BEAUTIFUL DRAPE : July Edition

Kanakavalli's July pick for The Beautiful Drape is a gorgeous silk sari from the Vault collective of heirloom kanjivarams that are exclusive to the brand.

Our featured kanjivaram for the month showcases some of the most classic and beloved motifs and patterns of the craft. The sari's body is dotted with delicate kamalam or lotus buttis in gold zari, lending a delightful geometry to the drape. The borders have classic moplah lines woven in a contrast hue framed and framed by a row of bhugodi triangles in gold zari. Rows of gold mutthu seeru and vanki designs, inspired by the armlets of South India, enclose jadai nagam patterns that resemble a traditional hair ornament, woven here in coloured silken yarn. The central band of the border is embellished with mayil kann motifs, also woven in thread. The pallu features the same designs as the borders, with a row of elephants in coloured yarn and a twill band in gold zari.

The exquisite ornamentation of the drape is emphasised by the interplay of colour and zari, the use of contrasting silken yarn amid shimmering gold adding drama to the sumptuous silk. The richness of the kanjivaram's heritage, deeply rooted in the culture of South India, is evident in the embellishment of this sari, with its motifs drawn from the flora, fauna and traditional jewels of the region. If you would like to know more about the forms that adorn the queen of silks, don't forget to explore our Varna Sutra series on the blog that delves into the symbolism of the kanjivaram's motifs and colours.

The Beautiful Drape this month, available in several striking colourways, features zari with a composition of 35% silver and 0.4% gold.