Reuse old silk sarees: Transform them into lehengas, shrugs or jackets to enjoy them creatively

Have a trunk full of your mom’s old silk sarees or your old wedding sarees that you find are too old-fashioned to wear to weddings or during festivals anymore? If you don’t know what to do with your old silk sarees but can’t throw them out because of the sentimental memories attached to them, you can turn them into something pretty and contemporary and continue to enjoy them.

Whether it is a long skirt or a short jacket, upcycled silk sarees can add a regal touch to your outfit and make heads turn. Here are some creative ideas to make the most of your treasured silk sarees.

• Transform it into a lehenga or skirt

Give your mom’s silk sarees a new life by converting them into a lehenga or long skirt. This fresh and versatile style is perfect for weddings, festive occasions, or even as a statement piece for special gatherings.

How to style: Work with a tailor to create a floor-length skirt or lehenga from the saree’s main fabric. Pair it with a matching or contrasting blouse and a dupatta to achieve an elegant fusion look. You can keep the borders intact to retain the traditional essence or add embellishments for a modern twist.

Also read | Saree tips for short girls: Choose lightweight fabrics and well-fitted blouses to rock the ethnic look

• Create a chic dupatta from the saree

Turn it into a luxurious dupatta, adding a rich, traditional touch to your outfits. This option is especially practical and will keep intact the beautiful colours or intricate designs of the original saree.

How to style: Pair your silk dupatta with an anarkali, a plain salwar suit, or even a simple kurta and leggings for a regal, balanced look. You can also drape it over your shoulder as a shawl for a more formal event.

• Craft it into a kurta or blouse

Repurpose a silk saree into a kurta or blouse to add a sophisticated touch to your wardrobe. You will get more wear this way from the saree.

How to style: Create a knee-length kurta for a classic look or design a crop top or blouse for a more contemporary outfit. You can pair the blouse with jeans, trousers, or a matching saree for a fusion look that blends traditional elegance with modern style.

• Make it into a scarf or stole

Turn an old silk saree into a scarf or stole. This is a subtle way to incorporate traditional fabric into your everyday look. This option is versatile and works well with both Indian and Western wear.

How to style: Simply drape the silk scarf over a kurta set or wrap it around a Western outfit for a pop of colour and elegance. A scarf made from silk saree fabric can add warmth and style to winter outfits, as well as act as a standout accessory for summer looks.

Also read | Try these saree-blouse colour combos for a modern, festive look

• Create saree-inspired gowns or dresses

If you have a trusted tailor, you can even turn your silk saree into a gown or a long dress that you can wear for cocktail parties or evening events. This style allows you to enjoy the elegance of silk while exploring a modern, unique silhouette.

How to style: Have the saree tailored into a floor-length gown with a fitted bodice or a wrap dress style. Keep elements like the pallu or use the borders for detailing around the neckline and sleeves. Pair with minimal jewellery to let the dress speak for itself.

• Design home decor accents

Old silk sarees with stunning patterns and intricate designs can be turned to home decor items like cushion covers or table runners, even wall art. This will allow you to display the beauty of the saree beyond your wardrobe.

How to style: Use saree fabric to create cushion covers, table runners, or wall art. This will give your home an elegant, cultural touch and ensure that the saree continues to be appreciated in a new form.

• Upcycle it into a jacket or shrug

A jacket or shrug made from a silk saree can make any outfit more glamorous, whether it’s a saree, salwar suit, or even jeans and a top.

How to style: Have a short jacket or long shrug made from your saree fabric, keeping the borders and details intact. Pair it with plain outfits to let the jacket stand out or layer it over a matching ensemble for a more coordinated look.

• Turn it into a saree skirt with a twist

Creating a skirt with a wraparound style, inspired by saree draping, is a great way to keep the traditional feel of the saree while making it easier to wear.

How to style: Work with a tailor to craft a wrap-style skirt that mimics the drape of a saree. Pair it with a plain top or a crop blouse, adding a belt or a stole for extra style.