Fashion10 Jul 20244 MIN

Bespoke Banarasi silhouettes you’d want to bookmark for your trousseau

With hundreds of man-hours put behind crafting each piece, it’s no wonder that Ekaya Banaras' weaves are swoon-worthy delights

In collaboration with Ekaya Banaras

As children, we would watch as our mothers draped themselves in striking Banarasi sarees, with the delicate silk carrying tales of ancient looms and skilled artisans. Adorned with gold, a crimson bindi, and a soft sweep of kohl around the eyes, they layered tradition upon tradition with an elegance that seemed timeless. Today, as we embark on our own journeys, the yearning to recreate those cherished memories tugs at our hearts. Does it mean donning the same folds, the same adornments? Quite the contrary, in fact. For tradition is not stagnant; it thrives on evolution and adaptation. It beckons as a homage to our individuality—a bridge linking our past to the present, where we redefine heritage with every step forward.

Palak Shah, the founder of Ekaya Banaras, echoes this ethos through her label. Every thread loomed by the master craftspeople at her atelier breathes a new life into the sacred old weave of Banarasi, transforming it into a symbol of femininity and fierceness for women today.

Your 101 on this treasured textile

Nestled along the banks of the sacred Ganges, Varanasi, or Banaras as it’s affectionately called, has long been hailed as the beating heart of India’s textile heritage. Here, amidst narrow alleyways and ancient temples, artisans have woven tales of craftsmanship for centuries, none more revered than the artistry of Banarasi textiles.

Central to this art form is the kadhwa technique, where patterns are painstakingly woven into the fabric using small, hand-operated looms. Another distinct feature is the use of zari (fine gold or silver threads), adding a shimmering brilliance that is unmistakably regal. Each piece is identified by its elaborate motifs—florals, paisleys, and geometric patterns—meticulously woven into the fabric, often taking weeks or even months to complete.

While it may surely be preserved as cultural emblems, it has also found a coveted spot in high-fashion today. Ekaya Banaras stands at the forefront of this textile’s revival, reimagining quaint weaves for the modern era. Their reinterpretation of the Banarasi art—crafted in unique designs and sought-after shades—catapults these fabrics into the realm of couture without compromising their authenticity. Each creation, from a handwoven saree to an intricately crafted lehenga, bears the hallmarks of centuries-old craftsmanship married seamlessly with contemporary sensibilities.

Here, we delve into exclusive ensembles for the modern woman who seeks elegance with an edge.

One for the ages

Billowing sleeves, a flirtatious neck-line, and luxurious jewel toned elements. Have you ever seen a more striking rendition of the iconic Banarasi red? We think not. Featuring Jamawar weaving and detailed paisleys inspired by the kairi motifs present in kashmiri shawls, this handcrafted silk lehenga is great to bring in a sense of avant-garde personality to your bridal trousseau. Pair it with minimal polkis to let the lehenga's craftsmanship shine, or couple it with layered accessories for a more dramatic flair. Especially if you’re one for walking the experimental path, consider this your ultimate sartorial ally.

Ekaya Banaras

Six yards of barbiecore? Yes please

The global obsession with pink has been unreal—whether it be Valentino’s signature colour or Margot Robbie’s barbie character. But the key to ensuring that fleeting trends find a lasting use in your wardrobe is getting your hands on silhouettes that are time-honoured. Case in point: sarees. With uncountable ways to drape them, sarees embody a styling prowess like no other. And this tissue silk saree in particular is an ode to petit point embroidery. It uses distinctive techniques of Banaras like cutwork and multi-meenakari, and the white pearl embellishments give it a romantic flair. The scalloped border, the colour, the craft—all make it the perfect choice of attire for acing the soft-girl aesthetic, especially if you’re getting ready for a summer soiree.

Ekaya Banaras

For when the sun sets

Bridesmaids, unite! For this is just the piece to leave everyone in awe at a cocktail party. Do away with the same-old sequins and instead take this lehenga out for a twirl. The bralette blouse is subtle, sexy, and supremely high on fashion. But what truly sets it apart? Its incredible versatility. Picture pairing it with brocade co-ords, or daringly juxtaposing it with boyfriend jeans and a crisp white shirt for a chic, unconventional look. The possibilities are transcendental. Amp up the glamour with body jewellery and see yourself becoming the ultimate showstopper of the evening.

Ekaya Banaras

One for the bride, one for the mother

There’s something perennially charming about matching your style with your mum and making a sartorial statement, side-by-side. These handwoven silk sarees have an inherent fluidity and sheen, and the contrasting meenakari details adds to its inimitable grace. Gift one to your mother, keep one for yourself, and wear it together at a pre-wedding puja and watch as others marvel over the craftsmanship and the bond you share. Want to give a novel spin to this classic number? Opt for a contemporary-cut blouse, wear your hair sleek, and pair your saree with natural diamonds.

Ekaya Banaras

Past forward

Pastels are the highlight of the hour, but eternal are the colours that speak of heritage and culture. Whether it’s the rich red that connects you with your roots or the luxurious green that you envision as part of your legacy, these sarees are heirloom-worthy treasures sure to leave a lasting impression. Our suggestion? Wear it on the morning after your wedding and embrace tradition in a way that’s personal to you, symbolising the first day of your new life with a nod to the past and a step into the future.