When In Doubt, Wear Ikat | Loom Tree

When In Doubt, Wear Ikat | Loom Tree

Prints and patterns are on trend for Spring Summer 2017, and one of my favourites is the Ikat on light and airy fabrics making it easy for you to stay trendy without letting the heat pull you down. The elaborate designs of Ikat bring to mind adjectives like printed, geometric, and cool & calm… and seem to be everywhere this summer, including scarves and jewellery, home decor, and even fun summer pants!

 

When In Doubt, Wear Ikat | Loom Tree

When In Doubt, Wear Ikat | Loom Tree

Ikat trousers paired with a striking Chikankari blouse and classic Kohlapuris. The Ikat pattern adds an exotic and jet-setting aesthetic while radiating a subtle charm and a vitalising energy.

 

What is it about Ikat that tugs at our heartstrings?

To me, it is the fact that this technique has been around for a long time and is being reinvented by fashion houses to make a larger impact in the modern scenario. The Ikat pattern exudes a charm of the traditional days of yore and yet fits so perfectly into upscale fashion pieces, as if they were meant to be. I perceive the complex yet striking pattern as blown up pixelated images that have been intricately crafted to create a thing of beauty. 🙂

 

When In Doubt, Wear Ikat | Loom Tree

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When In Doubt, Wear Ikat | Loom Tree

 

What is Ikat?

While time has eventually related Ikat with the pattern, it is originally the name of the dyeing and weaving technique that is used to create the pattern. Derived from its Indonesian name “Mengikat” which means “to tie” in Malay, this technique of tie-resist-dyed yarn involves the tying of threads before they are dyed, to create designs that are then woven into the fabric. This gives Ikat fabrics their signature blurred edges and creates patterns on both faces of the fabric. Single Ikat patterns are formed when only the warp yarn is dyed, while double Ikat patterns come about when both the warp and weft yarns are patterned… Like the double Ikat Patolas of Patan or absolutely simple and clean like the single Ikats of Andhra Pradesh.

 

When In Doubt, Wear Ikat | Loom Tree

When In Doubt, Wear Ikat | Loom Tree

When In Doubt, Wear Ikat | Loom Tree

 

Outfit Description: I’m seen in a pair of Loom Tree blue-solid mid-rise trousers that feature two pockets and a wide waistband with comfortable drawstring fastening. I’ve let the pattern steal the show by playing it down with a neutral blouse and a simple pair of Kohlapuris. As for the hint of pink on my lips, I’ve picked L’Oreal Paris Colour Riche Lip Colour which reflects my enthusiasm and joie de vivre.

Function: This is a perfect example of a pair of trousers that can go from work to date night. If you’re heading to the boardroom then pick a white tee and a blue or white blazer along with a smart pair of wedges to complete the look. But if you’ve got a date on your mind then play naughty with a white crop top and delicate heels. Overall, these Ikat patterned trousers are fun and super-comfortable, and I have no doubt will get a lot of use this season.

 

When In Doubt, Wear Ikat | Loom Tree

 

Are you planning to add the exotic Ikat to your wardrobe this season? Do you already own a beautiful Ikat piece or do you know designers who are working on this pattern? Then do share the links and pictures in the comments below, as I would love to hear from you!

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* I love bringing together a bunch of conflicting items and weaving my own sense of one-ness to them. *

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