If you've ever wondered how we make a sharara, this is your backstage pass. From the first pencil sketch to the last hand-tucked hem, a sharara's journey blends design, technique, and tiny decisions that add up to a statement outfit. In this post I'll walk you through every stage — practical tips, a short case example, and the real hands-on steps our seamstresses use.
Why process matters: design, fit, and finish
A sharara is more than a wide-leg silhouette; it's a coordinated system of cut, fabric, ornamentation, and tailoring. Good process ensures the fit flatters, the fall (drape) behaves, and the embroidery sits where it should. Quality comes from decisions made long before the needle hits the cloth.
Key outputs from a strong process
A clear design blueprint (sketch + tech pack).
Consistent sizing and grading.
Predictable material behaviour (shrinkage, drape).
Repeatable finishing details (linings, hems, closures).
Stage 1: Inspiration & sketching (the design brief)
Everything starts with a brief. The brief can be a client request, a seasonal theme, a fabric sample, or even a wedding palette.
Steps we follow
Collect mood & reference images. Save color chips, trims, and silhouettes.
Quick thumbnail sketches. Produce 6–10 rough ideas to explore proportion.
Select 1–2 concepts. Choose the strongest silhouette and ornament direction.
Create the final sketch. A clean front/back sketch with notes: fabric, length, waist type, flare.
Tip (practical): use a two-column sketch sheet — left for silhouette, right for close ups of embroidery/pleats. This avoids confusion at production.
Stage 2: Tech pack & pattern planning
A tech pack translates the sketch into measurable instructions for production.
What the tech pack contains
Quick pattern planning
Decide on panel count for the sharara: common options are 4, 6, or 8 panels — more panels = smoother flare but more seams.
Map seam lines so motifs/embroidery avoid seams when needed.
Consider lining and interlining; a lota or sheer fabric needs lining for modesty and support.
Actionable step: mark the embroidery placement with pattern notches. When you cut, you'll have matching guides for artisans (reduces wasted fabric).
Stage 3: Fabric selection & pre-production tests
Choosing the right fabric is the difference between a sharara that "floats" and one that "stutters" mid-dance.
Common fabrics and why we pick them
Practical test (must do): always perform a pre-wash & shrinkage test. Cut a 10×10 cm swatch, wash it as the garment will be laundered, measure dimensional change. This prevents surprise size changes later. (If you use shrinkage % numbers in copy, list your test source.) — requires source if you cite exact typical shrinkage values.
Stage 4: Prototyping — the sample sharara
Before large cutting, we make a sample. This is the chance to check proportion, stitch choices, and fit.
The sample process
Cut a muslin / toile using the pattern to check silhouette.
Assemble quickly with basting stitches.
Fit on a model or dress form; note waist height, hip allowance, and panel seam placement.
Revise pattern and update the tech pack.
Tip: for shararas, test movement — have the model sit, walk, twirl. The sharara should part and fall gracefully, not balloon awkwardly.
Stage 5: Embellishment & embroidery planning
Decoration can be pre-embroidered panels, hand embroidery after stitching, or applique borders.
How we decide the method
Actionable tip: when designing motifs, leave clear seam-safe zones (at least 1–1.5 cm) so embroidery doesn't get mangled in seams.
Practical step-by-step (embroidery placement)
Lay pattern flat over embroidered fabric.
Align motifs with design marks.
Pin pattern and mark center lines with chalk.
Cut with embroidery motifs aligned — always cut one panel at a time for motif accuracy.
Stage 6: Cutting, marking & assembly
Once fabric and panels are ready, cutting and accurate marking are critical.
Cutting checklist
Marking & basting
Transfer notches and embroidery marks with thread tacking or chalk.
Baste seams first and check fit before machine/sewing.
For delicate fabrics, use a backing or stabilizer while stitching.
Step-by-step: basic sharara assembly
Join panels — press seams open after sewing.
Attach waistband or yoke as per design (drawstring, elastic, fixed waist).
Hem the legs — use micro-hem for light fabrics or a wider hem with lining for heavier ones.
Add closures: hooks, zips, or ties.
Final press and quality check.
Stage 7: Finishing touches, lining & quality check
Finishing is where the garment becomes wearable and durable.
Lining & hemming
Choose lining to match weight and opacity.
Hem allowances: typically 1–2 cm for narrow hems, 4–6 cm if there's a decorative border.
Quality checklist (QC)
Bold takeaway: A great sharara feels comfortable to move in and looks intentional in every stitch.
Case study: "Riya's wedding sharara" (real-world example)
Riya asked for a sharara that felt traditional but could be worn after her wedding. We started with her moodboard — marigold and ivory, with subtle zari borders and a lightweight georgette flare.
What we did:
- Chose 6 panels for a soft curve.
- Used pre-embroidered border panels for speed, then added handwork near the hem for a personal touch.
- Lined with soft cotton silk so Riya could dance all night.
Result: the sharara photographed well, packed compactly, and — most importantly — matched Riya's brief: wearable and special.
Note: this short case shows how client goals influence every production step.
3 Practical tips every maker should use
Sustainability & small-batch practices
Making shararas responsibly means minimizing waste and choosing durable materials.
Practical small-batch steps:
- Use fabric offcuts to create matching clutch purses or internal stabilizers.
- Choose natural fibers where possible for biodegradability.
- Pre-plan panel layouts to reduce offcut waste.
Tip: label garments with care instructions tailored to the fabric so customers maintain their sharara longer.
Pricing, lead times & what affects them
Three main cost drivers:
- Fabric quality and amount.
- Embellishment complexity (handwork is costlier).
- Batch size (small batches raise per-piece cost).
Clarity pass: exact lead time varies widely by region and workload — for an accurate timeline, confirm with your maker. (requires source if you state typical lead times numerically.)
From studio to customer: packaging & care notes
Packaging is the last brand touchpoint.
Suggested packing:
- Acid-free tissue paper to wrap the sharara.
- Breathable garment bag.
- Small card with care instructions and a personalized note.
Care note example (short): Dry clean recommended for heavy embroidery; gentle hand wash for light georgette with similar colors.
Conclusion — Key takeaways & CTA
Quick takeaways:
- Design clarity and a strong tech pack save time.
- Prototyping and movement tests prevent unhappy surprises.
- Thoughtful finishing ensures durability and customer delight.
If you want a behind-the-scenes look at a current project, sign up for our studio updates or book a consultation to sketch your dream sharara. Try this: if you have a photo or a moodboard, send it and we'll sketch a quick concept.
Ready to Create Your Dream Sharara?
Let's turn your vision into a beautifully crafted garment. Share your ideas and we'll bring them to life.
Shop NowFAQ
FAQ 1: How long does it take to make a sharara?
Depends widely on fabric and embellishment; a simple machine-stitched sharara can be made in a few days, while hand-embroidered pieces take weeks. (Confirm exact lead time with your maker.)
FAQ 2: Can I get a custom fit without extra cost?
Many studios include one fitting in the price; additional fittings or extensive alterations may cost more.
FAQ 3: Is a lining necessary for every sharara?
Not always. Lightweight sheer fabrics usually need lining; heavy brocades may not. It's a design and modesty decision.
FAQ 4: How do I care for an embroidered sharara?
Follow the garment's care label — generally dry clean for heavy embroidery; gentle hand wash for light work.
FAQ 5: Can shararas be altered later if needed?
Minor alterations (shortening, waist adjustments) are usually possible; large changes to panel count or silhouette are harder.
