Are Crochet Varmalas The New Symbol Of Sustainable Weddings?

Varmalas or Jaimalas have always been an integral part of Indian weddings. Made from fresh flowers like orchids, marigolds and even roses, these mark a fresh beginning for the couple and symbolise joy and beauty. However, as the couple today seeks to give a modern spin to every element at an Indian wedding to make it more personalised and unique, that speaks to their personalities; even the varmalas are not left behind.

The ritual garland that the bride and groom exchange as their first expression of union made from fresh flowers, has long been used during the ritual but a new trend has taken over couples as they embrace crochet varmalas, handcrafted garlands that are made of yarn flowers that look like roses, marigolds or orchids, and the best part about them is that they never fade. A quiet revolution that brings together tradition and sustainability, these varmalas are usually made by artisans who patiently stitch each motif, including petals, leaves, and buds, before stringing them together with ribbons, pearls, or tiny embellishments. 

Why Are Couples Opting For Crochet Varmalas?

These varmalas are light, customisable and easy to ship to people who live abroad and are getting married across multiple venues without having to worry about fresh heavy garlands or any kind of damage. What sets these varmalas apart is that these can be reused and even preserved as keepsakes of their wedding day memories. Besides its uniqueness and ability to be personalised, these varmalas also cater to the growing need for sustainable options at weddings where brides and grooms want their wedding day to reflect their eco-friendly approach. 

While traditional flower garlands carry a symbolism, they also involve large-scale waste and higher logistics but the crochet varmalas, mostly crafted out of cotton or acrylic yarn, sidestep those concerns while still following traditions and offering the visual richness of traditional garlands.

An appeal that is deeply rooted in the conscious wedding movement, these varmalas are mostly crafted by small studios or women-led businesses, including Enchanted Threads, Gul Jaipur, and Zain’s Story. These brands, now gaining prominence on Instagram, Pinterest and wedding blogs with their exclusive designs, are turning a niche craft into an evident option for couples across the country who wish to choose a more sustainable option when it comes to their varmala ceremony. 

Mostly handmade, these varmalas can be designed to fit the taste of the couple and can even be made with embellishments and into elaborate designs according to the requirements. Crochet varmalas are now growing into a trend, keeping in mind the global influences and with sustainability at their core. They honour tradition while staying with the couple as an everlasting memory of their big day.