Do you remember watching your mother with awe as she skilfully draped a saree? How you loved going through her saree collection, dreaming of the day you would have one of your own. As a little girl, you may not have realized that once you started collecting and draping these six-yard wonders, you would be spoiled for choice.
India’s rich cultural diversity has given rise to different types of sarees, from traditional weaves to modern designs. While you may be familiar with some of the most popular ones, do you know them all? If not, you are in the right place! In this article, we take you on a journey through the mesmerising world of sarees, exploring the many styles that make Indian fashion truly unique.
Everlasting Grace: What Makes Sarees Timeless
Sarees have been adorning Indian women since time immemorial. Even the changing fashion scene could not diminish their popularity, and they continue to be a staple in every woman’s wardrobe. Here’s why:
● Rooted in Culture
The six-yard wonder has been around for ages. Over the years every region created its unique weaving method and draping technique. Thus, a saree is an ode to the flawless craftsmanship developed over the years.
● Versatile Choice
What makes sarees really endearing is that you can never go wrong with them. No matter what the occasion, drape a saree, and you are ready to go. From work to shopping and parties, the six-yard asset works everywhere.
● Perfect for All
Are you always mindful when picking clothes, ensuring they are perfect for your body shape? With a saree, you can stop worrying about it. This elegant drape is ideal for every body type.
● Endless Fabric and Design Options
The various types of saree offer you a vivid choice of fabrics and designs. From luxurious silk to lightweight cotton and breezy georgette, there is a drape to suit every preference. Also, the diversity of designs and embellishments ensures that you will find sarees suitable for every occasion, be it casual or formal.
Unravelling the Saree Spectrum: Know the Various Types of Sarees
The cultural diversity of India is not confined to languages and food. It also seeped into the fashion scene, making way for different varieties of saree. With their unique fabric choices, designs, and weaving techniques, these find space in every modern wardrobe. Let us take a look at the iconic sarees of India:
● Banarasi Saree (Uttar Pradesh)
This silk saree originated in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, and is traditionally woven with gold and silver threads. It is known for its intricate zari work that features elaborate patterns and floral motifs inspired by the Mughals.
● Kanjeevaram Saree (Tamil Nadu)
Kanjeevaram saree is called the “Queen of Indian Sarees” and is majorly woven in the Kanchipuram district in Tamil Nadu. It is made from pure mulberry silk and looks rich and luxurious. It is woven with the Ikkat technique using gold and silver threads, creating a unique design and pattern.
● Paithani Saree (Maharashtra)
The Paithani Saree gets its name from the city of Paithan in Maharashtra. It is made from fine silk and is known for its vibrant colours, peacock motifs, and elaborate zari work. Traditionally, this six-yard saree is worn at weddings, festivals, and religious occasions.
● Bandhani Saree (Gujarat)
The beauty of the Bandhani saree lies in its stunning design, which is created by tying small knots in the fabric and then dying it. The result is an impressive pattern of dots, stripes, and waves. Made from cotton or silk, these are available in vibrant hues. Its stunning design is popular not only in India but across the world.
● Muga Saree (Assam)
Among the diff types of sarees in India, Muga saree is definitely one of the prettiest. Crafted from wild silk that is found only in Assam, it is woven with gold and silver thread. The weaving technique was developed with the aim of designing sturdy clothing for ladies working as labourers on farms, etc. However, the Muga saree, with its subtle shimmer and glossy texture, became a favourite of the royals. The variety worn by the Assamese brides is the most famous of all.
● Bomkai Saree (Odisha)
Though this saree gets its name for having originated in Bomkai village in Ganjam district of Odisha, it is primarily made in Subarnapur district. Crafted by the Bhulia community, you will find both cotton and silk varieties of this drape. These are characterised by the fish design on the border, which is believed to be symbolic of success and wealth. Featuring elaborate threadwork on the pallu and border, it has a tribal essence to it.
● Tant Saree (West Bengal)
Airy and lightweight, the tant saree from West Bengal is ideal for its hot and humid weather. Woven from cotton thread, it is known for its crisp texture and decorative border. A staple in every Bengali woman's wardrobe, this is perfect for everyday wear as well as for special occasions.
● Gadwal Saree (Telangana)
What makes Gadwal saree different from other types of drapes is that its body is made from cotton, while its pallu is made from silk. Hence, while it has a lightweight body, the elaborate silk pallu with stunning zari work makes it look regal.
● Chanderi Saree (Madhya Pradesh)
The Chanderi saree gets its name from the northern town of Chanderi in Madhya Pradesh. Easily identifiable by its sheer texture, luxurious look, and lightweight feel, it is a blend of silk and cotton threads. The Chanderi saree usually features nature-inspired designs and traditional motifs.
● Pochampally Saree (Telangana)
This is a handwoven saree where the weaver makes use of the Ikkat or tie-and-dye weaving technique and some natural dyes. The technique makes use of a fabric called Pochampally, which transfers the design or pattern to the warp. Pochampally saree is known for its unique geometric prints and vibrant hues.
● Kota Doria Saree (Rajasthan)
You can easily identify a Kota Doria saree by its square patterns called Khats. It is designed with a special hand-weaving technique, which makes it extremely light and airy while also giving it a glossy finish. Crafted from cotton silk fabric, it is a top choice for summer.
● Kasavu Saree (Kerala)
This beautiful saree from Kerala looks stunning with its unique weaving and intricate gold embroidery. While the traditional Kasavu saree is white or off-white, you can now find it in different shades of pink and yellow. Available in both cotton and silk varieties, women usually wear it to temples and for weddings.
● Nauvari Saree (Maharashtra)
Nauvari means “nine yards” in Marathi. This saree was first made by the weavers of Nauvar in Maharashtra. Featuring a fine weave woven from cotton and silk, it is often embellished with zari, embroidery, and mirrorwork. It is draped in a unique manner, which offers freedom of movement.
● Chikankari Saree (Uttar Pradesh)
This saree originated in Lucknow and is a very expensive saree owing to the intricate embroidery work that takes several days to complete. This hand-embroidered drape was introduced by the Mughals and popularised by the Awadh royal family. Hence, the Chikankari saree has a classic and regal appeal.
● Phulkari Saree (Punjab)
Phulkari means “flower work” and is a traditional embroidery of Punjab. This vibrant saree is handwoven using gold and silver threads. It features flowers, leaves, and geometric patterns.
● Pashmina Saree (Jammu and Kashmir)
Crafted from the premium cashmere woollen fabric that is attained from four different types of mountain goats, the Pashmina saree is very soft and smooth. Usually worn during winter, it features traditional Kashmiri embroidery known as Kashida.
● Baluchari Saree (West Bengal)
Primarily made from silk, the Baluchari saree originated in Baluchar in Murshidabad district. The intricate designs and embroidery on the body and pallu depict scenes from Hindi mythology, such as Ramayana and Mahabharata.
● Mysore Silk Saree (Karnataka)
The Mysore silk saree is designed from pure silk and is known for its minimal yet sophisticated zari work and rich colour choices. Lightweight and easy to drape, this is a perfect choice for weddings and festivals.
When Trend Meets Tradition: The Modern Types of Sarees
While sarees are a popular choice of attire, the changing fashion preferences have led designers to create sarees in sync with contemporary trends. The modern types of sarees blend elegance with comfort, featuring comfortable fabrics and fresh designs. Let us take a look at some of the popular varieties:
● Printed and Designer Sarees
Printed sarees are lightweight and easy to drape. They feature abstract, floral, or geometric prints. Designer sarees, on the other hand, are adorned with embroidery and embellishments and are perfect for formal events and parties.
● Georgette and Chiffon Sarees
These sarees are ideal for daily wear as they are made from light, airy materials. Chiffon sarees are sheer, whereas georgette sarees have a textured appearance. Being comfortable and stylish, these are the most popular options in the summer.
● Half-and-Half Sarees
These are gorgeous outfits that have contrasting colours or patterns on the pleats and pallu. They give a new depth to the ensemble and are a contemporary interpretation of conventional drapes.
● Ready-to-Wear Sarees
You need some time to wear a saree and get the pleats right. So, when you are in a hurry, ready-to-wear sarees are the best choice. With pre-pleated sections, you can drape them within minutes. What’s more, they look just as good as the traditional ensemble.
Drape it Your Way: Revealing Different Saree Draping Styles
The variation is not confined to the regions creating their unique drapes. Rather, there are different types of draping saree techniques. Sounds interesting? Well, here are some of the most common draping techniques:
● Nivi Style
This draping style originated in Andhra Pradesh and is the most popular one in India and across the world. In Nivi style, you make pleats in the front, which are then tucked into your waist. The pallu comes from the right and is pinned on the left shoulder. If you want easy movement, this is the best saree draping style for you.
● Seedha Pallu
This is a traditional saree draping technique unique to Gujarat and Rajasthan. In this, the pallu is brought from the back, over your right shoulder, and spread across the front. This drape is usually preferred during festive occasions and traditional events.
● Nauvari Style
For draping the saree in Nauvari style, you need a 9 metre long Nauvari saree. This is a unique draping technique. The pleats are gathered and taken from between the legs to be tucked at the back of the petticoat. The pallu is brought to the front and pinned on the left shoulder, just like in the Nivi style.
● Bengali Style
The Bengali saree draping style gives it a regal appearance. It has wide pleats in the front and pallu draped over the shoulder without pleats. It is typically embellished with a brooch or a keyring. This is the most sought-after style for Durga Puja celebrations and weddings.
● Kodagu Style
This is the traditional saree draping technique of the local women in Coorg. In this, the pleats are tucked at the back, offering ease of movement. The pallu is draped straight around the body and then secured on the right shoulder. This is the most common way the Kodava women dress up for special occasions.
Saree Blunders: Common Mistakes to Avoid
A saree gives you an elegant, graceful appeal. However, avoiding a few common mistakes ensures that you keep up its charm. Here are some errors you can do without:
● Picking the Wrong Fabrics
You cannot wear any saree, anytime. Though heavy silk sarees appear regal, they are cumbersome to handle, particularly if you do not wear them frequently. Chiffon and georgette are light but not suitable for formal occasions. Cotton sarees tend to wrinkle and, therefore, need some attention while draping.
● Wearing a Poor Fitting Blouse
Your blouse forms the perfect backdrop for your saree. Therefore, you need to choose it carefully. A tight blouse is uncomfortable, whereas a loose blouse will make the drape look negligent. Always choose a fitted blouse that goes well with your saree.
● Improper Draping and Pleating
If you haven’t draped and pleated your saree properly, it can mar your entire look. Make sure to keep your pleats even that are neither too long, nor too short. Also, tuck your saree snugly and pin the pleats.
● Ignoring What’s Underneath
A poorly fitted or mismatched petticoat might ruin the drape and silhouette of your saree. Therefore, avoid petticoats that are overly tight or loose. Choose one that is a shade closer to the colour of your saree and fits you well. Select silk or satin petticoats for sheer sarees.
Conclusion
The different types of sarees in India is a proof of its diversity. Whether you want something exuberant for a wedding or flashy for a party, you will find a six-yard beauty for every occasion. Also, try the different types of saree wear to give yourself a fresh look. So, go out and shop for sarees from various regions of the country. Don’t forget that each saree is a heritage item steeped in history.
FAQs
Which is the most expensive saree in India?
The most expensive sarees are handwoven from fine silk and embellished with zari work, such as Banarasi and Kanjeevaram. The most expensive saree, according to Guinness World Records, is the Vivaha Pattu, a Kanjeevaram saree that costs ₹40 lakhs.
What are fusion sarees?
Fusion sarees are a modern version of the conventional sarees. They incorporate some new touches that are in line with the current fashion. Ready-to-wear sarees, jacket-style sarees, dhoti-style sarees, etc., are some examples of this attire.
What is the right way to store silk sarees?
Store your silk sarees in special saree bags or a muslin cloth. Make sure to keep them in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Air them every six months and refold them to avoid creases and cracks in the zari.