Traditionally worn all over South India, the half Saree is known by different names in each of the southern Indian states. It is called Langa Voni in Telegu, Langa Davani in Kannada, and the Pattu Pavadai Daavani in Tamil. A variation of the Half Saree is seen in the Mekhla of the north-eastern state of Assam.
Despite newer and more modern trends coming into fashion, the Half Saree continues to be in fashion. Actresses like Shriya Sharan have particularly used the half and half sari to flaunt the look of a simple south Indian beauty. Today, the trend of the half saree is catching on fast in other parts of India too, thanks to the latest Bollywood blockbuster- ‘Chennai Express’. The simple elegance of Deepika Padukone’s half sari designed by Manish Malhotra has got many women all over India wanting to try these themselves.
Part of the credit of making Half Sarees fashionable goes to Bollywood divas like Sridevi who wore it at the premiere of her comeback film- ‘English Vinglish’. Her beautifully embroidered half sari designed by Sabyasachi Mukherjee made her the toast of every fashion critic. Designer half sarees are now experimenting with different fusion patterns of the Pavadai Daavani to style our Indian Divas.
You can purchase a half-sari in uni-color, bicolor, or even a multi-color pattern. These sarees can have several fabric combinations such as a half georgette and half net with embroidery, a half Chanderi, and a half –Chiffon combination, that is, only the pallu in chiffon. Half Cotton sarees are the most suitable if you are buying something for regular use in summer.
If you need to have some artwork done, there are endless options available where half-saris go. Those with net pallus are generally enhanced with Kundan, Zardosi, or cutwork applique. Broad or narrow borders in stonework, embroidery is easily available today. Patchwork designs are there for the asking on a wide range of materials including chiffon, georgette, crepe, and much more.
Half and Half Sarees are ideal for any occasion, be it a cultural occasion, college function, a festival, a wedding ceremony, or much more. These designer half sarees can be worn in either Siddha or Ulta pallu style. You can finely arrange the sari in several thin pleats or even wear it in a single pleat fashion.
These saris can suit any woman, whatever be her complexion, age, or stature. Depending on the occasion you plan to attend, choose the right accessories. Use minimal accessories such as a pendant with a simple chain and small earrings if wearing something ornate. Of course, a wedding will demand a bouffant hairdo and heavy jewelry in keeping with the occasion. Otherwise, wear glass bangles or some metal costume jewelry with a simple cotton half sari.