Do not fret over what to wear at weddings this season. Cotton, khadi, tussar, light silks, mulls and chiffon are the way to go. Boutiques in Alwarpet offer a diverse range.  Here are our top picks

Shilpi

Over the last two decades, Shilpi has established itself as a go-to destination for saree shopping for its range that is suitable for both casual as well as occasional wear. It’s their experimental designs and the unique material blended from two weaves—tussar combined with matka silk or hand-block silk designs, or a tussar and gheecha blend—that make them a class-apart. They stock Bengal and Mangalgiri cotton sarees, Kalamkari sarees, Ajrak from Gujarat and the Pondhuri khadi sarees from Andhra. They also hold exhibitions periodically. For those looking for ethnic chic and not the run-of-the mill wear, Shilpi is the answer to all sartorial needs.

Location: 29, C P Ramsamy Rd, Alwarpet

Padma Paaduka

It is a  rustic store tucked away in the heart of Mylapore opposite the famed Anjaneya temple and seeks to firmly place handwoven elegance in the realm of ‘contemporary smart’, which is relevant and accessible to our thinking and culturally conscious society. It was set up in 2011 to bring identity fabrics into the urban spotlight. Carefully cultivated craft, consciously preserved weaves, innovatively integrated motifs – blend beautifully together in fabrics that equally uphold tradition and embrace modernity. It has a range of handwoven saris in beautiful ikkats, tussars, khadi, patola, Bhagalpuris and other exquisite varieties.  They also also showcase stoles and dupattas, as well as kurta and blouse fabrics.

Location: 138 Luz Church Road, Opp. Alwarpet Anjaneyar Temple

Anokhi


If you have had a chance to have a cup of coffee at Chamiers Room in Alwarpet, you surely would have checked out the boutique in its premises called Anokhi.  It deals in gorgeous East-meets-West hand-block-printed clothes and accessories and has been working earnestly towards revival of traditional textiles. Over the years, it  has not only revived the tradition of printing with hand blocks carved from wood, but has, through unique styles and a modern aesthetic, given it new life.

Location: New No 106, Old No 79, Chamiers Road, Alwarpet

Lakshmi

This boutique is located in a beautiful heritage bungalow and shopping here is an experience in itself as the place has a certain old-world charm. Lakshmi blends timeless art forms with contemporary designs to create elegant and stylish designs. The boutique pays an ode to India’s rich textiles and hand-embroidery. From cotton and silk Chandheris, ikkats, bandhini and ajrak sarees to Benarasi and Dhaka muslin dupattas, the store has it all.

Location: 18, Seethammal Road, Alwarpet

Aavaranaa

Aavaranaa gets you the range of designer sarees at reasonable prices. You can do online saree shopping or visit their store. Started about a decade ago the magnificent range of sarees, are made by experienced craftsmen. They have a terrific collection of Chanderi, Kota, crepe, chiffon, cotton, organza, Maheshwari, tussar, georgette, Kanjeevaram silk and net sarees. The boutique intends to promote handlooms and make Kancheevarams more wearable n Chennai weather. They have interesting chiffon sarees with Kanjeevaram borders, half chiffon and half Kanjeevaram sarees and have even incorporated Kalamkar on Kanjeevarams. They even have a unique outfit called the dhoti saree-a three piece outfit that includes a saree, pants and blouse. Do check out!

Location: CV Raman Road, Alwarpet