Sari - The Epitome of Style

The sari is a traditional Indian garment worn by most women in India. Though there is a lot of western influence 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.

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, Silk, Chiffon, Georgette, Organdie, Nylon, Terrycot, Acrylic, Organza, Tissue, Crepe, Chinnon, Synthetic, Satin

If you like light, airy saris, chiffon is the thing for you. On occasions like weddings etc, 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 -

• Gujarat - Predominantly in North India, women wear saris in typical Gujrati style.  

• 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.

Well Known Varieties of Saris

Specialty Sarees from South India -

• Pochampalli, Kanjivaram, Venkatgiri, Narayan Pet, Mysore Silk, Gadwal

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

Popular Saris / Special Work on Saris from Bihar, India -

• Madhubani, Applique - hand made by traditional artists

Saris from Assam, India -

• Ikkat

Orissa Saris-

• Cuttaki

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

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 - CTC Plaza, Nalli Saris, Ushnak Mal and Perfection Saris 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 intetresting collections of traditional saris from various states of India.

Contributing Writer:  Akanksha is a freelance writer akanksha.sinha@gmail.com