Sometimes called Vasant Panchami, this festival comes with the arrival of spring. While exact practices can differ from one region to another, the color yellow is one constant seen throughout all of India. Yellow dishes, flowers, and other accents dot the horizon as far as the eye can see, with many women choosing to don sunny sarees of the same hue.
Let’s dive in and learn the ins and outs of dressing and celebrating the arrival of springtime during this highly anticipated time of year.
What Is Saraswati Puja?
Saraswati Puja, also known as Vasant Panchami, typically takes place toward the end of January. While this time of year is celebrated differently in various parts of India, it does officially mark the beginning of preparations for the arrival of the spring season. This also signals the beginning of preparations for Holika and Holi, which occur 40 days later.
In terms of attire, bangles are stacked onto both arms, jhumka earrings hang from ears, bindis are worn, elaborate makeup is applied, yellow flowers are displayed, and yellow-colored desserts are enjoyed. Above all, it’s a festive day of celebration, creativity, and flourishment.
What Is a Saree?
A saree, commonly spelled sari, is a larger stretch of fabric, ranging between three and nine yards long. One end is tucked into the waistband, with the rest of the fabric arranged over the body like a robe. The opposite end draped across the body and over the shoulder like a bit of a scarf.
Traditional Saree Styles
Typically, a saree will begin with a blouse and a basic underskirt. The saree is tucked into the underskirt, pleating around the waist as you tuck until the underskirt is completely covered.
Then, the pallu, or decorative end, can be wrapped or draped upward and across your body in a wide number of ways, with the ornamental end pinned on top of your shoulder. Draping a saree can be as complex or as simple as you desire.
Our Marigold Floral Georgette Saree is one perfect example of a traditional color, pattern, and style you might reach for when dressing for Saraswati Puja. A classic marigold shade of digitally printed Georgette silk is sprinkled with pink flowers and golden sequins. Golden lace along the trim and edge of the pallu adds an extra touch of showstopping glamor, worthy of festive celebrations such as this.
Traditional Saree Colors
Generally, yellow is the most popular shade worn during Saraswati Puja celebrations. From buttercup to marigold to neon yellow, all hues of the sunny shade are sure to be seen. But it’s not the only option out there. As a matter of fact, many women go for another festive color and sprinkle yellow into their looks through their makeup, jewelry, and other accessories.
You might see crisp shades of white or other seasonally appropriate pastels, but vivid, brightly colored ensembles are also ideal for these sorts of festivities.
The Lime Green and Cream Tie Dye Saree is one of our brightest sarees and a flawless way to usher in the springtime. Flowy dola silk has been digitally printed for a funky and unique tie dye effect, trimmed in a stretch of metallic lace. This lightweight addition is comfortable, great for the season, and is sure to stand out in a crowd.
Styling a Saree
Seasonal festivals are perfect times to break out brightly colored handbags, traditional jewelry, and fun makeup. Many women will match their eye makeup and sometimes their lipstick shade to their saree to only further make a statement. The Yellow Mirror Embroidered Georgette Lehenga offers a soft color palette that will allow subtle to dramatic makeup to shine.
If you have opted for a brighter shade like yellow and aren’t wanting to go all-out with the cosmetics, simply matching the metallics on your saree is another flattering way to complete the picture.
Our Orange Floral Embroidered Clutch Bag is one other way you can add another glimmering touch of the sun to your look. A smaller handbag, this orange clutch is adorned in metallic silver flowers and comes on a chain.
You could take the chain off for more formal occasions, but for exciting festivals where you may be running around or dancing with family and friends, this crossbody keeps both hands accessible so you can enjoy the day without hassle.
The Colors of Saraswati Puja
Yellow is the most prominent color of Saraswati Puja, but it’s not the only one seen. Other bright tones like hot pink, sunset orange, red, and turquoise are frequently seen in floral displays, party decorations, meals, desserts, and in both men’s and women’s fashion.
One way to combine traditional yellow fashion with springtime pastels is with our Yellow and Pink Embroidered Net Lehenga. This sunny set features a sleeveless yellow crop top heavily adorned with silver geometric sequins. The rounded neckline offers easy placement for large, multi-layered necklaces.
A net lehenga and santoon inner are heavily embroidered around the waistband and base to match the intricate designs on the blouse. A soft pink net dupatta provides the perfect pop of springtime flare with matching zari work and beading along the edge of the garment.
How To Dress for Saraswati Puja Festival
Being the official kickoff to spring, this is the time to reach for bold, bright colors and accessories and shed off darker and heavy layers from the wintertime.
The Golden Yellow Satin Sharara Suit is one great ensemble for such occasions. Heavily embroidered, beaded to the nines with dramatic, wide legs, and adorned with contrasting trim work along the edges, this look will surely turn heads.
The knee-length kameez boasts impressive beading, sequin details, and zari work from the keyhole neckline down to the beaded tassels along the bottom. Roomy sharara pants are equally as impressive, with matching stitching stretching all the way down the bell bottoms.
A sheer white net dupatta drapes effortlessly over the look with matching turquoise trim around the edges and metallic sequins stitched across the length of the garment.
Look Stunning and Usher in the Springtime
No matter if you choose to don traditional springtime pastels or go for a more over-the-top option with heavy embroidered detailing, every one of your friends and family members has the chance to show up and show out this upcoming season.
Shades of buttercup, marigold, and bright, sunny yellow are known to provide protection, show off a sunny disposition, and are a wonderful way to usher in the springtime. Make an investment in your springtime wardrobe and add a few more celebratory ensembles to your collection today.
Sources:
5 things to know about Vasant Panchami | Hindu American Foundation
The Meaning Behind the Many Colors of India’s Holi Festival | Smithsonian Magazine
9 Facts You Might Not Know About The Sari | Google Arts & Culture