Sonali Bendre’s Patola sari came alive with stacked kadas and a parandi braid

In rani pink silk scattered with emerald and turquoise motifs, Sonali Bendre’s latest sari is unmistakably Patola; the double ikat weave from Gujarat, known for its complexity and time-intensive process. Silk threads are first dyed with natural colours and then woven together to create intricate patterns. The double ikat process ensures that patterns appear identical on both sides of the fabric.

The custom Jigya.M drape illustrates the technique’s indelible geometric motifs in a riot of jewel tones, running the gamut of emerald greens, royal blues and vibrant yellows across the silk canvas with mathematical precision. The sari was bordered with antique gold sequins and finished with kiran edging on the pallu.

The Patola craft traces back to the 11^th century, when a cluster of weavers from the Salvi community moved to Patan, Gujarat, under the Solanki Dynasty. Made with resist tie-dyeing process, it takes three people approximately four to seven months to weave a patola. They are characterised by abstract designs and geometric patterns, from elephants, human figures, to flowers and parrots as well as designs inspired by the architecture of Gujarat.

Bendre’s sari was paired with a plain blouse, allowing the weave to remain central. Her jewellery, however, leaned into traditional craft: Kundan earrings with kaan phool, a statement ring, and stacked kadas from Tribe Amrapali and Curio Cottage. Her braid was tied with a parandi and decorated with gold hair ornaments, a styling detail often seen in Gujarati weddings and festive looks. Minimal makeup completed the ensemble, situating the handloom and its history at the forefront.