Nadiya Design Studio’s debut sari collection is a nod to minimalism and subtle embroidery

While heavily embroidered Kanjivaram saris with oodles of zari work are often seen as the norm for occasion-wear, Coimbatore-based designers Supriya Manokaran and Anitha Krishnan are shaking up traditional aesthetics this Diwali. The founders of Nadiya Design Studio tell us that the millennial woman is looking for easy-to-wear apparel that use breathable fabrics. “This generation is all about keeping things minimal,” says Supriya. Aspiring to create a contemporary line with ethnic aesthetics, the three-year-old design label launched its first collection of drapes last week featuring light-weight silk saris with bespoke blouses alongside a casual prêt-a-porter line.

The sari collection which has minimal surface ornamentation and embroidery uses a mix of soft silk fabric like chiffon, chanderi and jute, and comes in a jewelled tone palette perfect for the Autumn/Winter season. While, with names like sapphire, ruby, citrine, amethyst and garnet, these royal-hued saris are regal, the designer duo add their signature touch with detailed custom-made blouses. Look for their vintage flare-sleeved blouse, brocade blouse with fringe detailing, the multi-coloured jacket styled embroidered blouse among others. “We offset the minimalism on the sari with the detail that goes into the blouses,” Supriya says. “A good blouse can elevate the simplest sari and give it a classy overhaul,” chimes in Anitha.

Apart from their ethnic collection, buyers can also look forward to their ready-to-wear Western line that include crop tops, palazzos, A-line dresses and dresses with asymmetrical hemlines. Unlike the sari line, the colour palette features warm shades of orange, maroon, with neutral shades of grey and ivory. 

Saris start at Rs 5,000 and casual wear at Rs 1,300 onwards. Details: 9994940087