Remember when zardozi meant a heavy lehenga you wore once and never touched again? That is changing. From Priyanka Chopra's latest Diwali party look to Janhvi Kapoor's chic Ritu Kumar blazer, celebs are taking hand embroidery off the wedding circuit and putting it on blazers, jackets, dresses and suits.

Same Karigari, New Cuts. Here Is How Each Of Them Wore It

Check out the Priyanka, Janhvi, Alia, Kareena and Isha Ambani looks that bring Indian crafts back into fashion.

1. Priyanka Chopra's Diwali Party Dress By Torani

Priyanka's Diwali party dress was by Torani and honestly, it stood out. Deep maroon, off-shoulder, full of gold work, tiny motifs, beads, and there was this long colourful tassel hanging from the sleeve. This look was elegant with the hint of glam. She didn't overdo anything else. Just sleek hair, small bindi, some fresh flowers. Smart move because when your outfit is that heavy, you don't need big jewellery.

2. Janhvi Kapoor's Golden Zardozi Blazer By Ritu Kumar

This look broke the internet for a reason. Janhvi wore a golden zardozi blazer by Ritu Kumar; not a lehenga, a blazer and that too with capri pants, black turtleneck, and those embroidered heels. Looks more like a cocktail outfit than a festive one, right? That's what I loved about it. You could wear this to a Diwali party at a friend's place or even for a festive day at work.

3.  Alia Bhatt's Zardozi Jacket By Anamika Khanna

Alia's was custom Anamika Khanna and it was so soft and pretty. Light colours, delicate work on the blouse, that sheer layer with heavy borders and she added hath phool too. This look is very much Anamika Khanna coded, rich but not loud at all. 

If you hate looking too done up during festivals, take notes from this one. One embroidered jacket over a simple lehenga or saree is enough.

4. Kareena Kapoor's Zardozi Suit By Debyani And CoIsha

Kareena's suit is for those days when you don't want any shine. It's by Debyani and CoIsha. The dark printed kurta, striped salwar, red and gold work only on the neckline and sleeves, and a grey dupatta with a border. For some reason this is giving that vintage vibe. Big earrings and you're sorted for a family lunch or puja.

5. Isha Ambani's Ensemble By Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla

Isha's champagne co-ord by Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla was so quiet but stunning. Halter top, fitted skirt, all done in tonal embroidery. She just added a layered necklace and heels. And the best part? You can actually re-wear it. Top with jeans, skirt with a white shirt. 

Why Is Handcrafted Indian Embroidery Worth Buying?

Every outfit here exists because a karigar sat for hours, sometimes days, stitching by hand. When you pick real embroidery, you are keeping that skill alive and paying the people who carry it forward.

It is also reusable fashion. A blazer, jacket, suit or co-ord comes out of your wardrobe again and again. No need to buy something new for every function.

So next time you shop for festive wear, skip the fast-fashion sequins. Look for real craft in a cut you will actually wear.

(Image Credits: Instagram)
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