We're Baaack, But Now We Have To Go

Kinda, Sorta Back

Well, we're back, and sick!?!  What happened? We go on a GREAT vacation and bring back a lousy cold.  At least we had a good time.  So, unfortunately, our little break has to be extended until we're better. Sigh :-( Back to bed with a lot of orange juice.

On Hiatus

Time Off

Well, we got a lot of things going on for the next two weeks and decided to take a break from posting.  Hey, too much is happening right now: an office move, new semester, and vacation, all in no particular order. So, what does this mean? We will be on a break until August 28.  

Until then have a great time until we get back, hopefully with original content!!! And if you really need a saree fix, please visit the sites we have links to.

See ya August 28!

Half and Half Saree

Think Kerala With Colour

Yep, the above title pretty much explains what is a half and half saree.  The last post described the Kerala Saree, and that is what it is, but with a large dose of colour.  Instead of cream and white, you got a lot of colours going on.  

Ummmm, how many times can we repeat ourselves?  

Anyhow, the half and half is worn mainly on the east side of India and the Kerala is worn on the southwest side. And, I'm pretty sure the lehnga choli is worn everywhere else. Okay, I was being sarcastic on the last part.

As expected, there is a large amount of pictures and videos online of half and half sarees, and be sure to check out everyone's favorite station, YouTube for wearing tutorials.

So, if you want the saree look without worrying over the lengths of fabric, go ahead and try the half and half, besides, it is a stepping stone to the saree.

Mundum Neryathum

 The Kerala Saree 

The mundu neryathum is traditionally white or cream in colour and consists of two pieces of cloth, which have a coloured strip at the border. The piece of cloth that drapes the lower garment is called the mundu. The piece of cloth that is worn as the upper garment is called the neriyathu. The neriyathu is worn over a blouse diagonally from along the right hips to the left shoulder and across the midriff, partly baring it. The remaining loose end of the neriyathu is left hanging from the left shoulder resembling the ‘nivi saree’. (source)

So, my questions are: Why not wear a saree or a ghagra choli? Aren't they basically the same? A simplified answer is this: the Kerala saree is the regional dress of southwest region of India, and every region has/had evolved their own version to fit their needs.  Isn't that the beauty of India in itself?

P.S.: Sorry about the absence of Wednesday's post! We were out sick, and now we're baaaack!

Peacock + Sarees = Stunning

Blues, Greens and Golds

Ahhh, the peacock, a bird admired/envied for its display and historical significance to India, hey, who can blame them for choosing it as their national bird. The male is breathtaking when those eyed feathers are put on display, and the iridescence makes it even more impressive. Don't believe us? Compare a "normal" coloured peacock to a white one and see which one is more impressive-that's all subjective because the white peacocks are just as breathtaking in themselves-but that's another story.

True the sarees are shades of those colours, but what makes them peacock, besides the colour,  and motifs? To put it simply, it's the combination of those colours that gives the saree that touch of charm, and a little bit extra with gold and silver.

 

Sonia Jetleey Saree