The Offbeat Sari

"I think the sari is a really interesting canvas through which to explore where India is at in terms of cultural trends, the role of women and issues like climate change, identity and gender". Priya Khanchandani

 

To the Design Museum to see this exhibition - The Offbeat Sari which contains over 60 examples of saris in which the conventional single piece of unstitched fabric has been adapted in drape and form over the years. As a garment the sari declined in popularity in India as it became associated with being very formal, restrictive and with domesticity. Lately however, there has been a resurgence of interest in the sari reinventing it and adapting it for 21st century living by young designers. This in turn has created a new audience for the garment in the younger generation. There is a denim version of a sari here as well as another which features sequins sequins cut from disused X-ray images salvaged from hospital waste. Interestingly the Movement section of this show contains saris worn by young people who engage in sports such as cricket and skateboarding to display the saris versatility. Other saris on display are created with a social conscience in mind. Some protest domestic violence, whilst another is adorned with storks to highlight the need to protect India's dwindling stork population. A personal highlight of the exhibition was seeing the first ever sari worn at the Met Gala in 2022 designed by Sabyasachi and styled with an amazingly dramatic gold metal Schiaparelli bodice. There are other good examples of draping and embroidery which should captivate anybody with an interest in fashion. The last section of the exhibition looks at production techniques and how and from what materials saris are made. Beautifully presented, it investigates the threads, weaving, print and embroidery methods utilised for these garments.

The Offbeat Sari

until 17th September

Design Museum

224-238 Kensington High Street
London 

W8 6AG