Threads of India: Iconic Fabrics and How to Style Them

India’s diverse textile heritage reflects its cultural richness, with each state boasting unique weaves and embroideries. From the intricate Chikankari of Uttar Pradesh to the bold Ajrak prints of Gujarat, these fabrics shape some of the most stunning outfits in the country.

Let's look at India's most iconic traditional fabrics, each woven with history, culture, and craftsmanship.

Chikankari from Uttar Pradesh
Chikankari is an intricate hand embroidery style from Lucknow, often done on muslin, georgette, or chiffon. The fabric blends itself beautifully to various outfit styles, making it a favorite for both casual and festive wear.
Outfit Ideas:

·       Chikankari Kurtas: Choose pastels like baby pink, mint green, or ivory with delicate floral embroidery. Ideal for workwear or casual outings when paired with cigarette pants.

·       Chikankari Sarees: White or pastel shades with intricate paisley designs are a timeless choice. A subtle and graceful choice for formal events.

·       Chikankari Anarkalis: Soft hues like lavender or peach with all-over embroidery create an elegant look. Perfect for a soft, feminine look at festive gatherings.

Bandhani (Rajasthan and Gujarat)

Bandhani, or tie-dye, is a traditional fabric from Rajasthan and Gujarat available in vibrant patterns, and often seen in bright hues like red, yellow, and green. The fabric adds an instant splash of vibrancy and heritage, making it a staple for festive and everyday wear alike. These striking patterns make for versatile outfit choices, seamlessly blending tradition with contemporary fashion.

Outfit Ideas:

·       Bandhani Sarees: Best in bright colors like red, yellow, or pink with intricate white patterns. A classic choice for festive occasions, often paired with a mirror-work blouse.

·       Bandhani Dupattas: For a vibrant look, opt for deep greens or blues with contrasting tie-dye effects. These are perfect for enhancing a plain kurta-palazzo set.

·       Bandhani Lehengas: Works beautifully in rich maroons or oranges with mirror work accents. A great pick for weddings, offering a mix of tradition and vibrancy.

Brocade (Uttar Pradesh)

Banarasi brocade, woven with gold and silver threads, is a luxurious fabric associated with royal heritage. This fabric's regal look lends itself to outfits that are both opulent and statement-making.

Outfit Ideas:

·       Brocade Sarees: Ideal in royal shades like deep red, emerald green, or gold with heavy zari motifs. A staple in bridal trousseaus, best paired with a contrast blouse.

·       Brocade Blazers: Best in jewel tones like sapphire or ruby with intricate woven designs. A contemporary twist, perfect for Indo-western fusion.

·       Brocade Dupattas: Choose deep blue or bronze with metallic threadwork for a luxurious appeal. Adds richness when layered over a simple salwar suit.

Kanjivaram (Tamil Nadu)

Kanjivaram is rich texture and brilliant sheen make it ideal for both traditional and modern styling. Its rich texture and vibrant hues make it an ideal choice for elegant and striking ensembles.

Outfit Ideas:

·       Kanjivaram Sarees: Go for vibrant hues like magenta, mustard, or royal blue with heavy gold zari work. The ultimate wedding attire, often accessorized with temple jewelry.

·       Kanjivaram Skirts: Look stunning in bold shades like deep purple or fuchsia with temple motifs. A trendy fusion piece, to be paired with crop tops or kurtas.

·       Kanjivaram Blouses: Opt for bright shades like red or orange with contrasting golden detailing. A statement piece that pairs well with plain sarees or lehengas.

Weaves of Bengal (West Bengal)

Bengal is known for its fine handloom textiles, including Jamdani and Tant, which are lightweight and breathable. These fabrics offer a perfect blend of comfort and artistry, making them suitable for versatile styling choices.

Outfit Ideas:

·       Jamdani Sarees: Best in classic white with red or black floral weaving for a graceful appeal. An ethereal choice for cultural events or office wear.

·       Tant Kurtas: Choose airy colors like sky blue or lemon yellow with minimalistic patterns. A comfortable summer pick, often styled with jhumkas.

·       Handloom Dupattas: Work well in neutral shades like beige or grey with bold woven borders. Perfect for layering over Indo-western outfits.

Ajrak (Gujarat and Rajasthan)

Ajrak is a block-printing technique on natural fabrics using deep reds, indigos, and intricate geometric patterns. This craft’s earthy tones and bold designs create striking outfit combinations.

Outfit Ideas:

·       Ajrak Print Sarees: Opt for deep indigo, maroon, or black with intricate block-printed geometric designs. A timeless choice for those who appreciate artisanal textiles.

·       Ajrak Dupattas: Best in earthy tones like brown or dark green with traditional motifs. Enhances the elegance of a simple kurta or dress.

·       Ajrak Jackets: Choose navy blue or dark red with bold symmetrical patterns for a striking look. These make for a great fusion wear piece that pairs well with jeans or dresses.

Kantha (West Bengal)

Kantha is a form of embroidery from Bengal, featuring running stitches that create elaborate motifs. The intricate hand-stitched details make Kantha an elegant choice for versatile and artistic fashion pieces.

Outfit Ideas:

·       Kantha Stitch Sarees: Work well in muted pastels or earthy tones with vibrant hand-stitched motifs. A beautiful handcrafted piece for special occasions.

·       Kantha Jackets: Best in multi-colored patterns on a neutral base for a statement look. Ideal for layering over Western or ethnic outfits.

·       Kantha Embroidered Blouses: Opt for deep maroons or mustard with intricate Kantha stitches for a unique touch. A striking match for plain or silk sarees.

Pochampally Ikat (Telangana)

Pochampally Ikat is known for its intricate dyeing technique, creating geometric and abstract patterns on silk or cotton. The bold designs and vivid hues of Ikat make it a standout choice for contemporary fashion

Outfit Ideas:

·       Ikat Sarees: Best in bold black, red, or mustard hues with striking geometric patterns. A sophisticated choice for formal and semi-formal settings.

·       Ikat Kurtas: Choose dual-tone designs in shades like teal and white for a chic effect. A smart everyday wear option that blends tradition with modern cuts.

·       Ikat Blazers: Works well in navy or grey with crisp contrasting patterns for a professional yet stylish look. A unique take on power dressing.

Patola (Gujarat)

Patola silk is a double-ikat weave that turns every outfit into a masterpiece of design and tradition. Its intricate detailing ensures that Patola fabric transforms any outfit into a statement piece.

Outfit Ideas:

·       Patola Sarees: Ideal in bright shades like vermilion, blue, or green with symmetrical ikat designs. A regal and investment-worthy wardrobe piece.

·       Patola Dupattas: Opt for jewel tones like emerald or ruby with bold multicolored motifs. Elevates even the simplest of outfits.

·       Patola Kurtis: Looks great in rich hues with contrasting geometric prints. A striking choice for festive occasions.

Kalamkari (Andhra Pradesh and Telangana)

Kalamkari is an ancient hand-painted or block-printed fabric, often depicting mythological scenes. This fabric is an excellent choice for those who love storytelling through fashion.

Outfit Ideas:

·       Kalamkari Sarees: Best in earthy hues like beige, brown, or mustard with intricate hand-painted mythological designs. A storytelling piece perfect for art lovers.

·       Kalamkari Dupattas: Choose deep maroons or ochre with detailed motifs for an artistic appeal. Pairs well with a plain suit set for a chic look.

·       Kalamkari Skirts: Looks stunning in shades like rust orange or deep blue with storytelling prints. A bohemian outfit choice for casual occasions.

DesiQlo: The Best Destination for Inidan Textile Looks. 

Finding high-quality, Indian fabrics at the right price can be a challenge, but DesiQlo makes it effortless. Whether you’re looking for a regal Banarasi saree, a breezy Chikankari kurta, or a vibrant Bandhani lehenga, DesiQlo offers a curated selection of traditional weaves at budget-friendly prices. With a keen focus on craftsmanship and affordability, it’s the ultimate destination for anyone who appreciates India’s rich textile heritage without compromising on quality or cost. Elevate your wardrobe with DesiQlo’s exquisite collection and celebrate Indian craftsmanship with every outfit!