Sari For Change's Celebration of Banarasi Saris at House of Nala
Buhle Mbonambi
In a world where fashion is increasingly focused on sustainability and conscious consumerism, Sari for Change stands out as a beacon of thoughtful, purposeful design.
The South African brand founded by Rayana Edwards, is committed to creating a circular economy that intertwines tradition, sustainability, and empowerment for women.
Their latest collection, inspired by Banarasi saris — and now available at House of Nala in Sandton City—offers you the opportunity to embrace luxury fashion while making a positive impact.
At the heart of Sari for Change is the concept of upcycling. The brand takes Indian saris—heirlooms passed down from mothers, grandmothers, and aunts—and transforms them into modern garments that carry the weight of tradition. Each piece reflects the original sari’s craftsmanship, yet is reimagined for the contemporary wardrobe.
Rayana Edwards explains the brand’s mission beautifully:
"A discarded sari takes pride in an Indian closet. When this is handed to us, it is with the intent to empower a woman in need. The process from the giver/donor of the gently worn sari, to the upskilling of women in the townships, to the wearer, the conscious consumer, displays a circular economy in motion."
Each piece is a testament to the women who craft them—trained artisans who are mastering their skills through Sari for Change’s incubation programmes. These programmes provide a path toward self-sufficiency, allowing women to learn a monetisable skill, and, in some cases, start their own businesses. It’s fashion with a purpose, fashion that uplifts and inspires.
A Celebration of Banarasi Saris
The latest collection that has launched at House of Nala, is particularly special for its use of Banarasi saris—exquisite textiles that are handwoven with intricate designs and a rich cultural history. These saris are not just garments, but works of art that can take anywhere from 15 days to six months to complete.
"This range at House of Nala is about preserving the tradition, expressing the wealth of a woman, and bringing it to life in the now, displaying its beauty and grace. The twirl of our filled kimonos is about the dance of life as we shed our layers," Edwards explains.
It’s more than fashion—it’s a celebration of history, artistry, and womanhood.
Sustainability Meets Exclusivity
For the eco-conscious shopper, Sari for Change offers a truly unique proposition. Each sari is repurposed into a one-of-a-kind garment, making every piece exclusive to its wearer. There’s no mass production here—just thoughtful design and masterful craftsmanship.
"We would like for customers to think about how the upcycling of a heritage piece can be worn by all cultures differently, the impact of their purchase on how it can feed a family, and most importantly, the opportunity to invest in local manufacture," says Edwards.
When you purchase a piece from Sari for Change, you’re not just buying a garment—you’re investing in a movement that promotes sustainability, responsible fashion, and economic empowerment.
Craftsmanship at Its Finest
The intricate craftsmanship behind these garments is truly remarkable. Transforming a traditional sari into a modern blazer, kimono, or jacket is no simple task. Each piece undergoes a meticulous process, with the pallu—the most decorative part of the sari—often serving as the focal point of the design.
"The pallu is about one meter of the sari and is normally the showpiece or the last piece you drape when wearing the original sari. We ensure that it remains the showpiece, so often it informs our design, in this way honouring the original design of the sari," Edwards explains.
The result is a collection of modern, wearable art that retains the elegance and luxury of the original sari. These garments are not only beautiful, but they also serve as a bridge between tradition and modernity, femininity and structure.
This is your opportunity to make a statement—not just in fashion, but in how you contribute to the world. Discover the beauty, tradition, and empowerment that Sari for Change brings to life.