Sari has evolved into one of the most appealing and popular attires in South Asian fashion. The sari is unique in style, colour and individuality. It has a lot of variation. And it depends on us how the designers can translate an age-old traditional attire into a sari for the next generation. 

The modern-day women cherish and nurture tradition, but seldom have time to actually follow them. Despite it being one of the most glamorous of attires, maintenance is still an issue. Here I see a form of knit concept sari that is completely unencumbered and can easily begin to emulate into a draped sari, which women can easily wear in no time.

It is a combination of western gown and Asian sari, presented in a new and modern way, which appeal to the young-at-heart consumers the most. A knit concept sari is designed to a shaped and styled sari, minus the inconvenience, making it more manageable and comfortable; yet innovative, contemporary and classy. 

It is a way to embrace the evolution of the tradition by  deconstructing and then reconstructing the traditional look with a modern 'deshi' twist . And it becomes more innovative and experimental with variable lengths and neck-lined blouses and creative draping techniques in an unconventional manner.

Soft Grecian drapes have always inspired me.The intricate draping creates an ethereal feminine look. I have chosen the material very carefully, which should go with the flow of my inspiration. Very high quality and diversified knit fabrics have served this purpose. Keeping the deficiency of knit fabrics in mind, I've tried to manipulate the pattern of the sari with the deficiencies of knit fabrics in mind, and gave it a proper 'deshi' twist and also added simple and very subtle value additions here and there. Working with knit fabric is a challenge, as this kind of fabrics has never been used before as a sari. 

Our knitwear sector is a self-sufficient sector, supplying 90 percent of the knit fabric requirements, and a strong backward linkage facility. Therefore, as a designer, I am delighted to design with knit fabric. Moreover, the trend is all about slimming silhouette, and well-coordinated prints with contemporary accessories. 

The emphasis is now on accessibility, comfort, and practicality. The fusion of Eastern and Western fashion is typified through the perfectly pleated, neatly organised knit patterned sari. It has a lightweight feel  and is great for summer strolls, but most importantly, its soft, drapeable material adds a hint of sensuality, giving that natural show-stopper feel.

By Subhra Saha 

Technical Advisor, Shanto Mariam Foundation

Model: Arun Joly Thia

Photo: Safayate Hossain Rajib

Designer: Subhra Saha

Email: suhracouture@gmail.com