Fusion notes

The mystique of the multi-yard sari has remained indisputable for decades no matter which way the fashion wind whirls. And today's fashion-conscious women with a penchant for the past are turning to the desi attire to explore new frontiers in creativity.

The trend towards snug fitting blouses with innovative necklines has given sari a smart edge in recent times. And designers are all out to create beautiful blouses that perk up the traditional attire. Quite naturally, even youngsters smitten by Western styles are attracted to it. Take a look at the exclusive collection of blouses designed by Bangalore-based Purvi Patel to be unravelled at Ushas' "The Choli" show (16, 3rd Street, Dr. Thirumurthi Nagar, Nungambakkam, phone 8254035) for instance. With dramatic cuts and traditional craftsmanship, the blouses strike a contemporary fusion note in fashion.

Brilliant blues, crimson blushes and electric greens... the colours are rich and the fabrics, ethnic. What strikes one instantly about Purvi's cholis is the ingenuity of workmanship. Rabari Bharat, maina, aari bharat, sado tako... check out the deft craftsmanship. The cotton or cotton-blended fabrics are enhanced by a liberal use of agarakh (resist prints), bandhej, anjar, dhamadka or vegetable-dye works.

Mix and match or mix and mismatch, the blouses are sure to enliven even dull saris. The choli show was a "runaway success" in Bangalore. And this spurred Purvi to visit Chennai with her maiden exhibition. Fine blend of colours, clean cuts, intricate embroidery and most importantly, a stamp of individuality... that's the essence of the designer's creations inspired by the folk traditions of Gujarat. Purvi also designs ethnic salwar suits, samples of which she will bring to Chennai, for those wishing to place orders.

Prior to "The Choli" which is scheduled for November 5 to 7 (inaugural by Suhasini Maniratnam), Ushas has got up an exhibition of ethnic jewellery by Mumbai's Usha Corals from November 1 to 3. Silver-based with a gold veneer, the jewellery is embellished with precious stones and corals. Kundan, Minakari... the designs smack of tradition. There is also an assortment of corals that can be bought loose and strung together according to one's fancy.

All this, besides the regular stock of ethnic saris... from Kanchi to Kolkata.

T. KRITHIKA REDDY

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