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Tips on Wearing Saris
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Saris
form a large part of the Indian tradition. Saris
suit almost every woman. Remember: Make clean pleats
and hold the drape well. Feel good to look good!
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Sari
- The Epitome of Style
The
sari is a traditional Indian garment worn by a large number of women
in India.
Though there are
a lot of western influences in the way people dress today, can
we deny the fact that an Indian woman looks absolutely stunning
in a sari?
There is something
about the sari that makes a woman look dignified, charming and every
bit stylish. Over the years, the saree has evolved into a fashion
statement, what with most fashion designers glorifying the look
and feel of this traditional garment. Bridal Saris are also extremely
popular in India, especially those designed by fashion designers.
What is a Sari (Saree)?
The sari or saree
in simplest terms, is an unstitched piece of cloth that varies between
5 and 9 yards and is worn by women. The sari is usually worn
on top of a petticoat and blouse.
Origin of Sarees
The origin of
a sari can be dated back in history and there are various references
of it during the Indus Valley Civilization. In more recent times,
it is believed that the women in most parts of India have been wearing
saris for many many years.
How to Wear a Sari?
A sari can be
worn in many ways - each region in India has its own distinct
style of draping a sari and this is what makes the sari an interesting
attire!
The
most common way to wear a sari is
by wrapping it around the waist from one side over the petticoat,
making clean pleats in the front - 6-7 depending on the length of
the loose end (pallu / palla) that you want, and then draping it
over the shoulder from front to back or back to front.
In more common terms,
these are called "seedha
palla" and "ulta
palla".
Just as there are different
styles of draping a sari, there are also various fabrics used and
their textures and prices vary depending on the quality-
Some commonly used
Fabrics for Sarees include -
Cotton, Crepe, Chiffon,
Chinnon, Georgette, Acrylic, Organdie, Nylon, Terrycot, Organza,
Tissue, Synthetic, Satin, Silk,
- If
you like light, airy saris, chiffon is the thing for you.
-
On special occasions like weddings, where there is an opportunity
to really dress up, women like wearing silk saris with heavy golden
borders.
Saris worn
in different regions are called by different names and worn differently.
Varieties
/ Styles of Saris in Different Regions / Cities of India -
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Maharashtra,
Karnataka etc - Maharashtrian Saris are 9 yards long
instead of the usual 6 yards and are worn like a dhoti.
The Maharashtrian style is quite distinct and women
wearing saris in this way can be easily identified as
those belonging to the state of Maharashtra.
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Andhra
Pradesh - Nivi Style sari is worn here.
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Tamil
Nadu - Here there is a Dravidian style of wearing
draping saris.
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Gujarat
- Predominantly in North India, women wear saris in
typical Gujrati style.
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Kerala
- women belonging to Kerala wear a two-piece sari.
-
The women
in ancient times,
especially the tribal women wore sarees by tying them
across the chest.
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Well Known Varieties
of Indian Saris
Specialty Sarees from South India (Karnataka, Andhra
Pradesh) - Pochampally,
Kanjeevaram, Venkatgiri, Narayanpet, Mysore Silk, Gadwal, Patola
Beautiful
Varieties of Traditional Work on Saris from West Bengal, India -
Dhaniakali, Tant, Katha, Baluchari,
Dhakai, Tangail
Rich
looking Saris to be treasured forever from Benares -
Banarasi
Saris - Jamdani, Tanchoi, Bridal
Brocade
Popular
Saris / Special Work on Saris from Bihar, India - Madhubani,
Applique - hand made by traditional artists
Saris from Assam, India - Ikkat,
Gold Muga Silks
Orissa
Saris - Cuttaki, Patola
Typical
Work on Saris from Rajasthan, India - Kota,
Bandhni, Bagroo, Moonga
Traditional
/ hand work on Saris from Punjab
- Phulkari
Gujarati
Style Sarees from the state of Gujrat, India -
Mirror Work Saris, Bandhani, Ikat, Patola, Gharchola
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Immensely
popular saris from Lucknow - Chickan
Work Saris, Embroidery Sarees
Saris
from Madhya Pradesh -
Chanderi
Saris
from Maharashtra - Paithani
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When it comes to wearing
saris, the choice is unlimited. Each style of sari is specific to
the state it comes from and is easily identifiable by those who
wear them.
Where
to Buy Traditional Indian Saris, Sarees -
South India - Chennai is known to be
a haven for sari shoppers. If you happen to visit down south, make
sure to take out time and visit some of the well known stores there.
In
New Delhi - Nalli
Saris, Vichitra Saris, Uttam's Saris, Meena
Bazaar etc are well known stores that have a large collection
of saris in all budgets, fabrics and varieties. Karol Bagh is another
market you must check out while shopping for saris. Dilli Haat,
too has some interesting collections of traditional saris from various
states of India.
Contributing
Writer: Akanksha
is a freelance writer akanksha.sinha@gmail.com
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