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!
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. 🙂
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.
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.
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!
Your unrelenting confidence makes you work any look! Loom Tree would be so proud! ❤️
Such a sweet thing to say. Thank you, Chetna!
You come across like such a down to earth person, and your pictures are always amazing! I would def. buy your brand should you venture into designing in the future, Tanya. ✨
Aww ~ thank you so much, Sunder!
Looking great, as always! ❤️ I love checking out your fashion blogs, and I couldn’t be more happier to see you in Ikat! How do you manage to shoot such stunning pictures, by the way?!
You’re so sweet, Khushboo. Thank you so much!
Nice location, love your ensemble and you look stunning! ✨ I think it’s fair to say that this is my new favourite blog!
Thank you for your affectionate thoughts, Priyanka.
Oh my dear Ikat, I can’t stop adoring you… 🙂 I like your Ikat trousers; the weave is lovely and it goes perfectly with your gorgeous blouse! Oh and these photos are so interesting, must have been a fun shoot!
Thank you, Maria! So chuffed you like it. (It absolutely was!)
Beautiful editorial! Your photos remind me of my trip to Indonesia last year, which is always a good thing. 🙂
Many heartfelt thanks, Arjun!
The complicated ikat weave has always produced some of the most magnificent garments… Well, there is something so calming about this whole shoot – it makes me just want to lie by a pool all day and smell as beautiful as jasmine! ❤️
Happy to have your warm appreciation, Anuradha. I value it so.
These photos are amazing! Plus, your writing is so comfortable to read. I don’t know if that sounds weird. I just feel like I could read your pieces over and over again!
Thank you so much for the kind words and for dropping by, Suresh.
Such a serene location… Seeing cities through the eyes of those that call them home is so special – makes me want to visit and experience it all for myself! ✨
Thanks Abhishek! Hope your week is going well.
Such peace and serenity coming out of every short! ❤️ As a reader, I have loved seeing your blog grow, change and evolve! Keep inspiring, Tanya.
You are just the best, Shilpa! Thank you.
Love everything about your writing style! ✨ Great photos as well; I love the blue tones mixed in with the greenery in the background. Well done!
Thanks so much sweet soul!
Love everything about this – because who doesn’t like blue! And, there’s something to be said about the uniqueness and unparalleled beauty of Ikat! The efforts and skill of Ikat artisans/weavers needs a spotlight so that they can continue weaving these captivating motifs & fabrics. 🙂
Thank you for sharing, Suman. I deeply value your sentiments.
“Handmade is truly Heart made”… What a beautiful way to express your love for Handloom, Tanya. You have so wonderfully shot this ensemble, and you look elegant. ❤️
Aw ~ you’ve made my day, Niren! Thanks so much.
Ikkat and Chikankari; what a thoughtful combination. Absolutely loved the pictures, and you look exceptionally beautiful! ✨
Thanks so much, Sujata! Means a lot that you like it!