Fashion

 

The blouse accompanying a saree goes by various names in the diverse cultures and regions of India. In the northern parts, it is commonly referred to as a "choli," in South India as "Ravikein," and in Nepal as "cholo," among others.

By the 1940s, Indian cinema was flourishing. Soon after, silver screen icons such as Vaijyanti Mala, Nutan, Nargis, and Meena Kumari, who wore long-sleeved blouses, became style influencers of their generation. Their outfit style introduced the current saree blouse.

Designing a blouse involves several considerations. It is a uniquely personalized and bespoke garment that holds significant importance for brides, especially during weddings. Each bride meticulously designs her blouse, taking into account factors such as her body shape, facial features, the saree's color, and sometimes even the wedding theme. Some brides showcase innovation by incorporating their love story into the blouse design, narrating it through embroidery, and even featuring their spouse's name.