It was in 1969 that Ritu Kumar started her eponymous label with four hand-block printers in a rural region of Kolkata . Even over 50 years since then, the veteran couturier’s indelible prints continue to retain its top-drawer status. Allow Vaani Kapoor to show you how to tastefully do vintage block prints in 2024.
While on a press tour for her just-released dark comedy film, Khel Khel Mein , the actor swerved a multi-hued block print rendition that puts conventional designs to shame. For the outing in August, she stepped out in the Aster sari by Ri By Ritu Kumar which is a tribute to the designer’s storied past with the time and labour-intensive art form. A celebration of vibrant floral motifs, this print is from the brand’s vintage collection of blocks, according to the couturier.
Its origins can be traced to the first amalgamation of Indian textiles that served as the influence of European florals. The drape is made using weightless silk organza and brought to life with contemporary patchwork techniques . Antique metal tikkis and hints of flat gold aari further accentuate the sari.
Sonam Kapoor Ahuja to Sobhita Dhulipala, a string of stars have worn block prints from Ri By Ritu Kumar collections over the years. A recent look that stood out was the Imran coat ensemble from the Ritu Kumar Couture ’23 collection, flaunted by Kareena Kapoor Khan for Radhika Merchant and Anant Ambani's pre-wedding festivities in Jamnagar in March 2024. The 3 Idiots actor’s coat featured an intricate Jamawar design in khaki colours, made from a hand block from Farooqabad.
Vaani Kapoor’s unfussy but luxe sari epitomizes AM to PM dressing, striking the ideal balance of opposites: effortless florals with a rich moody colour story. The strappy blouse in rich velvet signals festive dressing. This style directive means that the look can be appropriated for both, a daytime ceremony with polki jewellery and a glamorous evening soirée with fine diamonds.
Kapoor accessorised her look with stud earrings by Shobha Shringar Jewellers. Soft glam makeup and a slick bun completed her beauty look. Also read: What lends the traditional sari to contemporary experimentation? Its timeless appeal Madhuri Dixit Nene's elegant allure in Geethika Kanumilli is the fashion highlight we've been longing for Radhika Merchant: “Choosing Jamnagar was our way of honouring our roots and the family’s legacy”.
