Embellished Sarees for Every Mood: Minimalism to Maximalism

The Rise of Embellished Sarees

Gone are the days when embellished sarees were reserved only for brides or moms at weddings. 2025 is all about democratising the glam, with embellished saree styles for every fashionista and every function.

From low-key luncheons to high-octane sangeets, embellished sarees are having a major moment. Bollywood divas like Deepika Padukone and Alia Bhatt have been spotted rocking everything from dainty mukaish work sarees to OTT sequinned numbers. And the #SareeNotSorry trend on Instagram is proof that millennial and Gen Z fashion lovers are embracing embellished sarees like never before.

How to Style Your Embellished Saree

The key to nailing an embellished saree look is balance. If your saree is heavy on embellishments, keep the accessories minimal. And if you're going for a subtly embellished saree, amp up the drama with statement jewellery and a bold lip.

Here are some foolproof styling tips:

• Pair a heavily embellished saree with a simple sleeveless blouse and delicate jewellery. Let the saree be the star.
• For a minimally embellished saree, go for a contrast blouse with intricate work or a unique neckline. Add chunky earrings and a sleek bun to complete the look.
• Experiment with unconventional drapes like the dhoti style or the butterfly pallu to give your embellished saree a modern twist.
• Mix and match embellishments for a playful vibe. Think a sequinned border with a zardozi pallu or a pearl-encrusted blouse with a mukaish work saree.

Maximalist Saree Options for Embellished Styles

If you're ready to go all out with your maximalist sarees, here are some styles to try:

• Stone Work Sarees: These maximalist sarees are encrusted with stones, crystals, and beads for a seriously glam look. Opt for a saree with a heavily embellished border and pallu for maximum impact.
• Zardozi Work Sarees: Zardozi is a type of heavy metal embroidery that uses gold and silver threads, pearls, and precious stones. A zardozi work maximalist saree is the epitome of opulence and is perfect for a royal wedding look.
• Sequinned Sarees: Go for all-out shimmer with a sequinned saree. Choose a saree with sequins all over or opt for a sequinned border or pallu for a more subdued look.
• Patchwork Sarees: Maximalist sarees, like patchwork sarees are a maximalist's dream, with a mix of fabrics, prints, and embellishments all in one saree. They're perfect for a bohemian-inspired look.

Styling Tips for Maximalist Sarees

Here are some tips to keep in mind when styling a maximalist embellished saree:

• Keep the accessories minimal and let the saree shine. Opt for simple studs or a delicate pendant necklace.
• Choose a simple blouse in a solid colour to balance out the heavy embellishments on the saree.
• Go for a sleek updo or a simple braid to keep the focus on the saree.
• Experiment with different drapes to add some variety to your look. Try a belted drape or a pinned pallu for a modern twist.

The Minimalist Saree Style

On the other end of the spectrum is the minimalist saree style. This style is all about understated elegance, clean lines, and subtle embellishments.

Minimalist sarees are perfect for daytime events, office wear, or any occasion where you want to look polished and put-together without going overboard. They're all about letting the fabric and the drape do the talking.

Embellished Saree Options in Minimalist Saree Style

If you're a minimalist at heart, here are some embellished or embroidered saree styles to try:

• Lace Work Sarees: Lace work sarees, with their delicate and feminine appeal, are perfect for a minimalist saree style, offering an elegant and refined look with understated charm. Opt for a saree with a lace border or a lace blouse for a touch of elegance.
• Lucknowi Chikankari Sarees: Chikankari is a type of white-on-white embroidery that originates from Lucknow. A chikankari saree is the epitome of understated luxury and is perfect for a summer wedding or a daytime event.
• Mukaish Work Sarees: Mukaish, a type of metallic embroidery that uses fine metal wires to create delicate floral or geometric patterns, is beautifully suited for a minimalist saree style. A mukaish work saree in a pastel shade offers a soft, elegant look, making it ideal for a minimalist bride.
• Satin-Embellished Sarees: A satin saree with a delicate embellished border or pallu is a great way to add a touch of glamour to a minimalist look. Opt for a saree in a muted colour like blush pink or champagne for a sophisticated vibe.