Janhvi Kapoor paired her Korvai Kanjeevaram sari with gold temple jewellery

The sari has proven itself an enduring style staple in Janhvi Kapoor’s wardrobe. Sometimes, it’s an of-the-moment concept sari gown laden with sequins, glass beads, and crystals. Else, the drape is wispy with lots of floral prints as she steps out for casual and professional appointments. Then there are her classic silks — from Kanjeevarams to Korvais. Cue: the ivory sari she wore to celebrate Vishu and Puthandu recently.

To celebrate the Malayali and Tamilian New Year, the actor wore her cultural heritage on her sleeve (quite literally) with a beige-and-gold-bordered ivory Korvai sari.

Korvai is a weaving technique that adds a stately touch to the Kanjeevaram sari. The word translates to “to bind together” in Tamil — aptly so, as the age-old textile craft involves weaving the body and border of the drape separately before threading them together. The border is often woven in zari and resham threads (in a shade different from the canvas) to create various designs. The motifs in Korvai — rows of triangles — borrow inspiration from the gopuram, the monumental and ornate domes of temples in South India. The resulting confluence of contrasts, colours, and motifs makes every Korvai silk sari a piece of art.

Though Kapoor wore a humble, cap-sleeved blouse with a delicate gold border, she indulged generously with accessories. Her prized Kanjeevaram silk served as a backdrop for some elaborate temple jewellery, which included a pair of gold-and-pearl-encrusted jhumkas, a statement necklace layered with a delicate chain, and a large stack of kadas. The pièce de resistance that belted the traditional look securely in place was the kamarbandh embossed with depictions of gods and goddesses. Defined by sacred sentiment, temple jewellery pieces seem to have evolved into modern-day mainstays in festive wardrobes.

There’s a reason why Kapoor repeatedly returns to classic saris and jewellery. If styled smartly, nothing transcends trends, occasions, and seasons like a six-yard silk. Which other attire could help you slay daytime pheras and a late-evening party with the same nonchalance?

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