There’s a new pairing taking over wedding wardrobes, and it’s not just pastels and haath phools. The saree-and-jacket trend is officially having its moment. What began as a red-carpet experiment has now evolved into one of the most stylish (and practical) ways to update traditional wear. From cropped denim blazers to soft floral jackets, our favourite celebrities are giving the classic drape a twist, and we love it. Here’s how five leading ladies are showing us how to layer it right, and their style cues are totally worth stealing.
Sonam Kapoor Ahuja
No one layers quite like Sonam Kapoor Ahuja. She turned one of Ritu Kumar’s 2023 couture collection saree into a masterclass in proportion and texture. Her featherlight silk chinon sari featured a jamawar print so fine it could’ve been painted on, paired not with a blouse, but with a printed silk shirt complete with bishop sleeves and a high collar. Over this chic ensemble, she wore a velvet angarkha-style jacket called Imran, embroidered with twisted zari. Ever the stylistic innovator, Sonam draped her pallu around the waist, letting the jacket take centre stage.
Sharvari
At Sabyasachi’s 25th anniversary show, Sharvari Wagh arrived looking like she’d stepped out of a noir dream. Her black tulle sari shimmered with sequins and threadwork in delicate foliage motifs, but the real magic was her blouse: a cropped, blazer-inspired jacket made from upcycled denim, embroidered with Sabyasachi’s archival handiwork. It was a true, modern tribute to Indian craftsmanship, and had the right kind of contrast in spades. She kept her makeup simple, choosing to leave her pinned hair in waves and accessorising with just drop earrings.
Bhumi Pednekar
Bhumi Pednekar isn’t one for minimalism, and thank god for that. Her chintz silk organza sari by Torani was the perfect base for some serious jewellery drama. The print saree is perfect for day weddings, and you can pair it with diamonds (maybe not as elaborate as Pednekar, who wore a Pluie de Cartier necklace crafted in 18k white gold, set with 474 brilliant-cut diamonds). Add to that the brand’s iconic Baignoire watch, enamel earrings from Tiramisu, and a bracelet from Sanzany Jewels, and you have a look that’s unapologetically maximalist. For wedding guests looking to go full glam, Bhumi’s formula is simple: delicate drape and heavyweight diamonds.
Diana Penty
Instead of going Delhi-level glam, Diana Penty shows us what a linen-loving demure bridesmaid could wear to a wedding. In Paris, she wore a tone-on-tone look from Mati by Fatima K. Punjabi: a handspun linen sari, matching bodysuit, belt, and trench jacket, all in soft, earthy hues. The biodegradable fabric, breezy silhouette, and travel-ready styling made this an instant standout for the modern, on-the-go wedding guest. Her look actually proves that you don’t need embroidery or big jewels to make an impact.
Karisma Kapoor
Trust Karisma Kapoor to remind us that timeless always wins. The actor went for a Raw Mango red sari paired with a cream long jacket from the same label. This simple pairing is one for the moodboard, and works perfectly for all the winter weddings you’re slated to attend. She finished it with heirloom-worthy jewellery, a gold clutch, and her signature polished makeup: bold red lips, a wash of shimmer, and a sleek ponytail.