#floral saris

[kaalbela]

Kantha (Bengali: কাঁথা) is a form of embroidery originating in Bengal region, i.e. Bangladesh and the Indian states of West Bengal, Tripura and parts of Assam. It has its roots in nakshi kantha, an ancient practice among bengali women of making quilts from old saris and rags by sewing them together. In modern usage, kantha generally refers to the specific type of stitch used. The kantha needlework is distinct and recognised for its delicacy. The stitching on the cloth gives it a slightly wrinkled, wavy effect. Today, kantha embroidery can be found on all types of garments as well as household items like pillowcases, bags and cushions.

While it is an increasingly diversifying art form, traditional kantha embroidery motifs are still sought after. Traditional kantha embroidery is two-dimensional and are usually of two distinct types: geometric forms with a central focal point, carried over from the nakshi kantha tradition and influenced by islamic art forms; and more fluid plant, floral, animal and rural motifs with stick-figure humans depicting folklores and rural life in Bengal.

1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 | textile series

[biorust-art]

These two just intrigue me.

gift for @luddlestons for keeping the graystorm brain worms alive <3

fun fact Ashton's redesigned pants are based off of my cosplay of him.

[Image Description. A redrawn meme of two guys standing in an elevator, one in a suit and the other in revealing punk gear. Dorian Storm and Ashton Greymoore from Critical Role have been drawn in place of the meme. Dorian wears a blue suit with a sari acting as pants. there is floral lace on the suit and a gold trim on the sari. He side-eyes Ashton, who is in patched up red pants similar to their first campaign outfit and a mesh shirt. Ashton is the one taking a selfie in an elevator mirror and he is also flipping off the camera with a grimace on their face. The elevator is also redrawn and colored to match the figures. As a little easter egg, the elevator says 'hell' in the background. END ID]

[not-your-asian-fantasy]

The Juggernaut

Barbie’s new Diwali doll has sold out in less than four days.

The $40 doll by Indian fashion designer Anita Dongre came out October 4. Though Barbie has released “Indian” dolls before, this is its first Diwali Barbie.

“In a continued commitment to promoting celebrations of heritage, Barbie is unveiling its first Barbie Diwali doll,” Mattel wrote in a news release. “The Barbie Diwali doll celebrates India’s cultural richness with a worldwide audience.”

Diwali Barbie sports a dark blue Anita Dongre lehenga, golden bangles and jhumka, high heels, and a ponytail. She has no backstory.

Dongre told USA Today that designing the look took over a year. She first envisioned the doll having several outfits. “I wanted to have an entire collection,” she told USA Today. “Should it be a lehenga? Should it be a sari? Should it be a sharara? There’s so much one can do. Indian fashion is just so versatile.”

“This Moonlight Bloom look features a choli top, floral koti vest, and lehenga skirt lush with dahlias, jasmine, and Indian lotus, representing strength and beauty,” Mattel’s site reads. Though note: “The doll comes with a stand…Doll cannot stand alone.”

Last year, American Girl also got in on the Indian American market, America’s fastest-growing and richest demographic. It launched Kavi, a doll who loves Broadway, has a Western and Indian wardrobe, and celebrates Diwali and Holi.

Despite its 2023 blockbuster movie, #Barbie has long faced flak for shaping perceptions of what women should look like.

In 1996, Mattel created its first melanated doll for Indians. She had the same physique as white Barbie and wore a bindi. Yet, the box labeled her pink sari as a two-piece outfit with an optional shawl and noted that Indians don’t use utensils to eat. As Sadaf Ahsan wrote for The Juggernaut: “If you aren’t blonde and blue-eyed, life in plastic isn’t fantastic.”

[ira-scargeear]

Do you like this brocade? Such a symmetrical floral pattern is called Damask - after Damascus, the capital of Syria. This technique spread to the nearby countries from there. Middle Eastern patterned brocades were well known in the whole region and became famous in Europe since the times of crusades. Such brocades were often made of pure silk or silk blend and had metallic threads in it. They were woven on the looms, by hand, and required a very skillful weavers. With its bold, huge patterns, shining with gold and silver, such fabrics costed a fortune. Only the wealthiest folk could use them for their garments. Damask brocades were given as a luxurious gifts, inherited and cherished. I created this Rococo Grand Court set out of a modern fabric with Damask pattern. The shape of the skirt shows the golden weave in its full glory. I made a tiara-like crown as an accessory for this set.

When I was a kid I thought that the crown has "teeth" by default, and the top is open - like it's often drawn in the cartoons. Later I discovered crowns with closed top that had something on it: a cross, a huge jewel, etc. Such crowns were favored by European monarchs, and there are a plenty of crowns of this type. Do you know Rococo shoes were made symmetrical, without defining left and right shoe? High heeled shoes weren't common in Europe until late Renaissance times. Then high heels became a thing in male fashion during Baroque era, and both genders wore high heels in Rococo times. While male heels were more wide and solid, female ones were super delicate, with kinky curves. The heel tip was moved to the front, so the footprint was much shorter than the foot itself, making an impression that the wearer has tiny feet. The heels were mostly carved out of wood, as it allowed to create any shape. Then they were painted or covered with fabric or leather. I made these shoes for Iplehouse SID feet, and they're not symmetrical, to fit the rigid doll feet better. Rich Indian sari brocade with metallic thread was used for them, and the heels are 3D modeled and printed.

[a-punchline-on-duct-tape]

im so freaking happy you're punjabi too because this has been sitting in my brain wayy too long, but could i request a punjabi!reader x dallas winston except shes sassy asf and has hella nakhre except he handles it perfectly. thanks!

desi/punjabi!reader x dallas winston hc's

A/N : yes, yes, and yes.

~

firstly, dallas winston is not racist. some of yall are insane with your headcanons

dallas winston could truthfully care less about any background his partner is

now that ive established this, let me continue

~

he finds it so incredibly hot whenever you say something, ANYTHING in a different language.

you could call him a 'bandar' (monkey) and he would still find it hot

"what does that mean, huh? you callin' me handsome?"

not much to do except roll your eyes in dismay as well as secretly find it cute

one time, he saw you wearing a suit/lengha/sari (whatever you like)

he almost went insane

like gen jaw dropped and everything

"when'd you start wearing stuff like that?"

"y'should wear it more often, doll."

as far as nakhre goes, he finds it attractive, and he learns over time how to shut it down

he doesnt understand how to shut it down if your really cussing him out in punjabi

“bhonkana band karja.”

“love you too.”

i have a whole other hc that johnny is punjabi (or desi in general)

so, it is a common occurence to see dallas asking johnny what random stuff means

johnny cant translate half the time bcs dallas cant pronounce half of it correct

whenever you do say something nice, it flies over his head

the only thing he understands is nice is ‘meri jaan’ (my life / my beloved)

he likes that one

one time, he came over to your house during winter, probably to hang out cuddle but dallas winston doesnt ‘cuddle’, and your bed had one of those thick floral kambals

(one of these bad boys right here)

he swears hes never slept better in his whole life

he probably stole one of those blankets from your mother

speaking of parents

if your parents are immigrants, hes borderline scared of them (even if he’d never admit it)

hes realistically horrified of your dad, even if your parents allow you to date

hes probably cool with your mom, however

your mom would probably sit there and hand feed him roti and refer to him as ‘beta’ / ‘puthar’

punjabi/desi moms are soo sarcastic its not even funny

dallas winston has the exact same humor as your mom its insane

hes definitely attended at least one family function

got forced to try and dance at some point before he totally swore off dancing

he really likes gol gappe but hes really bad at eating it in one bite

got forced to sit at the kids table

got drunk with all the chachas and mamas (lets be fr)

overall your family likes him

thinks its absolutely stupid how you only wear gold jewelry

although, you make an exception for the st. christopher necklace, to which he is grateful for

if you have a hard to pronounce name, he’d spend too much time trying to say it right

realistically he finds food wayy too spicy, but he’ll tolerate some things

he wouldnt like chai

which you find insane

overall you two are so cute and happy together 10/10 couple right here

[sundarcamille]

they might be married a bit

[ID: Pavitr is wearing an eggshell-colour kurta pajama, a nath/nose hoop, many necklaces, and other shiny jewellery including the ring on his left ring finger, his hands up like a dance pose, his smile wide and proud. Their faces beside each other, Hobie hugs his waist, showing the audience a spiky ring on his left ring finger. Hobie is wearing an embellished deep red sari, bindi, nose ring and multiple bracelets. He has fresh flowers in his hair. Both of them wear henna on their hands and arms. Hobie's resembles spider webs or his torn fishnets, Pavitr's lotuses in full bloom. They also wear floral garlands on their neck. They look like a paper cut-out on a lime-green, cyan, magenta and violet halftone collage background, which consists of various leaves and flowers and a terracotta vase. Fern, lotus and gardenia just to name a few. Photos are taken from our garden.]

[st-kitten]

brat party pt.7

bonus nsfw chapter + epilogue

warnings: none, mild angst, long chapter

sasuke leaned against the railing, smoking with shikamaru, half-listening to the chatter around him. his gaze lingered on ino, who was scrolling through her phone with too much enthusiasm for comfort. her eyes flicked up, catching sasuke's attention, before she let out a long sigh.

"seriously, india is so pretty," she gushed, her voice laced with awe. "look at this. y/n’s wearing this gorgeous kurta here—like, the colours! and her sari, it’s like something out of a dream!" she swiped through more photos, her fingers zooming in on each shot.

"i’m definitely doing an indian floral theme for the boutique’s new collection. imagine... marigolds, jasmine, orchids... with all those deep reds and golds. it'd be perfect!"

"wait, what's a marigold?" naruto, on the other hand, squinted at the screen. ino shoved her phone in his face to show how the gorgeous orange flower looked like.

"illiterate."

you had visited home for a while since your visa was finally approved. that much was a relief for sasuke. your physical absence meant he didn't have to look over his shoulder.

you didn't deserve his aversion, he knew that. but he couldn't shake that uneasiness off. he hadn't talked to you for two weeks, and you hadn't reached out either. which bothered him, without reason. you had every right to ignore him.

sasuke sat in class, the lecture fading into background noise, his attention fixated on his phone screen. it wasn’t like him to be this distracted, but somehow, looking at your instagram feed felt like some strange, necessary task. his fingers swiped through each photo like a detective analysing forensic evidence, a habit he’d fallen into without realising it.

a photo of a steaming cup of cutting chai with a pair of golden parlé-g biscuits beside it. he could practically taste the bittersweet warmth, and for a moment, his chest tightened—you’re so far away, and yet so close.

then, your orange cat. he hadn’t known you had one. it was nestled on your lap, looking perfectly content. it made him feel… uncomfortable. how had he missed this? why hadn’t he asked more about you, about the little things? he knew why. his arrogant need to be closed off from everyone.

another sari shot. you, poised as always, this time in a cobalt green and red ensemble. the intricate fabric shimmered in the sunlight. like that time you danced on the ruins by the beach. he could still recall your graceful movements.

his thumb swiped again, and this time, it stopped at a photo that made him feel extremely... guilty, of treating you the way he had. there you were, resting against the body of a massive cow, the gentle creature leaning into you as if it were finding solace in your touch. your arm was raised, fingers brushing against the cow’s head, your expression soft and peaceful.

it was a serene, almost otherworldly image—your soft smile, the warmth of the moment, the deep bond between you and the animal. how does someone like you exist?

the simplicity of the picture struck him more than any of the others. there was no glamour, no grandeur. just you, in a soft beige sari, connecting with something so humble, so grounded. there was a softness to you, a kind of tenderness that seemed to radiate even through a picture. it was like you were too much for him to handle, too real, too perfect, and it made him feel small.

this? this was the person he'd so bravely decided to push away? someone so... innocent, who'd even befriend a cow?

and then, the snowy landscape. his chest constricted. he recognised it immediately—the train track near the uchiha estate. he hadn’t realised it then, but the fact that you’d left alone that night, on new year’s eve, felt like an unforgivable weight pressing against him now.

and finally, the last photo—a picture of you with a guy he didn’t recognise, your backs to the camera, but hands held. maybe he's your friend. just a friend. he felt like breaking the phone into two.

he couldn’t deny the surge of jealousy that coursed through him, but it wasn’t the wild, irrational possessiveness he’d expected. no, this was different. it was the quiet ache of someone who had no right to feel anything about it.

he had made it clear, hadn’t he? no strings attached. no commitments. he’d been the one to push you away, the one who told you to leave. and yet here he was, seething over a picture of you with some guy, a guy who was clearly just your friend, but sasuke couldn’t shake the unease crawling up his spine.

there was a twisted, ironic kind of humour in it—he’d spent so much time telling himself that he didn’t care, that he didn’t want anything serious, and now he was staring at this picture like it was evidence of something he had no claim to. you don’t get to feel this way, uchiha sasuke, he scolded himself.

the life you led on campus, with him, with others, and the life you had home were so different.

sasuke stared at the screen, his finger pausing over the photo of you with the cow. the insight he had into your life, even though it was through instagram, felt so surreal. you were so full of life in the simplest of ways. the brightness you brought into life, as he now learned, extended to everything; from his college friends, to his family, to his scary dog, the humble cow, even a stupid cup of tea. it was beautiful because it was you.

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when the semester kicked in,

you were everywhere. no matter where he turned, no matter how much he tried to avoid you, your presence seemed to find him. the canteen, for instance—there you were, sitting at a corner table with ino, sakura, temari, tenten, and hinata. they were all talking, giggling about something trivial, but his eyes were only on you. (sasuke vs lunch)

or worse, he’d spot you alone, quietly eating with a book propped open in front of you, as if the world outside didn’t exist. how can someone look so peaceful just eating lunch? he wondered, whether a book was more interesting than him. (sasuke vs book)

then there were the corridors—passing glimpses of you walking from one class to another. sometimes with your batchmates, chatting lightly, your smiles carrying over the din of students. other times, you’d walk alone, as if your mind was off somewhere, lost in thoughts too gentle for this chaotic world. (sasuke vs ???)

the worst was seeing you under the trees on campus grounds, reclined against the trunk with your headphones on and a book in your lap. you were untouchable, so absorbed in your own world. (sasuke vs tree)

every moment, every stolen glance, only twisted the knife further.

you were content. without him.

he could see it in the way you laughed with the girls, your whole face lighting up as if you carried the sun inside you. or in the quiet moments, where you seemed entirely at peace, like nothing in the world could trouble you.

it hammered into him relentlessly. no matter how much he told himself that he’d made the right choice, that he was protecting himself by letting you go, he couldn’t shake the truth staring him in the face: you didn’t need him.

and maybe that was what hurt the most. not the jealousy, not the longing, not even the unbearable ache in his chest every time he saw you. it was the fact that you were fine. without him.

you had found your balance again, while he... he was still spinning out of control.

there was that time in the canteen when ino came bounding in, practically dragging you along by the wrist. her voice carried over the buzz of the crowd as she announced to the entire table that she was wearing one of your kurtas.

“isn’t it adorable?!” she squealed, spinning around dramatically. she had on a purple kurta, simple yet elegant, paired with jeans, and she looked like she was on top of the world.

you had heart eyes at a friend wearing something you'd given her, as if sharing pieces of yourself meant more than anything.

you had lent her something of yours. something close to you, something that carried your warmth. and ino had worn it with pride, parading it around like it was a badge of honour.

he tried to convince himself it didn’t matter. it wasn’t a big deal. but as he turned away, his jaw clenched and his steps quickened, trying to get to a corner table.

it wasn’t the kurta. it wasn’t even ino. it was you.

how effortlessly you shared pieces of yourself with others. how you gave, without hesitation, without reservation. how you let people in, and it never backfired. how you were everything he wasn’t.

and then there was that day on the campus grounds. sasuke had walked by the training area, expecting to see naruto showing off as usual, only to find you there, too.

you sat perched on naruto's back, effortlessly balanced as he grunted through a set of push-ups, his face red from the effort but his grin as wide as ever. “fifty-seven... fifty-eight... i could do this all day, y/n-chan!” he declared between exaggerated breaths, clearly basking in your amused laughter.

but it wasn’t just naruto that baffled sasuke—it was shikamaru.

known for his eternal laziness, the one guy who couldn’t be bothered with anything remotely taxing, sat cross-legged nearby, holding a cigarette between his fingers, quizzing with you as you held up political science flashcards you'd made for him so he didn't have to.

“uh… it’s, uh, the treaty of—”

"nope"

shikamaru sighed, muttering something about how troublesome this was, but the faint smirk on his face said otherwise. you had done the impossible—you had shikamaru nara willingly studying, willingly engaging, and actually enjoying it.

you were content. here you were, weaving your way into the fabric of his friends’ lives, laughing like nothing in the world could touch you. like the pain he’d caused you hadn’t left even the faintest shadow.

and the worst part? the thought that it was his fault you weren’t laughing with him.

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you were no fool. nor blind. nor oblivious. you'd begun noticing sasuke stalking you like a private detective on a mission.

sometimes, it was in the canteen, where you’d catch the faintest flicker of black hair in your peripheral vision as you laughed with sakura and the others. other times, it was in the corridors, where he’d conveniently appear around the corner just as you were passing. and on more than one occasion, you’d felt his gaze burning into your back as you lounged under the campus tree, headphones on, pretending to read while inwardly chuckling at his not-so-subtle antics.

he thought he was being sneaky.

you thought it was hilarious.

sasuke uchiha—the brooding enigma of the campus, the guy who could clear a room with a single glare—was following you around like some amateur private detective on his first case.

you didn’t let on that you knew. not yet, anyway.

but oh, how you wanted to laugh every time you caught him “casually” leaning against a wall or “coincidentally” walking in the same direction as you. it was almost endearing, the way he tried to keep up the façade of indifference.

you wished he’d just talk to you.

but this was sasuke we were talking about.

he’d sooner cut off his left arm than admit he wanted… well, anything. companionship, closure, or even the faintest shred of connection.

so instead, you let him have his “stealth.” you let him watch.

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sasuke’s impatience had been simmering for days, bubbling just beneath the surface of his carefully controlled exterior.

he told himself he didn’t care, that he was just frustrated, that it was the nagging guilt over how he’d treated you.

but the truth clawed at him, relentless and raw: he missed you.

and now, at 2 a.m., with no distractions left to dull his spiraling thoughts, it was too much. the room was suffocating. every shadow seemed to mock him, whispering your name in the silence.

before he even realized it, he was out the house, stalking through the empty hallways with single-minded determination. logic, consequences, and basic human decency didn’t matter anymore.

he didn't care that boys weren't allowed in girls' dorms past curfew. he didn’t care that it was the middle of the night. he didn’t care that your roommate might be fast asleep. he didn’t even care that you’d probably slam the door in his face.

he just needed to see you.

the pounding on your dorm room door echoed through the silent corridor, loud enough to wake half the floor.

thud! thud! thud!

he stood there, jaw tight, his heart hammering in his chest as he waited.

your roommate’s muffled groan came first, followed by the sound of shuffling feet. the door cracked open, your bleary-eyed roommate glaring at him with pure annoyance.

“do you know what time it is?” she hissed, rubbing her eyes.

“not here for you,” sasuke said curtly, his dark eyes already scanning over her shoulder for you.

you walked in moments later, clad in a white slip and pink hello kitty pants, with a cardigan draped around you, your hair messy and a yawn on your face.

"sasuke, what the fuck."

he opened his mouth to speak, but no words came out.

he hadn’t thought this far ahead. all he knew was that he had to see you, and now that he was here, he felt like an idiot.

sasuke didn’t answer your question. instead, he brushed past you, his broad shoulders almost knocking you off balance as he stormed into the room, to your side of the bed.

“what the—?” you stammered, watching as he strode in like he owned the place.

your roommate shot you a look, half annoyed, half amused, before grabbing her pillow, blanket, and phone. “i’m not dealing with this. you two figure out your... whatever this is.” she waved vaguely between the two of you, then muttered under her breath, “this better not end with broken furniture.”

you opened your mouth to apologize, but she was already heading out, slamming the door behind her as she left.

and just like that, it was quiet.

you finally turned to look at him.

"explain."

he didn’t answer immediately. instead, he paced the small room, his fists clenching and unclenching at his sides, his jaw tight, observing the small trinkets on your desk, your stack of reference books, your kuromi plushie, taylor swift posters on the wall.

“are you going to say something, or should I call security?” you added, half-joking, though your voice betrayed the slight unease creeping into you.

he finally stopped pacing, turning to face you. his eyes—dark, intense, and filled with something you couldn’t quite place—locked onto yours.

"why are you acting so unbothered?" he snapped, his voice low, almost growling.

you blinked. "what?"

"don’t play dumb with me," he hissed, taking a step closer, his fists clenched at his sides. "do you suddenly... not think about me? not want anything? or was it that easy for you to just—just move on?"

you processed the absurdity of what you were hearing. "what the hell are you even talking about, sasuke?"

"you know exactly what i’m talking about," he shot back, his voice rising slightly, his control unraveling with every passing second. "you walk around like i don’t even exist. laughing, smiling, like none of it meant anything to you."

impatience bubbled in your chest, rising fast. "are you seriously blaming me for this? you were the one who told me to leave. you wanted me gone, remember?"

he flinched, his jaw tightening, but he didn’t back down. "that doesn’t mean you get to act like i never mattered."

you let out a harsh, bitter laugh, stepping toward him now. "oh, i’m sorry. would you prefer it if i cried in every hallway? threw myself at your feet and begged for your attention? is that what you want, sasuke?"

"don’t twist my words," he hissed, his voice shaking now—not with fear, but with something deeper, more volatile.

“can’t fucking get it up for any bitch out there. fucking hate it,” he mumbled.

"what do you want?" you demanded, your voice breaking as the anger turned into something heavier, something that sat like a stone in your chest. "because i’m done trying to figure it out. one second, you want me gone. the next, you’re standing here, accusing me of—of what? pretending to be fine? moving on like you asked me to?"

"it’s not that simple," he said, his tone dropping, but the fire in his eyes still burned.

"it is that simple," you shot back. "you told me to leave. you wanted distance. you wanted nothing to do with me. so i left. i did what you wanted. what else could i have done, sasuke?"

he looked at you then, and for a second, just a fleeting second, you saw something in his eyes that made your breath hitch. regret.

"i didn’t think you’d actually go," he admitted, his voice low, almost broken.

you stared at him, stunned. "are you even listening to yourself? what the hell was i supposed to do? stay and let you rip me apart over and over again? i’m not your punching bag, sasuke. i’m not—"

"you’re not nothing to me!" he suddenly shouted, his voice cracking under the weight of his own emotions. the words hit the room like a thunderclap, and the silence that followed was deafening.

you stared at him, your heart pounding so hard it hurt. he was breathing heavily now, his shoulders tense, his hands trembling slightly at his sides.

"you sure treated me like i was."

he paced now, his movements frantic, his hand dragging through his hair, gripping it at the roots like he was trying to rip something out. "because i don’t know how to do this!" he barked, spinning around to face you, his eyes blazing with frustration. "you came into my life and just—just tore everything apart! and i don’t know how to be what you want me to be!"

you raised an eyebrow, your voice steady despite the storm brewing in him. "what do you think i want you to be, sasuke? some perfect, flawless guy who never messes up? that’s not what i’m asking for. i never asked for that."

"then what are you asking for?" he shot back, his voice cracking on the last word. he was unraveling now, the tension in his body barely holding him together. "because whatever it is, i can’t give it to you! i don’t know how to give it to you!"

you let out a slow, deliberate breath, folding your arms across your chest. "you’re making this so much more complicated than it needs to be."

"complicated?" he repeated, his laugh sharp and bitter as he threw his head back, pacing again like he couldn’t stand still. "this is complicated, y/n! everything about you is complicated!" he turned back to you, his eyes piercing. "you make everything feel like... like it’s too much and not enough all at once. you drive me insane."

"so, what?" you asked softly, meeting his fiery gaze with calm resolve. "it’s my fault you can’t figure out how to deal with your feelings?"

"yes! no!" he groaned, dragging his hand down his face, his frustration mounting. "you don’t get it. i’ve spent my whole life keeping people at arm’s length. i like keeping people at arm’s length—it’s safer that way. and then you... you came in with your goddamn smiles and your fucking dimples and your dances and your way of making everyone—everything—feel like it’s... worth something."

you blinked, the weight of his words sinking in. "and that’s a bad thing?"

he froze, staring at you like you’d just asked him the most impossible question in the world. his jaw tightened, and for a moment, you thought he wasn’t going to answer. but then he stepped closer, his voice low and trembling with something that wasn’t quite anger, but wasn’t quite calm either.

"it’s terrifying," he admitted, his dark eyes locking onto yours. "because it makes me want things i have no right to want. it makes me..." he trailed off, his fists clenching as he struggled to find the words.

"it makes you feel human?" you finished for him, your voice gentle but firm, like you were pulling the words out of him.

his eyes flashed, a flicker of vulnerability breaking through his defenses. "it makes me feel weak," he corrected, his tone laced with bitterness. "like if i let you in—really let you in—you’ll see everything. every flaw. every failure. and you’ll leave anyway, just like everyone else."

you scoffed. "who left you?" you began, taking a step closer. "naruto? who no matter how much he taunts you, always speaks highly of your friendship behind your back? shikamaru? who always keeps a spare joint in his pocket for you, knowing you may not even show up? sakura? who despite having her heart broken by you, still shows up to every frat meeting to make sure you're doing your job? ino? who always tries to include you in whatever everyone's doing unasked for? who's left you?"

sasuke flinched, the words hitting him harder than he'd ever expected.

you continued, your voice cold but cutting through the silence like a knife. "you act like everyone’s abandoned you, sasuke, like you’ve been left out in the cold, when the truth is—they never gave up on you. you’re the one who keeps pushing them away."

he opened his mouth to protest, but the words died in his throat. instead, his hand twitched, like he was going to grab you, but he stopped himself, his fist clenching at his side instead.

you took a slow step closer to him, your voice unwavering. "you think pushing me away will hurt less than letting me in?"

he swallowed hard, his adam’s apple bobbing, but he didn’t respond.

"you don’t scare me, sasuke," you said softly, your tone steady as you looked him straight in the eye. "your flaws, your failures—whatever it is you think you’re hiding from me. none of that scares me. but you know what does? this. you, running from your own feelings like they’re something to be ashamed of."

"you don’t get it," he growled, his voice strained, as if the words were a desperate attempt to hold onto control. "i can’t—i can’t let you in, not like this."

but even as he said it, a part of him already knew it was too late. he’d let you in long before tonight.

you took a small step forward, not out of aggression, but with the quiet understanding that you weren’t going anywhere. "so you’d rather be miserable? shut everyone out? pretend like none of this means anything to you?"

sasuke clenched his jaw so tightly he thought it might break, his eyes flashing with a mixture of anger and fear. "i didn’t ask for you to care. i didn’t ask for any of this!"

you didn’t flinch, your expression unmoving. "no, you didn’t. but that doesn’t mean i don’t care, sasuke. i never asked for your permission to feel something for you, either."

he felt the walls he’d built around himself start to crumble, but he pushed back, harder this time. "you think i want this? want to feel this way? want to feel—this?" he gestured vaguely between the two of you, his breath coming in quick, ragged gasps.

"you think i want to be so fucking lost in my own head, fighting myself, trying to push you away because i can’t stand how much i—"

he stopped himself, the words catching in his throat like they were too heavy, too dangerous to say.

you didn’t say anything right away, but your gaze softened, just a little, like you were waiting for him to finish.

the silence between you both was thick and heavy, pressing down on sasuke like a suffocating weight.

finally, when he couldn’t take it anymore, he spoke, voice low, almost trembling. "you’re just going to get hurt. all of you will. you don’t know what you’re dealing with."

"i’m not afraid," you whispered, your tone unshaken.

his eyes flickered to the floor, unable to meet yours for more than a split second. "you think you know me?" his voice was hoarse, like the words were dragged from the bottom of his throat. "you think you can just... accept all of this? all of me?"

you chuckled softly, the sound making sasuke look up at you. "you aren't all of you yet, sasuke. say that when you're 80 and your fake teeth clatter."

"what the hell do you mean by that?" he grumbled, his voice a little softer now, though his frustration still simmered beneath the surface.

you leaned back slightly, eyes glinting with amusement, but there was no malice in your gaze, just a knowing calm that made his chest tighten. "i mean that you're so obsessed with being something, that you forget you’re allowed to just be. you're allowed to make mistakes. you’re allowed to be a work in progress."

sasuke didn’t know how to respond to that. it wasn’t what he had expected, nor was it what he wanted to hear. but somehow, it had reached him, like a quiet seed planted in the depths of his mind, one that he couldn't shake free of no matter how hard he tried.

"i don’t need your... patience," he muttered, looking away, his voice low and almost defensive.

"but you have it anyway," you replied, your voice gentle but unwavering. "you’ll always have it, sasuke. even when you don’t think you deserve it."

"i don’t know how to be..." his words faltered, and he paused, searching for the right way to say it. "...how to be normal."

you looked at him, the softness in your eyes never wavering. "you're not supposed to be normal, sasuke. you're supposed to be you."

there it was again—the simplicity of it all. just be you.

"it doesn’t work like that," he argued weakly, but even as he said it, he knew it was a lie.

"it does, though," you said, leaning in just slightly, your gaze unwavering. "because, in the end, you are all you’ve got."

you watched him, waiting for him to say something, anything.

but he didn’t. instead, he took a deep breath, his jaw clenched in frustration, feeling the weight of everything—the confusion, the anger, the yearning—pressing in on him.

you took another step closer, your voice dropping even lower. "and if you’re lucky... you’ll find someone who doesn’t need you to be anything more than who you are right now."

"this... this is too much," sasuke finally spat, his voice sharp, though it cracked slightly with something softer beneath the anger. "you're pushing me into a corner, and i won’t—"

he stopped himself, suddenly realizing how weak his words were, how hollow.

"i don’t need your... i don’t need anyone’s help," he gritted out, his teeth clenched. "i’m fine the way i am."

"you are fine, sasuke." you were unsure of how he'd react, but you weren't going to let it go either.

tenderly, you held his face, your warm hands cupping his face.

he froze. every muscle in his body went rigid, like he didn’t know how to process the gentleness, the closeness. for a moment, his jaw tightened under your touch, his eyes refusing to meet yours, but you didn’t pull away.

"sasuke," you murmured softly, the way you said his name cutting through the noise in his mind.

he didn’t say anything, didn’t move. his hands hovered at his sides like he wanted to push you away, but the strength, the will to do so, was gone.

your thumbs brushed the sharp edges of his cheekbones, your touch steady, patient. "20 seconds of courage… that's all it takes…"

his lips parted slightly, but no words came out. the storm in his eyes flickered—chaotic, hesitant, and so utterly human.

"you’ve faced so much worse," you continued, your thumbs brushing lightly over his skin, grounding him. "but this... letting someone see you, the real you... that’s what scares you the most, isn’t it?"

he inhaled sharply, his chest rising as if he was about to say something, but instead, he closed his eyes tightly, like he was trying to block out your words.

"it doesn’t have to be forever," you murmured, leaning just slightly closer, your voice softer now, like a lullaby meant only for him. "just twenty seconds. for me. for you."

his hands, still resting lightly against your wrists, tightened almost imperceptibly. and then, as if the weight of your words was too much to bear, his head dipped forward, his forehead brushing against yours, and his hands held your wrists. his breath ghosted over your skin, uneven and shaky.

"you're okay… you're safe," you said softly.

"am i?"

you spoke to him gently, patiently, your voice barely louder than a whisper. "you're alive. you're here. and that's enough."

"enough?" he finally rasped, his tone carrying disbelief, self-doubt. "for who? for you? for them? i’ve never been enough for anyone."

you leaned closer, your hands still cradling his face like something fragile and precious. "the only person who's saying that is you. no one else."

sasuke’s hands slid from your wrists to rest against your forearms, his grip light, unsure. it wasn’t a declaration, not yet. it was a small step, hesitant and cautious. but it was a step.

and for the first time, you saw it—the faintest crack in the armour he’d spent years building around himself. not broken, not shattered, but softening. just enough for the light to start seeping through.

"what do you think is going to happen if you let people in, sasuke?" you asked again.

"i don't know..." he whispered.

your lips curved into a gentle smile, one that carried no judgment, only understanding. "nothing drastic," you said softly, the warmth in your tone pulling his eyes back to you.

he blinked, unsure, like he was waiting for the other shoe to drop. you held his gaze. "if you let me in, the most i'll do is get to know you more and better. that's all. not gonna ask you to marry me or anything."

that earned a quiet snort from him, a sound so small you might’ve imagined it. but the corner of his mouth twitched, the closest thing to a smile he could muster in the moment.

"that's all there is," you continued, your voice turning softer, like you were speaking to the wound inside him rather than the man in front of you. "trusting people and letting them trust you. knowing it's out of your control anyway."

he frowned slightly, his brows pulling together. "and if i get hurt?"

"then you get hurt," you said plainly, your fingers brushing his skin like a grounding force. "just know that it came into your life to teach you something, and left because you learned."

"we're human. there's a reason why hands fit together, why smiles and tears are contagious."

he didn’t pull away, but he didn’t move closer either, stuck in some liminal space between resistance and surrender.

"we’re not meant to do this alone, sasuke," you continued, your thumbs brushing over his cheekbones. "we’re not built to hold everything in, to push everyone away. it’s okay to lean on someone. it’s okay to let someone carry a part of it with you."

his lips parted slightly, but no sound came out. he was staring at you now, really staring, like he was trying to find the lie in your words and couldn’t.

"you’re not weak for wanting that," you whispered, your eyes locking onto his. "you’re human. and it’s okay to let yourself be human, even if it feels like it’ll break you."

the tension in his jaw softened, his shoulders slumping just slightly, like the weight he’d been carrying was finally starting to shift. "and if it does break me?" he asked, his voice quiet, hesitant.

"then we’ll put the pieces back together," you said without missing a beat, your smile tender but sure. "and maybe, just maybe, they’ll fit together better this time."

"you make it sound so simple," he muttered, his voice tinged with a mix of bitterness and longing.

"it’s not simple," you admitted, your hands never leaving his face. "it’s just worth it."

sasuke looked down at you, your calmness in face of the hurricane he'd brought in.

seeing his vulnerable frame, the way his shoulders dipped as if under a weight too heavy for one person to bear, made your gaze soften. his walls, though not completely gone, were thin enough now for you to see the person he was trying so hard to protect.

sasuke shifted under your steady gaze, unsure of what to do with the quiet between you. the thought clawing at the back of his mind made his throat tighten. he needed to ask, though the words felt jagged on his tongue, sharp and unyielding.

“would you still stay?” his voice cracked slightly, so low it barely reached the space between you. he wasn’t looking at you, his eyes fixated on the floor, on your feet, anywhere but your face. “after everything? i’ve been… turbulent. rude. dismissive. worse.”

your hands slowly fell from his face, but they didn’t stray far, instead resting lightly on his shoulders, grounding him. "i never intended to leave"

“you’ve hurt me, sasuke. i’m not going to pretend you didn’t. but the thing about me,” you continued, your hands giving his shoulders a slight squeeze, “is that when i care about someone, i don’t run at the first sign of trouble. i don’t leave when things get messy. i stay.”

he blinked at you, his expression unreadable, though his silence spoke volumes.

“but i’m not going to stay for you to push me away again,” you added, your voice softer now. “i’ll stay if you want me to, not because you feel guilty or think you owe me anything. so i’ll ask you, sasuke. do you want me to stay?”

the question lingered in the room like a taut string, vibrating with the tension of everything unsaid.

sasuke’s lips parted, but no sound came. his chest tightened, as if the air itself had turned against him, pressing into his ribs, clawing at his throat. did he want you to stay? the answer felt simple, so clear that it should’ve spilled out immediately. but the weight—the unbearable, suffocating weight—of what that answer meant was enough to drown him.

his breath hitched, every muscle in his body tense, caught in the silence that stretched between you like a chasm.

deafening, pressing in like the weight of an invisible hand. it wasn't the kind of quiet he craved—it was hollow, suffocating, a vacuum that pulled at the edges of his sanity.

and amidst it, he searched. not for stillness, but for you.

the thought struck him like a sudden gust of wind, knocking him off balance. your voice, your laughter, the way you hummed when you were lost in thought—it all came rushing back to him, vivid and alive, cutting through the oppressive void in his head.

his fists clenched at his sides as he tried to push it away, to retreat into the safety of silence he’d always clung to. but he couldn’t. your noise was everywhere. the memory of your voice spilled into the cracks of his walls, growing louder with every beat of his racing heart.

sasuke wanted to hear it again. the way you’d call his name, sometimes soft, sometimes teasing, always full of life. he wanted to hear you complain about something trivial, laugh over something silly, or argue passionately about something you believed in.

but more than that, he wanted to hear you talk to him—not because you had to, but because you wanted to.

“yes.”

the word came out broken, a croak barely audible, trembling on the threshold of a sob, as he felt the burn in his eyes, the blur of unshed tears he hadn’t even realised were there.

you didn’t speak. you didn’t have to. your hand reached up, brushing against his cheek, catching the tear that had fallen. the gentleness of your touch was his undoing, a dam breaking without warning.

he didn’t mean to cry. not here, not now, not like this.

but the tears came anyway, slipping down his face in silent streaks. he pressed the heel of his palm against his eyes, trying to rub away the tears, but they wouldn’t stop.

"don't look at me," he begged with a fractured voice.

"okay..."

you closed the distance between you, wrapping your arms around him, pulling him into a hug. he stiffened in your embrace, unsure, unprepared for the tenderness. but as his face pressed against your shoulder, hidden from the world, he let himself crumble.

behind the safety of your back, away from the gaze he couldn’t bear to meet, he let it all out. the tears fell in waves, silent at first, then deep, gut-wrenching sobs that echoed in the quiet room.

his arms enveloped you tightly, as held a drowning man a log.

"idiot..."

sasuke didn’t know whether to laugh or cry more. you were right. you were still the same humorous, honest to a fault, good person you'd been before he knew you, before he hurt you, and in spite of it. letting you in... hadn't changed a thing.

a dry laugh bubbled up from his chest, bitter and half-formed, and yet he didn’t pull away from you. "yeah, probably," he rasped, his voice cracked from the weight of everything he hadn’t said before, everything he didn’t know how to say.

it took a whole bottle of water to calm him down as he sat on your bed, 3 a.m. on the clock. you sat beside him, looking at how tired he was.

"you are... an absolute...idiot for coming all the way to my dorm from your house," you mumbled to sasuke, texting your roommate an apology.

sasuke, still recovering from the aftermath of his breakdown, gave a hollow chuckle. "i didn’t think about it," he muttered, eyes unfocused as he stared at his hands, the trembling finally beginning to fade. "just... needed to be here."

his words were soft, almost reluctant, as though admitting it made him feel weaker. he wasn’t sure if it was the exhaustion or the feeling of being emotionally spent, but there was a strange comfort in being so utterly exposed, yet not alone.

"i can leave if you want me to."

“i’m not going to kick you out. i’m not ‘you’,” you sneered jokingly.

sasuke flinched at the reminder, the bitter taste of his own actions coming back to him. “i... didn’t mean that,” he muttered, his voice barely a whisper, as if apologising for the millionth time. “you didn’t deserve that.”

"i know."

"i'm still scared, y/n."

"i know that too."

"it’s… it’s hard," he admitted, "being scared… and wanting something so bad."

he looked up at you then, and for the first time, he didn’t look like he was bracing for an impact. "i’m sorry," he whispered, his voice breaking just a little.

you smiled sympathetically, leaning forward, and pressed a kiss to his forehead. "i forgive you... now you—"

"forgive myself. believe me, that's the phrase of the year for me," he responded, sighing.

you eventually handed him a spare blanket, letting him use your roommate's empty bed. but sasuke couldn't sleep a wink. getting off of the strange bed, he trudged towards yours.

you looked up at him. "it's a single bed for a reason..."

sasuke crawled into it nonetheless, his larger frame taking up most of the space. you didn't push him away. you both slept in your bed, snuggled against one another under the comforter.

sasuke draped his arm around your waist, the other pulling you into him from under your body, spooning you with a softness you never knew he was capable of.

[apinchofm]

Requested by @angel-starbeam - Edwina and Friedrich meet in India before she leaves for England and exchange letters.

Edwina knew balls would be much different in England. She would not get to wear her saris anymore, having to wear English clothes instead. She would have to drink English tea and soften her Indian ways. She was to be an Englishman's wife.

She took a deep breath, as her mind races with all the changes. Especially standing in the ballroom of the Sivaganga Palace. It was her last ball here before she and her family set sail for England.

Kate, in her beautiful teal sari was standing with their mother, assured it would be well. Edwina was an extremely proficient young lady and excelled in all the skills she put her mind too. Mary was anxious about returning to England. All Edwina knew is that she left after marrying her Appa, given he and Kate were traveling with the Maharaja when they met in London. She hoped there would be a few good memories at the very least, for her mother.

She strolled outside into the water gardens, smiling at the other attendees and taking it all in. She had run around in these gardens as a child. In between lessons and naps in her father's office. Lanterns, covered in different colours illuminated the garden as water lilies floated around in the various pools.

Oh, she would miss home.

Edwina looked up at the sky as she leaned against the pillar. She remembers her Appa telling her the stars were the same all over the world, so they were all looking at the same stars when he went away. It was a comfort. She would see these same stars in London and think of her father. She was determined to make him - and her mother and sister - proud. She would do it. She hummed to herself.

Prince Friedrich had thought himself alone, looked around hearing someone humming. It was a beautiful sound.

"Hello?" He called out. He had seen her. She was much like a startled fawn, trying to hide behind a column. A girl in a pretty pink floral saree, lined with gold. Her deep brown eyes widened.

Edwina looked at him, nervously fiddling with the material draped over her shoulder. She was in so much trouble!

"I-I did not mean to interrupt you, sir!" She protested, seeing his uniform. He was white, tall, with broad shoulders which told her he could be a soldier. But his uniform was different from the British or Indian guards. A deep blue that brought out the blue in his brown-blue eyes.

"No, not at all." He assured her with a kind smile.

"You are German?" She asked, hearing his accent.

"From Prussia, yes."

"Oh, my deepest apologies!" Edwina quickly said, afraid of offending him.

He chuckled at her cautious approach, "Not at all. My mother is from a German principality, so I suppose I am. But do not tell any Prussian purist. A crown prince should not admit being from another country!" He winked and watched as her face fell, this opposite effect he was hoping to have.

She curtsied immediately, "Your Highness."

"I am Friedrich."

Edwina fixed her saree, unsure of what to say. She should know what to say!

"That is a beautiful dress." Friedrich said with a smile, “Who might you be? One of the Maharani’s lovely daughters? Sisters?”

Edwina giggled and blushed, shaking her head, “No, no. I am just Edwina. Miss Edwina Sharma, sir.”

“A pleasure to meet you, Miss Edwina Sharma.” Friedrich replied. He leaned on the opposite pillar from her, “What are you doing so far from the gathering?”

“Oh, I needed some air. This shall be my last ball here and I found myself overcome with emotion.”

“Are you leaving?”

“Yes, to England in a few weeks.” .

"England? Why leave such a beautiful country for country in which in rains all the time?” Friedrich wondered.

Edwina's face fell, "Well, my appa died. We have managed this far, as the Maharaja has been most generous. They were close. But to ensure long-term stability for my family, we must go to England so that my sister and I will make good matches." She explained. She did not know why she was telling him this but he was listening intently.

"My deepest sympathies for the death of your father. But why England?”

“Well, my mother is English. My parents met at a ball.” Edwina gushed, her eyes alight as she recounted the story she had adored hearing as a girl. "Amma always says how she fell in love with him and his soul. How he would always find her eyes in any room. Appa said that it was love at first sight."

"Do you wish for a love like that?" Friedrich asked softly. She looked like someone who deserved a love like that. A beautiful young lady, intriguing too.

Edwina thought hard. She did. She wanted to feel the love and joy her mama had for appa. But she remembers how devest

"I do. But I suppose…” Edwina sighed, “It does matter.”

“I believe it does.”

“I do not think so.”

“Are you sure?”

Edwina giggled, “Such impertinence from a gentleman!"

“I am a Prince. We are impertinent men.” Friedrich replied, then smiled taking a step towards her, "I hope you shall enjoy England. Perhaps we may see one another there. You are most lovely."

Edwina felt her face warm, "You are kind, my lord."

"I am honest. You are beautiful."

She shook her head, “I should go, I do not wish to disrupt you further."

Friedrich stood, wanting to reassure her, "You are not disrupting me. Did the Prince revelation scare you? I do not hope it did?” He asked.

"I think so." Edwina admits, fiddling with one of the gold bangles sliding up and down her arms, "Surely, you have far more interesting people to speak with?"

"I am a soldier. I can only have so many conversations on trade." He pretended to close his eyes and snore, making her laugh again.

She looked back, “I should go. I do not wish for my sister or mother to worry for me.”

"Good evening, Miss Edwina Sharma." Friedrich said in farewell.

"Your Highness." She smiled bashfully, looking back as she walked away. He was still smiling at her and she felt all warm and fuzzy inside.

[diamondcrownacademy]

DCA Info Part 38: Tea Party Concept Outfits

Art colored by @au-ni-ro

🍎 Evonie's Apple Tea Dress

This dress appears to consists of two layers, the first layer being a pale yellow dress with a waterfall hemline and lace cuffs layered underneath a red and blue dress with puff sleeves, yellow braid cuffs, and beige lines dividing the colors.

A blue choker with gold trim, pale yellow lace and the brooch are also present.

👠 Ella's White Tea Dress

This gorgeous white dress with gold trim was likely designed and made by Ella herself. The dress features a semi off shoulder bodice and the neckline is decorated with gold and white ribbons with light blue roses in the center. The puff sleeves of the dress even have pearl strand decorations. The dress's skirt has a pair of vertical pearl strands attached to white and gold ribbons with a trio of light blue roses which are in turn attached to pale blue ribbon. The bottom of the skirt is decorated with pale white lace with blue ruffle fabric on top.

The only accessory included is the pale blue ribbon collar.

🐰 Allison's Macron Tea Costume

Due to Allison's dislike for extremely fancy dresses, she would much rather wear this ensemble, which consists of a pale blue blouse with gold buttons, blue and gold cuffs with blue ribbon, and gold epaulettes that are attached to gold chains that have card suit charms on them. The puff pants are pale blue and blue in color and are divided by thin gold lines and also have gold braid straps at the bottom.

The only accessories included is a gemstone clock brooch which is gold in color and has crown and rose decorations, as well as a blue ribbon tied at the collar.

🌹 Briar's Rose Tea Dress

This gold trimmed dress is pale pink in color and has a mauve rose print in the center which is divided by thin gold stands. The bodice has a gold chest plate with lace on the top and bottom, a pair of light blue gem brooches and a strand of pearls protruding from the bottom of the chest piece. The bodice's puff sleeves are mauve in color and have gold braids as well as pale pink lace. The dress's skirt has four pearl strands.

The accessories include a pearl necklace with a light blue gem brooch and a gold belt with a diamond decoration.

🐠 Cerule's Butterfly/Sea Flower Tea Dress

This lavender ensemble includes a v-neck wrap bodice with pale ruffle sleeves. The dress' skirt appears to be made up of three layers with the first layer being a portion of the bodice, the second layer is comprised of several pale lavender ruffles and the third layer is a lavender underskirt.

The accessories include a lavender ruffle collar with white pearl beads, a purple gem brooch and a belt of white pearl strands attached to a pale lavender ruffle bow and the bow has a yellow charm in the center of it with what appears to be three stars alongside a venus comb shell.

📚 Rozeline's Black Tea Dress

This dress features a white top with lace trim and sleeves underneath a black formal blazer with gold trim, red gems near the shoulders and gold trim ruffle cuffs with ruby red roses on them. The dress' skirt is divided into two parts via gold trimmed fabric that is yellow in color and features various red roses and vines. The outer part has gold trim while the outer part has a gold trimmed part with lace on the top and bottom that is yellow and features red roses and green leaves.

The only accessory included is a gold elegant necklace with red roses and a red gem brooch.

🏝 Vidya's Masala Chai Tea Dress

This outfit consists of a light blue gold trimmed top with transparent pale blue sleeves that have floral print with gold cuffs that have green jewels. The bottom half of the outfit consists of a pale blue overskirt layered over a transparent pair of harem pants with gold cuffs that have green jewels.

The accessories include a blue sari with gold trim and lace, a gold collar, a gold necklace with a green gem and a blue necklace with green jewels and a gold outline. An additional accessory featured is a gold belt with green jewels and a green beetle brooch.

🐲 Jinlong's Matcha Tea Dress

This turtleneck dress is mostly navy blue in color with circular print and has chartreuse details throughout. Underneath the dress is a white one.

The only accessory included is a necklace of green pearls.

[cressida-jayoungr]

One Dress a Day Challenge

June: Weddings

Bride and Prejudice / Aishwarya Rai as Lalita Bakshi

Lalita wears this tasteful white sari to her friend Chandra's wedding. It looks plain at first but, on closer examination, proves to have quite a bit of subtle white-on-white floral ornamentation.

This scene has several attractive costumes, although most of them only appear onscreen very briefly. I really like Jaya (Namrata Shirodkar) in green--a color possibly chosen to show that she's having a bad time. The outfits for the bride and groom (Sonali Kulkarni and Nitin Ganatra) are very nice as well. Bonus pictures below!

[deyasworld]

Alia Bhatt in her beautiful floral Sabyasachi Sari 🥻💕

[mypralaya]

When I did Haven in SHAW’S WORST PALETTE I loved the lineart SO MUCH that I saved it and decided to play around with it like a paperdoll. It was super fun and relaxing when I just wanted something easy to color and didn’t have any energy for anything else. I ended up with a lot of them and thought I’d just post them all together in one glorious colorful image dump! First row left: Haven in Shaw’s LESBIAN FLAG LOOK First row right: Blue and silver with a wave pattern Second row: Haven in the colors of her villain costume Third row: Black Queen concepts, one red/black/gold and the other two just black/gold. One black/gold saree is plain, the other has a fancy floral pattern! Fourth row: White is a color of mourning in India, and while many male politicians have worn it, female politicians have historically avoided it, likely because of its association with widowhood. So I’ve stayed away from it for Haven, I think bright colors suit her more anyway. But I thought I’d give it a try since I had this template! Likewise, red is a color I’ve never drawn her in either, because it’s a bridal color in India. While just wearing something red isn’t bridal attire per se, a red sari is basically the equivalent of walking around in a wedding dress as far as I understand it. But as with white, since I’m probably never going to put her in it again, I tried it with the template! Bottom row: Sunset/sunrise ombre and a night color theme! 

[ogaan]

Concept Sarees: A Modern Twist

Looking for a timeless saree that is elegant and graceful without the fuss of draping? Look no further, we've got you covered!

Sarees have been the most coveted staple in every Indian woman's closet - an heirloom passed down for generations. The quintessential garment has evolved over the years, from elaborate traditional drapes to contemporary interpretations, adapting to changing fashion trends and lifestyles.

While its timelessness is revered, draping the six-yard staple may not come easy to everyone. In comes the pre-draped or concept saree — in its many renditions — the answer to all your draping woes.

Pre-draped sarees fuse the essence of a traditional saree of elegance and grace with the comfort, ease and innovation of contemporary fashion. This silhouette ranks high on style and comfort. Sangeet, cocktail or destination wedding—this versatile and effortless concept sari will take you through it all.

One of the unique features of pre-draped sarees is their innovative draping techniques. A multitude of designers and fashion houses are constantly experimenting with new ways to pre-drape sarees, resulting in creative and unconventional styles and shapes which add to its versatility, making it an effortless choice for your festivities. 

If you’re looking for an evening soiree or cocktail-worthy look, Ritika Mirchandani’s high-shine iteration of the concept saree is a lehenga-style pre-draped saree featuring a fitted skirt-like bottom with pleats, giving it an illusion of a lehenga or a skirt. 431-88 By Shweta Kapur is perfect for those looking to add glam and drama to their night of dancing. A blend of chic, glam and sophistication in her designs, Ridhi Mehra's ingenious use of ruffles, tulle, feathers along with intricate embroideries and sequins in her iconic pre-draped sarees should definitely be on your radar to make a statement.

For daytime celebrations, look towards Paulmi & Harsh’s mood-lifting florals to add a refreshing touch to your celebrations. Draw inspiration from Sana Barreja’s vibrant hues and cheerful prints and Rishi & Soujit’s sculptured designs to elevate your style quotient.  Aikeyah’s gorgeous tonal embroidery complements the asymmetrical cuts in pleasing pastels that are minimalistic yet add a touch of drama.

Head to our webshop to check out our Draped Sarees Edit to find the perfect concept saree that embraces your unique style and matches the tone of your celebrations!

[tarvikbedsheets]

Jaipur Block Print Razai: A Timeless Tradition of Craftsmanship

Jaipur Block Print Razai: A Timeless Tradition of Craftsmanship

Jaipur, the enchanting capital of Rajasthan, is a place where history and art seamlessly blend to create a vibrant cultural tapestry. Known for its stunning palaces, forts, and colorful bazaars, Jaipur is also home to a rich tradition of textile craftsmanship. Among the many treasures that this city offers, the Jaipur block print razai stands out as an exquisite fusion of traditional artistry and functional comfort. These quilted blankets, hand-printed using age-old block printing techniques, are much more than just bedding – they are a testament to the enduring legacy of craftsmanship in the region.

The Craft of Block Printing

Block printing in Jaipur has been practiced for centuries. The process involves carving intricate designs into wooden blocks, which are then dipped in natural dyes and stamped onto fabric. The process is labor-intensive and requires immense skill and patience. The result is a fabric adorned with stunning patterns, each piece unique in its design. The craft’s origins can be traced to the Mughal era, but it flourished during the reign of the Rajputs, who embraced the art and made it a signature of Rajasthani culture.

The designs themselves are often inspired by nature, with floral motifs, geometric patterns, and paisleys being some of the most common elements. The use of natural dyes further enhances the uniqueness of the block prints, giving each piece its own character and warmth.

Jaipur Block Print Razai: A Comforting Tradition

In Jaipur, the block print technique isn't just used for creating saris, curtains, or cushions; it has also been applied to the creation of razais, or quilts. These quilts are not only functional, providing warmth during the colder months, but they also serve as beautiful home decor pieces. Jaipur block print razais are known for their vibrant, rich colors and intricate designs, which can range from delicate florals to more bold, contemporary patterns.

A traditional Jaipur block print razai is often made from cotton fabric, with a soft, quilted filling that offers both comfort and durability. The process of hand-printing the fabric ensures that each razai is a one-of-a-kind piece. Whether you prefer muted earth tones or bright, vivid colors, there’s a Jaipur block print razai to suit every taste.

One of the key features of these razais is their lightweight nature, which makes them perfect for use year-round. During Jaipur’s hot summers, the razai offers a cool comfort, while during the cooler months, it provides enough warmth to keep you cozy. The beauty of a Jaipur block print razai is that it transcends the need for just a functional item – it becomes a piece of art that adds character and warmth to any room.

A Tarvik – The Art of Block Print Razai Making

While Jaipur block print razais are a staple in the local market, there is a niche group of artisans who elevate this craft to new heights. A Tarvik is an artisan who specializes in the creation of these quilts, often coming from generations of craftsmen who have honed their skills over many years.

The journey of making a block print razai is a meticulous one. A Tarvik starts by selecting high-quality cotton fabric and carefully carving the wooden blocks with intricate designs. The blocks are then dipped in natural dyes and pressed onto the fabric to create the desired pattern. Once the fabric is printed, it is left to dry, after which the quilting process begins. The blocks of printed fabric are sewn together, creating a beautiful, soft quilt that is both functional and aesthetic.

Each Tarvik takes pride in ensuring that every stitch, every block of color, and every design is perfect. The result is a razai that feels personal and unique, a true work of art.

Why Choose Jaipur Block Print Razais?

Jaipur block print razais are more than just decorative items for the home. They are steeped in history and culture, representing the craftsmanship that has been passed down through generations. When you choose one, you're not just adding a quilt to your home – you're embracing a piece of Jaipur's heritage.

These quilts are versatile and can be used in a variety of settings. Whether draped over a bed, used as a throw on a sofa, or hung as a wall hanging, the vibrant prints and intricate designs of a Jaipur block print razai can elevate any space.

Furthermore, buying a Jaipur block print razai means supporting local artisans and preserving a traditional craft that has stood the test of time. The artistry, care, and attention to detail that go into each piece are reflective of the dedication of the Tarvik and other artisans who continue to carry on this beautiful tradition.

Conclusion

Jaipur block print razais are a perfect blend of artistry, tradition, and functionality. Whether you are looking for something to enhance your home decor or seeking a cozy, handmade quilt for your bedroom, these razais offer both beauty and comfort. By supporting this art form, you’re helping preserve the rich heritage of Jaipur and ensuring that the legacy of block printing continues to thrive for generations to come.

So the next time you visit Jaipur or explore its markets, keep an eye out for these timeless treasures, and embrace the warmth and beauty of a Jaipur block print razai – a piece of history that you can feel good about bringing into your home.

[itsajapaneseworld]

Alia Bhatt wore a custom made Sabyasachi saree at the Met 2024. The sari's design, with its translucent, glass-like appearance was a nod to the ethereal quality of the garden in Ballard's story.

Bhatt’s concept took visual cues from the story, specifically, the fantastical life led by Count Axel and his wife.

The actor’s ethereal look featured a 23-foot-long train detailed with florals delicately hand-embroidered using silk floss, glass beading and semi-precious gemstones.

Handcrafted in India by a team of 163 people including craftsmen, dyers and embroiderers, the delicate couture sari took approximately 1965 hours across months to create. 

Her look also featured a bejewelled bralette which nods to India's rich heritage of jewellery, using precious emeralds, Basra pearls, tourmalines and multi-coloured sapphires.

Alia Bhatt's MET Gala outfit sketch

Outfit take :

Alia's look although pretty, it lacked the drama of the Met. It was very literal theme dressing. The train of the saree was very underwhelming too.

A neat detail I do like, is how the saree had only one sleeve and yet was barely noticeable.

The outfit doesn't stand out when you think of Sabyasachi's usual designs. I would have preferred if Sabya designed a gown for Alia instead of a Saree.

Celebs opting for a Sarees at international events feels like a safe and deliberate choice which shields them from international criticism.

Moreover, Alia has a shorter torso. Someone tall would have been able to pull this look better. Therefore, everything on Alia felt too much all at once. She could do without the bow for one. Same with the train as it did nothing for the outfit. Regardless of the person, I feel the train was a no go.

[womantrasaree]

How to Choose the Right Saree? 5 Easy Tips for Women          

A saree is extra than truly an outfit; it’s a symbol of grace, way of lifestyles, and individuality. With infinite saree designs, fabrics, and patterns available, finding an appropriate saree can now and again feel overwhelming. Whether you're looking for a wedding from Womantra, a festive occasion, or everyday wear, selecting the proper saree color and style performs an essential function in enhancing your appearance.

If you’re looking for a terrific saree online, here are 5 simple hints that will help you select the right one that enhances your character and occasion.

Tips for Choosing Saree Colors:

1. Pick the Right Sleeve Colour for Your Skin Tone

Choosing the right saree color could make all of the distinction in improving your herbal beauty. Different colorings create notable effects, so it’s essential to select out colors that compliment your complexion.

Fair Skin Tone: Bright hues like royal blue, emerald green, deep pink, and rich pastels seem stunning.

Medium Skin Tone: Warm sun shades like mustard yellow, burnt orange, olive green, and earthy tones paint superbly.

Dusky or Deep Skin Tone: Darker colorings like maroon, plum, deep crimson, and metallic solar sunglasses upload beauty.

 Pro Tip: If you’re uncertain, you could in no way pass incorrect with traditional sun shades like black, pink, or navy blue—they healthful nearly all people!

2. Choose the Right Fabric for Comfort and Occasion

The fabric of your saree influences its drape and normal look. Some fabrics are light-weight and clean to hold, while others deliver a wealthy, structured look.

 Popular saree fabrics and their uses

Cotton Sarees – Perfect for every day put on and summer months due to their breathability.

Chiffon and Georgette Sarees: Best for casual and semi-formal events, as they drape superbly.

Silk saree: Silk sarees are ideal for weddings and conventional functions due to their expensive sense.

Organza and Net Sarees: Great for events and nighttime occasions, as they upload a current contact.

Pro Tip: If you’re buying the high-quality saree online, always take a look at the material description to make sure it matches your comfort degree and event.

3. Select Saree Designs That Flatter Your Body Type

The proper saree designs can enhance your frame form and spotlight your great capabilities. Here’s the way to pick the appropriate fashion based on your frame type:

 Best Sarees for Different Body Types:

Petite Women: Opt for light fabrics like chiffon and georgette, and keep away from heavy embroidery that can crush your frame.

Curvy Women: Silk and cotton sarees with wide borders help outline curves superbly. Darker hues and vertical patterns create a slimming effect.

Tall Women: Bold prints, big motifs, and heavy borders work well. The best saree online with a contrasting pallu can decorate the top even more.

Pear-Shaped Body: Choose sarees with heavy pallu paintings and minimal lower-body detailing to balance proportions.

 Pro Tip: If you’re unsure about which saree designs fit your needs quality, cross for classic drapes like Banarasi or Kanjeevaram, as they look fashionable on all frame sorts.

4. Consider the Occasion before Buying a Saree

Different events call for extraordinary saris. Whether it’s a festive birthday celebration, a formal event, or a casual event, selecting an appropriate saree fashion ensures you stand out easily.

Saree Guide by using Occasion:

Office Wear: Simple cotton sarees or light-printed georgette sarees for an expert look.

Weddings and Festive Events: Heavy embroidery sarees, Banarasi silk, and Kanjeevaram sarees for a grand appearance.

Casual Outings: Floral or virtual print sarees for a fashionable but cushy appearance.

Evening Parties: Satin, net, or organza sarees with shimmer detailing for a glamorous touch.

 Pro Tip: If you’re looking for the first-rate saree online for multiple events, invest in flexible sarees like georgette and silk blends that can be styled differently.

5. Match Your Saree with the Right Blouse and Accessories

A saree’s attraction lies in the way you fashion it. The proper blouse, add-ons, and draping fashion can elevate your appearance instantly.

 Blouse and accessory styling tips:

Blouse Styles: Experiment with present day blouse styles like off-shoulder, cape-style, or deep-neck blouses for a present day twist.

Jewelry: Heavy sarees appear best with minimal rings, while simple sarees may be styled with announcement portions.

Footwear: High heels or wedges beautify your saree’s drape and make you appear taller.

Pro Tip: If you're wearing a saree with complex designs, opt for an undeniable shirt. For plain sarees, go for an embroidered or printed blouse for comparison.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the proper saree doesn’t ought to be confusing. By deciding on the ideal saree color, material, and saree designs primarily based on your frame type and occasion, you could make sure of a beautiful appearance each time. Whether you opt for traditional silk sarees or modern floral print saree, looking for the nice saree online has in no way been less difficult.

So, the next time you’re looking for a saree, maintain those pointers in thoughts and step out in style with self-belief from Womantra!