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Fashion trends may come and go, but the elegance and versatility of sarees never fade away. The six yards of cloth are not just a garment but a treasured possession that carries memories and emotions of generations. However, even the most cherished sarees may become old, tattered, or out of fashion with time. Discarding them can be heartbreaking, but hoarding them is not a practical solution. This is where the concept of DIY recycling comes into play. By repurposing and upcycling old sarees, you can not only give them a new lease on life but also create unique and personalised old saree gowns and sets that reflect your style
From converting an old silk saree into a long gown dress to making a trendy jacket out of a cotton saree, there is no limit to the possibilities for reusing sarees. You can transform your beloved sarees into kurta sets, dresses, anarkalis, gowns, and much more with imagination and effort. In this article, we bring nine creative and easy saree-to-dress DIY fashion ideas to turn your treasured possessions into fashionable and functional garments you will love.
9 creative ways to reuse an old saree
Get inspired to tap into your creativity with these nine fashionable ways to repurpose a pre-owned saree to dress or sets of your choice. Convert your old silk saree into long gown dresses or fashion a chic co-ord set – there are countless possibilities with these 9 innovative ideas to transform a saree into a dress.
1. Trendy kurti from an old saree
Looking for a way to breathe new life into your old sarees? Look no further than the trendy kurti! By transforming an old saree into a fashionable kurti, you can create a unique and eye-catching addition to your wardrobe. Start by selecting a saree that you no longer use but still love. Cut a large rectangle of fabric from the saree to create the kurti's body. Then, let your creativity run wild! Take measurements from an old kurti and use them to guide your cutting and stitching. You can experiment with different necklines, sleeve lengths, and hemlines to create a one-of-a-kind look. With some imagination, you can transform an old material into a stylish and sustainable addition to your wardrobe.
2. A super chic co-ord set from an old silk saree
Do you want to turn your old sarees into a chic and trendy co-ord set? It's easier than you might think! Cut the saree into two equal pieces – one for the top and one for the bottom. To create a coordinated look, try to match the patterns on both pieces as closely as possible. Now it's time to get creative! Use your cutting and sewing skills to turn the saree fabric into a stylish top and bottom. You can experiment with different styles, such as a crop top, high-waisted skirt, fitted blouse, and wide-leg pants. Add some extra flair with embellishments such as tassels, embroidery or sequins.
3. Anarkali dress from an old saree
If you are tired of your old saree taking up precious closet space but can't bring yourself to throw it away, turn it into an elegant anarkali dress. Begin by selecting a saree that speaks to you but is no longer in use. Cut the saree into two parts with a pair of sharp scissors - one for the top and one for the skirt. With some sewing magic, transform the top part into a beautiful anarkali style by adding a frill to the upper portion. You can also customise your anarkali by experimenting with different necklines, sleeve styles, and embellishments like embroidery, sequins, or lace. Many variations of old saree dress patterns are available online that can inspire you to create a unique and beautiful anarkali dress from a pre-loved saree.
4. Make it into a stylish cowl-draped dress
This simple DIY project transforms your old saree into a stunning cowl-draped dress. It's a quick and easy saree-to-dress idea to upgrade your saree and give it a new lease of life. Start by selecting a saree you no longer wear but can't bear to part with. Cut the saree in half, and drape one half over your shoulder, letting it fall your back. Take the other half of the saree and drape it across your front, creating a cowl neck effect. Secure the saree at the waist with a belt or fabric tie, and voila! You now have a stylish and trendy cowl-draped old saree dress that's perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple steps, you can turn your old saree into a fashionable and chic outfit that will turn heads.
5. Summer maxi dress from an old saree
Upcycle your old sarees by transforming them into a trendy and comfortable maxi dress for the summer season. Instead of letting your beloved sarees gather dust in your closet, please give them a new life with this DIY project. Start by selecting a light, breezy cotton saree and cutting it into a long maxi dress length. Plenty of dress patterns exist, but using an old saree pattern can be a great option to create a traditional but modern look that reflects your style. Add a pop of colour with bright embroidery or playful prints, or keep it simple and elegant with a solid colour and minimal detailing. This is the perfect way to breathe new life into your old sarees and create a stylish and sustainable summer wardrobe.
6. Kaftan top from an old chiffon or georgette saree
Kaftans are a timeless garment that exudes elegance and comfort, and what better way to use your old chiffon or georgette sarees than by turning them into stylish kaftan tops? With their loose and flowing design, kaftan tops are perfect for a casual day out or a beach getaway. All you need is your old saree and some basic sewing skills. You can experiment with different lengths and sleeve styles and add embellishments like tassels or beads for a more unique and personalised look. This DIY project gives your old saree a new life, saves you money, and adds to your fashion collection.
7. A heavy dupatta or a silk scarf
There's no need to spend a fortune on expensive silk scarfs and heavy dupattas when you can easily make them from your old sarees. Start by selecting a saree with a pattern or colour you love, and cut it to the desired size and shape. For a silk scarf, hem the edges and voila! Add some embellishments like tassels, embroidery or lace for a heavy dupatta for an expensive-looking finish. These scarves and dupattas can enhance your Anarkali suits or even pair them with Western outfits for an Indo-western fusion look. Let your creativity run wild and transform your old sarees into stylish accessories!
8. A classy brocade jacket
Revitalise your old saree by giving it a new life as a chic and elegant brocade jacket. Not only is the brocade jacket a current trend, but it is also versatile and can be paired with anything to create a timeless and sophisticated look. Transforming an old saree into a stunning brocade jacket is a project that requires expert tailoring, but the results are well worth the effort. With the right expertise, you can put your creativity to the test and experiment with various styles and shapes, from a fitted blazer to a loose-fitting jacket. Add embellishments or embroidery to your brocade jacket for a touch of elegance and personality, and create a unique garment that truly reflects your style and creativity.
9. Convert your old silk saree into a long gown dress
Transform your old silk saree into a stunning long gown dress that will turn heads on any occasion. The saree's vibrant colours, intricate designs, and luxurious fabric make it perfect for creating a one-of-a-kind old saree dress. To convert an old silk saree into a long gown dress, choose a saree that speaks to you and complements your skin tone. Cut the saree into several pieces, including the bodice, skirt, and sleeves. Use the existing blouse as a template for the bodice and customise it to fit you perfectly. Add a flared skirt to give this outfit a flowy silhouette. Finish off the dress with embellishments like lace, sequins, or beads to add a touch of glamour.
Old sarees need not be discarded or kept in storage indefinitely. With some creativity and basic sewing skills, they can be transformed into stylish and unique fashion pieces. From creating trendy brocade jackets to converting old silk sarees into long gown dresses, there are endless possibilities to give a new life to these pre-loved sarees. Following these eco-friendly ideas can reduce our carbon footprint and add a unique aesthetic to our wardrobe. So, next time you come across an old silk saree, don't think of it as outdated or useless but rather as a potential long gown dress or kaftan top waiting to be reimagined and repurposed.
Who thought you could convert your old silk saree into long gown dresses? We are here to teach you all about sustainability. Want to amp up your home decor? Why not try repurposing an old saree? Find inspiration on how to reuse your old saree for home décor and transform your living space. With intelligent styling in mind for 2023, click here to discover how to achieve maximum style and save money. And don't forget to check out our comprehensive guide, clothing care 101, for tips on increasing the lifespan of your favourite outfits. Take care of your clothes, and thank us later for the extra wear you'll get from them!
Photo: Instagram.com/priyankachopra