At the grand screening of her mythological horror film Maa, veteran actress Kajol embraced timeless elegance in a handwoven ivory sari that captivated the red carpet in Mumbai. Designed by Kapardara, the ethereal ensemble—aptly named Alina—was plucked from the brand’s latest Serpent & Bloom collection and was a masterclass in understated glamour.
Ivory saris have long been considered the chameleons of Indian wardrobes—versatile, refined, and capable of making quiet statements. Kajol’s choice reflected just that. While the colour evoked purity and poise, it was the craftsmanship that elevated this look from classic to couture.
Crafted in Organza and Silk, With Handwoven Gold Lampi
The sari was meticulously crafted from pure silk organza paired with a silk base that gave the outfit both ethereal fluidity and a structured drape. The organza pallu, sheer and lightweight, flowed effortlessly as Kajol walked the red carpet, while the inner silk layers anchored the look with grace.
What made this ensemble truly exquisite, however, was the intricate detailing on the border. Adorned with handcrafted gold Lampi work—an ancient Indian embellishment technique—the border was an ode to timeless craftsmanship. Using pure gold metallic threads, artisans painstakingly wove and embossed ornate motifs by hand. According to Kapardara’s co-founder Sneha Shekhawat, the Lampi work alone took 45 hours to complete, followed by another 28 hours for the overall construction of the sari.
Minimalism Meets Elegance
Staying true to the philosophy of “less is more,” Kajol kept her accessories minimal—choosing only a pair of delicate stud earrings. Her hair was styled in a sleek fishtail braid, delicately tied with gold ribbons, and her beauty look featured soft-toned makeup, a red bindi, and a natural glow that complemented the purity of her ensemble.
Why Ivory Remains a Red Carpet Favourite in 2025
Ivory, often overlooked for bolder hues, continues to be a fashion favorite in 2025 for its versatility. The shade seamlessly transitions from daywear to evening glamour and works equally well for intimate functions or grand red carpet appearances. Kajol’s look at the Maa screening is a perfect example of how an ivory sari, when paired with heritage techniques like Lampi, can create a fashion moment rooted in tradition yet completely in tune with modern sensibilities.
