Nestled within the intricate fabric of Indian culture and tradition, the art of saree draping stands as a timeless emblem of elegance and grace. Parul Jani, a master of this craft, epitomises the essence of this tradition. With her skilled hands and meticulous attention to detail, she breathes life into yards of cloth, transforming them into captivating ensembles that exude sophistication and cultural resonance. In a recent interview with Asian Voice, she delves into her illustrious career, shedding light on the rising popularity of saree draping among celebrities and the favoured draping styles embraced by brides.
Can you share some insights into your journey as a saree draping artist?
Growing up in a Gujarati Indian family, sarees were a cherished part of my upbringing. Learning the art of saree draping from my skilled aunt, who was like a second mother to me, I carried this tradition with me to London when I moved there in the late 80s or early 90s.
Over time, my knack for flawlessly draping sarees earned me a reputation among friends and family. This led to playful suggestions about turning my talent into a business, which I eventually acted upon.
Upon honing my skills during a trip to India, I officially launched my saree draping services in London. The clients who request my services are of different ages and do so for a variety of events. One of my focuses lies in working with brides and their families, enhancing their wedding day look by collaborating with specialised beauticians.
When I attend saree draping appointments, my passion lies in working with brides and their families, who are the focal point of wedding celebrations. Collaborating with beauticians who specialise in hair and makeup, I enhance the overall bridal look by ensuring the saree complements their style seamlessly. These collaborations have proven mutually beneficial, as we refer clients to one another, fostering a supportive network within the industry.
Some of these beauticians have connections in India, which has opened doors to new opportunities. For instance, when I draped sarees for my first celebrity client, they were referred to me by one of these beauticians. Once you establish yourself in this niche, word-of-mouth referrals become a powerful tool for expanding your clientele.
How do you view the recent resurgence of saree popularity among celebrities and in mainstream media, and its impact on preserving traditional Indian attire?
There was a period where sarees seemed to be losing popularity, particularly in the 90s and early 2000s, as many celebrities opted for Western attire even at Indian functions. However, a notable trend reversal has emerged in recent years. Indian celebrities are now donning sarees even when attending events in Western countries, signalling a resurgence in the saree's popularity.
This shift is evident not only in celebrity circles but also in mainstream media, where actresses are showcasing sarees flawlessly in films. The trend is gradually shifting back towards embracing traditional Indian attire, with sarees reclaiming their status as a symbol of elegance and cultural heritage. It's a trend that I am immensely proud to witness and be a part of, as more and more celebrities choose to embrace the timeless beauty of the saree.
What advice do you have for brides in selecting the perfect saree and draping style? Are there any popular draping styles for our techniques commonly chosen for weddings?
A key tip I always offer brides when they ask for advice is while choosing a saree or lehenga, opt for one with a border that isn't too wide, as this can cause the fabric to drop off the shoulder, creating a bulky appearance.
In terms of popular draping styles, two have emerged as favourites among brides: the loose pallu draped over one shoulder, offering a blend of traditional and modern aesthetics, and the neatly pleated style that keeps everything streamlined while showcasing intricate work on the saree. These styles offer both elegance and practicality, making them increasingly popular choices for brides.
Finally, what do you find most rewarding about your work as a saree draping artist, especially in the context of, you know, celebrity events and weddings?
The greatest reward for me in draping sarees for celebrity events or weddings is the satisfaction of seeing my clients' joy and confidence in their attire. When celebrities' fans and attendees compliment the saree draping, remarking on how beautifully it's done or how amazing it looks, it affirms the skill and effort I've put into my work.
Similarly, when clients return to me after an event and share feedback about how their saree garnered praise from everyone, especially when they mention how comfortable and secure it felt throughout the day, it's immensely gratifying. Knowing that I've contributed to their happiness and comfort on such important occasions is truly rewarding and motivates me to continue delivering exceptional service.
Instagram Page: parulssareedraping
