Clothing Upcycling & Transformation
Shipped across India
I turn your old sarees, dupattas, and special clothes into new outfits or keepsakes, so you can wear your memories instead of storing them.
Pricing Guide
Saree-to-Western Transformation (Jumpsuits & Co-ords)
Design & Engineering
- Motif Mapping: Strategic consultation to map the saree pallu and borders onto bodices, yokes, or belts.
- Pattern Making: Specialized western drafting for non-stretch silks to ensure durability at stress points (crotch/armholes).
- Silhouette Options: Choice of Jumpsuit, Maxi Dress, or Peplum Top with Skirt co-ord set.
Materials & Construction
- Protective Lining: Includes 3.5 to 4 meters of premium Butter Crepe or American Crepe to prevent transparency and fabric tearing.
- Structure: Built-in padded bust cups and fused canvas in collars and belts for stiffness.
- Hardware: Heavy-duty concealed zippers (YKK) and hooks.
- Reinforcement: Double-stitching on all stress points and overlocked inner seams to prevent fraying.
Fit Customization
- Measurements: Made-to-measure construction based on 15+ body data points.
Traditional Saree-to-Lehenga or Anarkali Conversion
Restoration & Cutting
- Fabric Reinforcement: Inspection and fusing of weak spots in vintage sarees before stitching.
- Volume Cutting: Kalidar (panel) cutting technique to maximize flare using the full length of the saree.
- Border Work: Detaching, flattening, and precision re-attachment of borders at the hemline.
Structure & Layers
- Volume Netting: Inclusion of a hard net (Can-Can) layer in the skirt for wedding-style flare and shape.
- Lining: Dual lining layers (Crepe/Santoon) to support heavy embroidery and prevent snagging.
- Blouse Support: Includes padded bust cups and custom neckline design.
Finishing
- Latkans: Custom handmade fabric tassels created from leftover saree scraps for the back dori and waist.
- Dupatta Sourcing: Advice on matching contrast dupattas if the original pallu is used for the blouse (dyeing included, fabric extra).
Heirloom Kidswear Upcycling (0 to 10 Years)
Design Strategy
- Heritage Usage: Strategic placement of ornate pallu or borders on the child's bodice or hem.
- Style Options: Creation of Pattu Pavadai, Anarkali frocks, Kurta Pajama, or modern dresses.
- Accessories: Creation of matching hairbands, bows, or potli bags from fabric scraps (subject to availability).
Comfort & Safety
- Skin Protection: Full inner lining of pre-washed 100% Mulmul or pure cotton to prevent zari irritation.
- Kid-Friendly Trims: Soft waist elastics and durable buttons or soft zippers.
- Safety Check: Removal of sharp sequins and trimming of all loose internal threads.
Fit & Longevity
- Growth Allowance: Inclusion of an extra 1.5-inch inner margin to allow size loosening as the child grows.
About Clothing Upcycling & Transformation
Maare Kapda Matching, Manda Matching...
I always say this in Gujarati to explain my approach. It's not just about matching kapda (clothes), it's about matching emotions. Every old dupatta or saree lying in your trunk has a story. I don't see old clothes, I see memories waiting to be lived again. Why should they just collect dust?
More Than Upcycling
For me, it's not only about sustainability. It's about that special feeling when you wear your ma ki saree (mom's saree), but now as a dress you actually want to wear out. That’s sentimental outfit transformation at its core.
What Can We Make?
- Heirloom saree redesign: Maybe your mom's wedding saree becomes a jumpsuit or a cute skirt and top set.
- Baby ka pehla dress (baby’s first dress) - I can turn that into a cap, a pouch, or even a small keepsake for you.
- Got a kurta or shirt you love but never wear? Let’s brainstorm and create something you’ll use again.
How I Work
- You tell me the story behind your kapda and what you’d like to see it become.
- We chat, I sketch, and together we pick a design.
- I get to work - carefully taking apart, then stitching up your custom memory clothing.
Sometimes the fabric limits what we can do, but I’ll always be honest about it. Most of all, I want to help you wear your memories, not just store them.
Meet your Expert
Deepti Ramaiya
76 connects in last 3 months
My Story
Jai Shree Krishna! I’m Deepti. For me, Indian Dress Factory is pure emotion. I still think maa-ni sari (mom’s saree) is priceless, and I try to stitch that feeling into every piece. Upcycling old fabrics, making new memories - that’s my jam. Becoming a mom made me create comfy maternity dresses with hidden zips, so you can twin with your baby. I also teach stitching at Saheli Hobby Classes. Shine in what feels good, and bounce back stronger, always.
My Work
Custom Clothing for All Occasions - I stitch made-to-measure Indian dresses, kids ethnic wear, bridal outfits, party wear, and deity vastra.
Upcycled Saree Jumpsuits & Dresses - I love turning old sarees into stylish jumpsuits or dresses, giving old fabrics a fresh story.
Twinning Outfits for Moms & Kids - Matching mother-daughter outfits, twinning looks for sisters or little ones - double the fun, double the style!
Concealed Zip Maternity Dresses - My maternity and feeding dresses are comfy, practical, and beautiful, with hidden zips for easy feeding.
Saheli Hobby Classes - I teach stitching and design, so you can create your own clothes and enjoy the joy of making.