Introduction of Saree

Saree - Introduction and its culture.

Saree - The Epitome of Style!

The saree 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 saree?

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 UN stitched 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 Saree?

A saree 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 saree an interesting attire!

The most common way to wear a saree 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 saree, 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 -

Maharashtra, Karnataka etc - Maharashtrian Saree 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.

Andhra Pradesh - Nivi Style sari is worn here.

Tamil Nadu - Here there is a Dravidian style of wearing draping saree.

Gujara - Predominantly in North India, women wear saree 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 Saree

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 Saree -

Jamdani, Tanchoi

Popular Saree / Special Work on Sarees from Bihar, India -

Madhubani, Applique - hand made by traditional artists

Saris from Assam, India -

Ikkat

Orissa Saris-

Cuttaki

Typical Work on Saree 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

Immensely popular saris from Lucknow -

Chickan Work Saris

Saris from Madhya Pradesh -

Chanderi

Saree from Maharashtra -

Paithani

When it comes to wearing saree, 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.