Recreate Rekha’s Iconic Kanjivaram Saree Look with Deepam Silks

Who in India hasn't heard of Rekha Ji? Other than her timeless Bollywood movies and infectious smile - she is also renowned for her signature sarees. Especially her Kanjivaram silk sarees. Being from Chennai, she takes pride in representing her culture and showing her South Indian roots by wearing a Kanjivaram saree.

Anyway, if you are one of those who wonders why Rekha saree looks are captivating, then very soon, you're about to find out. In this blog, we will share all her saree secrets - from picking the right saree to draping, from choosing a blouse to the right jewellery - so you can look just as gorgeous as Rekha Ji.

The Rekha Ji Way To Drape A Saree

Like most Indian women, Rekha Ji usually wears her sarees in the classic Nivi style. But with some signature touches, she makes it unique:

• She always keeps her pleats neat and evenly spaced at the waist.

• The saree pallu is draped over the left shoulder with perfect symmetry

• She holds a graceful drape that flows beautifully when she moves.

A pro-tip for you:

We all know the annoying moment when we drape the saree perfectly, only for the pleats to come undone or the pallu to slip off. Now, here's a simple trick to make sure it never happens. Use a non-slip petticoat and secure your pleats with tiny 'safety pins' in a way that the pins are hidden under your saree.

Choosing The Right Blouse

Blouses are just as important as your sarees. If you want a striking look then you can choose a contrasting blouse colour; like a red colour saree with a golden yellow blouse. If, on the other hand, you want something elegant, something harmonious, then you can go with complementary tones; like a pink colour silk saree with a soft peach or rose pink blouse.

And, once you pick the colour, the next is different style of blouses.

Here are some of Rekha Ji's favourite styles:

The Classic High-Neck

You will often see Rekha ji dressed in an elegant high-neck blouse in contrasting colours, for example, deep reds with gold zari or emerald green with black borders. They often feature subtle textural details like small motifs or minimal embroidery, which don't overwhelm the saree.

The Dramatic Long-Sleeve 

For a royal vibe, Rekha ji picks full-sleeve brocade blouses with intricate but soft patterns. The sleeves are usually fitted to maintain the sleekness of her body outline (silhouette), which adds just the right amount of drama that makes everyone in the room turn their head and notice her presence.

Jewellery Heading

Rekha ji often mixes real and custom jewellery, and how can we forget her signature look with temple jewellery? However, we understand not all of us can invest in such expensive pieces.

For those wanting to recreate her regal style without overspending, here's what to do:

• First: Pick antique-style jhumkas or a choker; they give the same temple jewellery vibe.

• Second: Add a waist belt (or oddiyanam) to make your saree sit perfectly and show off your shape.

• Third: Complete your look with lots of gold or silver colour bangles.

Remember, true style isn't about expensive jewellery.

It's about how you carry yourself. The way you stand, the way you move, and the confidence you show. After all, the most beautiful jewellery any woman can wear isn't gold or diamonds... it's her confidence.

Where to Wear the Iconic Rekha Saree Look

If you're worried that carrying off Rekha's silk saree look will be too much or too extra, so it may make you feel awkward, then here are the right places to wear it to:

• Weddings and big parties: Pick a Kanjivaram saree with heavy zari work so everyone can notice how gorgeous you look

• Festivals: Go with comfy semi silk sarees that let you enjoy the celebrations while still looking put-together.

• Cultural events: Choose a traditional Kanjivaram or Banarasi silk saree to show respect to the traditions while looking regal.

For office wear or casual occasions, you can tone down the look with simpler fabrics and minimal jewellery while maintaining Rekha ji's elegance. How? It’s simple. Follow her signature draping style, those perfectly spaced pleats and graceful pallu, and choose blouses in her favourite high-neck or long-sleeve but in more understated fabrics.

Where To Find Rekha-Inspired Sarees?

At Deepam Silks, we specialise in authentic Kanjeevarams that mirror Rekha's iconic saree looks. What’s more, our collections don't just stop at Kanjivaram sarees, we have Banarasi, Mysore silk, Tussar, Chanderi sarees, and so much more.

So whether you wish to recreate Rekha’s saree look or simply wish to wear a saree that will make every head turn when you attend a special celebration, Deepam Silks has something for you.