If you’re an Indian woman, you must-have adorned yourself in a saree at some point in your life. You would probably agree that nothing quite matches the elegance and grandeur of this nine-yard wonder. The popularity of sarees is not just restricted to weddings and festivals. Bollywood beauties have also adorned themselves in beautiful sarees and won millions of hearts. Whether it is your BFF’s wedding or ‘Ethnic Day’ at your office, you can never go wrong with a saree. Once you get a hang of draping it well, you will vouch for the fact that a saree is quite comfortable. Has it been a while since you indulged in some saree shopping? If yes, then it’s time you stocked up on some stylish sarees. Wondering which brands to opt for? Checkout the sarees online collection from Divastri, Madhushree Textiles, DigiStall, dwitstyle, Ellegent, Thara Sarees and more. These brands boast quality materials and they have consistently received positive reviews from consumers.
To help you make an informed buying decision, let us have a look at some of the popular types of sarees:
Kanjivaram Sarees
Woven from pure mulberry silk, Kanjivaram sarees have their origins in the small town of Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu. It is believed that two major weaving communities from Andhra Pradesh - the Devangas and Saligars migrated to the town of Kanchipuram and used their excellent weaving skills to make these sarees. Soon after, these sarees rose to prominence and became quite popular with the ladies. The silk thread that’s used to weave a Kanjivaram saree is dipped in rice water and sun dried before it is used. This helps increase the thickness and stiffness of the saree. The pallu, the border and the body of a Kanjivaram saree is often woven separately and then they are joined together with precision. These sarees generally feature designs of the scriptures and figurines inspired from the temples in Kanchipuram. Often, the border of the saree and its body are in total contrast. So, the next time you’re attending a wedding and confused about what to wear, drape yourself in an elegant Kanjivaram saree and get ready for compliments.
Banarasi Sarees
The holy city of Banaras has been an important hub for weaving since time immemorial. Post independence, several small scale industries grew in the region and that’s when Banarasi sarees became popular. Adorned with gold and silver zari work, Banarasi sarees are available in a wide range of colors. Banarasi sarees are classified in to jangla, tanchoi, vaskat, cutwork, tissue and butidar on the basis of design. Originally woven for royalty, Banarasi sarees were made with real gold and silver threads. Owing to the intricate detailing, it used to take more than a year to finish weaving one Banarasi saree. These sarees are quite heavy and have a regal vibe associated with them.
Bandhani Sarees
Bandhani, an ancient art has its earliest references dating back to 4000 BC. From weddings to birth ceremonies, Bandhani is considered very auspicious. This art is quite famous in Gujarat and Rajasthan. These flowy sarees are apt for summers and will keep you comfortable all day long. Leheriya is similar to Bandhani; the only difference is in the dyeing process. If you’re looking for something light yet elegant to wear at a casual occasion, a Bandhani saree is your go-to option. Pair them with the right accessories to be the centre of attraction at a traditional party.
Paithani Sarees
Named after a small town called Paithan in Aurangabad, Paithani sarees are made of exquisite silk. A traditional Paithani saree is often characterized by wide borders and peacock designs. Some sarees also feature designs inspired from the architecture of Ajanta Caves. Depending on the border and the pallu, a paithani saree takes around two months to one year to be prepared. Grand and elegant, these sarees often feature zari borders and fine motifs. Pair a Paithani saree with a pearl choker set and ace the ethnic look.
Bhagalpuri Sarees
Famous for their superior quality and striking resilience, Bhagalpuri sarees showcase the real essence of Bhagalpur, a small town in Bihar. These nine yard beauties, created by skilled and creative professionals reflect the Indian culture in the best possible way. Featuring compact weaving patterns, golden borders, traditional motifs and stylish patterns, these sarees exude beauty. Also, known as Tussar silk sarees, Bhagalpuri sarees redefine elegance. Perfect for almost all kinds of occasions, these sarees are a must-have in your ethnic wardrobe.
Shop According to Your Body Type
Certain styles tend to suit certain body types better. Women with apple-shaped bodies can consider buying silk sarees. Silk sarees will give you a balanced look and they will help draw attention away from your problem areas. If you’re on the slimmer side, a cotton saree can provide you the look of a fuller figure. If you’re tall, you can opt sarees with heavy borders for a balanced look. Women on the shorter side can go for light-colored sarees with vertical prints and short borders. Women with pear-shaped bodies (heavy bottom as compared to their upper body), should go for fabrics like chiffon and georgette. Stay away from mermaid cuts as that would attract attention to your lower body. If you are on the heavier side, never go for cotton or other stiff fabrics. They make you appear larger. Go for chiffon or silk instead. Dark colours look the best on you. If you have a curvy figure, go for fabric that will cling to your body, like georgette and chiffon. They will wrap snugly around your body highlighting those curves!
Fabric and Pattern
If you’re someone who likes to keep it simple and comfy, then a cotton saree is your go-to option. Of you’re looking something graceful yet comfortable, then go for a silk saree. For winters, velvet sarees make for a great option. Basically, make a pick according to the weather and occasion. Get a little experimental and go for sarees with interesting prints, such as animal print, checkered print, digital prints and more. Go for Bandhani prints if you would like to keep it traditional. It has been around since the time of Indus Valley Civilization and can be seen on every other woman in Gujarat and Rajasthan. It mainly features dots formed by first tying small portions of fabric with continuous thread to form beautiful patterns and then dyeing it. This method is hence called Tie-Dye method. The Leheriya print is also a result of the same method, but instead of dots, the final result is bright and elaborate waves.
Colours can make or break your look
Colours play a very important role when we choose what to wear. It is the colour that gives out a certain vibration that others around us can pick up. So choose your colour very carefully!
1. In India, red sarees are synonymous to weddings and celebrations. It is a symbol for passion and sensuality as well. Red is a colour that attracts like no other, hence brides are seen wearing red in atleast one of their functions. Not just for weddings, you can choose red sarees for other occasions too. A solid red georgette saree with a black lace blouse is a great option for date night if you want to go traditional yet a bit bold.
2. Pink sarees exude femininity. There is something delicate and innocent about the colour. It is always a good option for a date if you want to keep your look understated yet eye-catching. Oxidized silver jewellery looks great with a pink saree.
3. Black sarees can never go out of fashion just how any other black clothing won’t. Black represents power and confidence. You are sure to feel charged up in a black saree. Wear it with a muted gold blouse for a vintage look. Team it up with a few silver bangles. You can’t go wrong with black!
4. We love yellow sarees for they are so fresh and vibrant to look at! They are perfect for day-time functions like a Haldi or Mehendi. In summer, yellow sarees are sure to emit a rejuvenated vibe. Wear it for yourself and feel the energy!
5. Blue symbolises peace and tranquility. Blue sarees have a calming quality about them which you and those around you can automatically feel. Wear a solid blue georgette saree with a silver cut-out blouse and watch heads turn.
6. There is something timeless about a white saree. A white saree with a golden border and golden blouse is tradition at its best. Symbolising purity, white can do wonders to your look. Although it is not a very bold colour, it still possesses the power to attract because of its simplicity. There is nothing more elegant that a white lace saree with a golden cut-out blouse. Team it up with a pair of golden Chandbalis and golden heels.
You can never wrong with this combination!
Try it today!
