Theme Thursday: Clothes

Sari display

Mannequins displaying the lush fabrics outside an Indian cloth merchant at Brickfields, one of many Little Indias in Kuala Lumpur.

The words Sari is derived from the Sanskrit language 'Sati' meaning strip of cloth, later evolving to the Prakrit word 'sadi' and finally into its present form. It has been recorded in the Vedas and dated to over 5000 years of Indian history. The Sari is an Indian style wrap around that is good for any occasion. From the simple cotton cloth design worn by the poor to the elaborate gold lined and richly designed dresses worn by the rich, the Sari is as much a part of the Indian culture as an attire worn by all, found in daily life, cultural performances, weddings, religious rites and death. A single piece of cloth that is wrapped, tucked and draped over the female form yet brings out allure, form, passion and functionality. Styles differ from the different parts of India and have evolved as the communities emigrate away from their homeland. The sari is commonly seem worn by the Indian community in Malaysia and has even been embraced by the other races. Constant innovation has seen an evolution of the design, cut, colouring and styles thus keeping the sari up to the mainstream and helped popularizing its usage.

See also:
How to wear a Sari
Wikipedia: Sari

New ideas

A modern and contemporary look yet keeping with the essence and feel of the Sari is seen in the design of these Sari clothes and dresses, display outside a shop along Kimberly Street, Penang.