Here's my Sonali in her new suit. It's a salwar kameeze made of a mottled maroon and blue chiffon with a printed gold foil design and a silky underlayer in maroon. Cobbled together from 2 patterns, a bodycon sweater dress and a pair of pants. All hand stitched because it was all too small to bother hauling out my old Kenmore. The trim is gold cord and sequins. I decided against a dupatta (veil/shawl) as I thought it might get hung up on the trim too much.
I'm thinking I may try a 'simulated' sari next. Simulated because trying to do the traditional wrap would end up just looking bulky. I have a vintage sari I got off ebay to use as fabric for a costume a couple years ago. It's nice and soft and silky...could actually be silk. I could do a couple layers for the skirt and then sew in a pleated section and attach a shoulder throw. I think I need to get her some better shoes. The glitter sandals that came with her original outfit are way too tight and a bitch to put on. I think a pair of plain gold sandals would work better.