Silk has perpetually been a cornerstone of Indian saree craftsmanship, whether it’s for a wedding celebration or a festive occasion. Throughout the annals of Indian saree history, silk has remained the quintessential fiber, intricately woven into the fabric of traditions spanning the country’s diverse regions – from the lush south to the vibrant north, from the serene east to the majestic west.
In this segment, we delve into a rich tapestry of silk sarees originating from myriad production hubs across India, including Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Chattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Orissa, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and beyond.
Among the myriad, notable mentions encompass a splendid array of Indian Traditional Silk Sarees, such as Assam Silk, Katan Silk, Kora Silk, Gadhwal Silk, Ikkat Silk, Bomkai Silk, and an array of others, each weaving its own tale of heritage and craftsmanship.
The timeless elegance of the six-yard drape gracefully complements every Indian woman, subtly enhancing her femininity like no other traditional attire can. With its rich weaving traditions, Paithani sarees exude an unmatched allure that transcends borders, making them a popular choice worldwide for any occasion, be it a festive celebration or a formal event.
India boasts a diverse array of sarees, each reflecting the unique culture of its state. At WishCarry Exclusives, saree enthusiasts can explore a wide range of traditional designs tailored for various occasions.
Origin of Paithani sarees: Named after the village of Paithan near Aurangabad in Maharashtra, Paithani sarees are renowned for their resplendent handloom silk.
Weaving of Paithani silk – the raised pitloom: Crafted meticulously on raised pitlooms, Paithani sarees undergo a time-intensive weaving process, transitioning from a cotton base to pure silk to achieve their exquisite finish.
Paithani designs & exclusivity: Characterized by intricate motifs and contrasting shades, Paithani sarees feature golden-based pallavs adorned with silk patterns, creating a captivating play of light and shadow. Historically, Paithani sarees during the Peshwa rule incorporated pure gold mixed with copper for added strength.
Motifs of Paithani sarees: From lotus and parrots to coins and flowers, Paithani sarees boast a rich tapestry of motifs inspired by nature and classic sculptures. Varieties like Asavali and Tota-Maina showcase distinct designs, adding to the allure of these elegant sarees.
Originating from Andhra Pradesh, the Gadwal saree boasts its distinctiveness with cotton weft interwoven with golden brocade motifs, complemented by vibrant designs. Typically, its borders and body showcase striking contrasts in color.
Unveiling Lesser-Known Insights into the Gadwal Saree
- Local artisans craft traditional Gadwal sarees to fold neatly into small matchbox-sized bundles.
- While cotton forms the body, the border adorns silk in these sarees.
- Known as Kootu, traditional Gadwal sarees feature a white cotton body with a colorful pallav and border, exuding ethnic charm through manual weaving techniques.
- Another intriguing variant, the Kudapam, highlights contrasting borders and intricately woven pallav using three shuttle techniques, often employing dyed mulberry silk for the body adorned with various motifs.
For those seeking a perfect Gadwal saree, meticulous attention to both border and body sections is paramount, where brocaded designs depicting mangoes, peacocks, and traditional motifs enrich the overall allure.
In contemporary trends, Gadwal sarees with Bangalore silk bodies have gained popularity, especially for religious and ceremonial occasions. Undoubtedly, the Gadwal saree epitomizes India’s cultural richness and age-old weaving techniques.
Like Tom Ford once said, ‘Dressing well is a sign of good manners.’ And when you are on the professional front, trust us, you really want to show the best of your manners. It also uplifts your spirits and helps in maintaining productivity.
When you are dressed well, it automatically imbues your entire self with positive vibes. You are more presentable and hence can easily connect with your co-workers.
This is a question for the ladies – what do you prefer to wear to your workplace? Formal shirts and trousers? Palazzos? Kurtis with leggings? Salwar suits? We can show you one more option, a very ethnic one.
How about wearing a cotton saree to work?
Rooting for the cultural exquisiteness of the country, this attire seems to be the perfect, traditional, stylish, and elegant. The fabric is comfortable as well as skin-friendly – ideal for daily wear.
If you are a working lady and you don’t have cotton sarees in your wardrobe yet, we can show you 3 reasons why you should own one.
#For The Love Of Comfort
We cannot think of a fabric as comfortable as cotton. The material is easy to drape and one of the many reasons why it has remained popular throughout all these years. Cotton is cool on the skin during hot and humid summer days. It is easily washable, doesn’t require much maintenance, and offers a sense of earthy, authentic Indian look.
Think about the viscose trousers you wear and the skin rashes they cause. This is never a problem with cotton sarees. The fabric is lightweight and airy. And as if this is not enough, think of the way of draping a saree. You would always remain air-conditioned throughout the day. Winks!
#Ah, those beautiful designs
Saree is one attire that would remain contemporary, no matter what. The manufacturers make sure that the latest fashion trends are followed. You will notice this in the changing concepts, motifs, borders, prints, embroideries, and pallu styles.
In other words, you need not look boring at your workplace. You can always have a variety to flaunt. You can opt for pure cotton sarees or even those that come blended with silk. And think about the color burst you can invite into your closet. Isn’t it a richer variety than your everyday shirts, pants, Kurtis, and the like?
#The Ultimate ‘Indianized’ Corporate Look
The attire isn’t loud and yet steals the show. It is never emphatic in expression and yet earns you compliments. A cotton saree can be draped in a uniform way and still won’t lose its creases even when the office hours are over.
Did you know this dress can make you look more commanding? Well, isn’t this much needed within the corporate corridors? The best part is that you can have all these benefits at a price that wouldn’t hurt your wallet. So, are you all inspired to wear a cotton saree to your workplace? Please do.
Online shopping offers the convenience of browsing and purchasing products from the comfort of your own home or any location with internet access. This saves time and eliminates the need to physically visit a store.
Websites often have a wide range of products available, allowing customers to find exactly what they are looking for. They can compare different options, read reviews and make informed decisions before making a purchase.
Online retailers often offer competitive prices due to lower overhead costs compared to physical stores. Customers can take advantage of discounts, promotions and price comparisons to find the best deals.
Websites often provide customer reviews and ratings for products, which can help potential buyers make more informed choices. Reading about the experiences of others can build trust and confidence in the products offered.
E-commerce websites generally prioritize the security of online transactions, ensuring that customers’ personal and payment information is protected. Secure payment gateways and encryption technology provide a secure shopping experience.
Websites typically offer a variety of delivery options, including home delivery, express shipping or in-store pickup, allowing customers to choose the most convenient method. Fast and reliable shipping services can further improve the overall customer experience.
Many websites offer customer support services, such as live chat, email support, or helpline numbers, to help customers with any questions or concerns they may have about the product or purchase process.
Silk is traditional and well-connected to our culture. This traditional material also provides some scientific benefits to the wearer.
While participating in various religious functions, you must have seen people dressed in silk sarees or dhotis. Have you ever wondered why most people prefer to wear silk clothes during religious ceremonies? This is simply because silk is the only one among all clothing materials that has the ability to absorb positive energy and resist harmful rays. Silk lends a hint of smoothness that gracefully expresses the wearer in the most understated way. The antibacterial presence of silk works wonders for every wearer. Silk has this remarkable property of absorbing as much moisture as possible which makes the wearer feel warm even in cold temperatures.
Be it ethnic wear or contemporary styling, silk is always in fashion. Nowadays people like to adorn their sarees with other sarees to give a great designer look to the clothes.
This material is known to represent a great renewal of interest in clothing technology of almost every Indian. It is not only worn during traditional occasions but is also an integral part of the general wardrobe of contemporary fashion loving women. It is because of the sheer luster of a saree made of silk that most fashion conscious people have it in their wardrobe. The universally flattering aspect of silk sarees enhances the beauty of the wearer.
The revival of traditionally rich techniques has given rise to a wide range of regional variations that can adorn not only religious ceremonies but also the workplace. Silk can be worn as traditional, formal, semi-formal and party wear. There are different types available and each of them is suitable for different purposes. Each type of silk has its own advantages.
Different silk saree trends
- Cotton Silk & Dupion sarees provide complete comfort to the ladies who wear them at work. It is light and has a soft texture.
- Kanchipuram silk sarees are elegantly decorated with beautifully woven gold threads. They are mainly worn for traditional functions.
- Balochari silk sarees are considered semi-formal.
To buy the best quality silk, you can either visit ethnic stores or buy it online.
Women in India are spoiled for choice when it comes to traditional Indian wear. From sarees to anarkalis and kurtis to cholis, they have endless options to choose from. But one outfit that tops every woman’s list is the evergreen salwar kameez. This versatile dress is perfect for all weather, occasions, and ages. Today, if you mention salwar kameez to an Indian woman, she will take it on her own. With the evolving fashion, salwar kameez designs have also undergone several changes. They can be paired with a dupatta, shawl, or chunni.
The salwar kameez has a long history. It comes from all over South Asia and has additions and blends from many other countries like Afghanistan, Pakistan, and even Bangladesh. In India, the states of Punjab and Gujarat have their own influence in giving salwar kameez a different look. Traditional salwar kameez is usually worn with a long scarf or dupatta which is usually colorful.
Kurtis is those that are usually worn by men with pajama, salwar, or even lungi and they are usually short. However, with time women started following this trend and now there are different types of designer kurtas along with traditional ones which women follow and carry well with trousers or leggings.
If you are an ardent lover of six yards, you will have almost every type of saree in your wardrobe. Yet, the glow and comfort that handloom sarees offer is unmatched. Dressed elegantly, a woman can carry these hand-stitched creations in their regular work, as well as look good at parties. Such is the magic of this masterful creation.
Marketing drapes in the textile sector are becoming increasingly popular in the country. And why not? It is the largest generator of non-agricultural rural employment and has a strong place in the growth of the country’s economy. And, the best part of such creation is the immense contribution of the stagnant, poor class of the country. Their skills get exposure to the public eye, and in return, they get paid.
This in a way appreciates their craftsmanship and takes a step forward in reducing poverty in the country. Being primarily household dependent, it involves the entire family and is therefore second only to agriculture in shaping the economic status of the country.
If you take just a minute to think why you should buy a handloom saree, we can give you some reasons:
- Handloom sarees is completely made from 100% natural fibers, and this can be considered the main reason to choose handloom over other materials. Everything from the making of drapes to their production involves natural fibers. So, the Jamdani or Chanderi that you see displayed in showrooms are actually made from pure silk or cotton or khadi. So, who would object to wearing eco-friendly clothes?
- The Indian weaving industry never fails to enhance the artistry of the weavers and also showcases the rich and diverse Indian culture. Every state in the country has a different art form to be proud of and so do their weavers. A weaver in Bihar will make a fine Madhubani art in six yards, while the weavers down south in Kanchipuram will do fine work. With unique painting, needlework, and weaving designs, each handcrafted piece is different from the others, and every single piece is worth having.
- As we have discussed earlier, looms provide financial assistance to the poor. When you buy a saree online, a large part of the financial help reaches them. More than 4.3 million workers are working in this sector. So when you buy handcrafted pieces, you are in a way enhancing their livelihood. Doesn’t it give you a deeply beautiful feeling?
- As the workers take the initiative to make each saree in a unique way, every six yards become something different from the rest. From the fabric to the color, it is unique, distinctive, and highly flattering. And, it can motivate you to buy almost all the varieties you can find in online stores.
- Using some chemicals on your body can be harmful; You might not have thought about it, but chemicals or dyes in the sari you wear can harm your skin. It may be a slow process, but who knows where it will end? Why take a risk? Instead choose from a wide range of handloom drapes, which will be vibrant and perfect for your skin tone.
Indian women are widely known for wearing sarees this garment has been an essential part of Indian tradition from ancient times to the modern day. Indian women love to wear classic sarees on every auspicious occasion and with the rise of the fashion domain, many changes have been made in saree-making techniques. However, due to their quality and elegant designs, Indian handloom silk sarees have become the most preferred attire for Indian women. In this article, you will get a glimpse of some top Indian handloom sarees.
Banarasi Handloom Silk Saree:
Benares is a part of the country that produces one of the most elegant sarees in all of India. As Banarasi has always been the first choice of Indian women, especially in marriage. Banarasi silk sarees are widely popular for their intricate lace and silk work. A remarkable feature of Banarasi handloom silk sarees is the bright and colorful colors of the best quality silk fabric.
Chanderi Silk Sarees of Madhya Pradesh:
The heart of India is very popular for Chanderi weave sarees. Unique shades with elegant designs make it stand out. The saree gives a soft and airy feel to the wearer and is mostly known for its soft texture but its Pallas. Fashion designers, these days are showing interest in Chanderi sarees and have taken this classy weave to the ramp.
Bandhani Sarees of Gujarat:
This saree of Western India is associated with the traditional art of tying and dyeing. There are three types of Bandhani sarees available in India, namely Gadchola, Lehariya, and Paneter. The most important thing about these sarees is that they give a colorful look and depict the specialty of delicate Gujarati design, which is unique among many Indian handloom silk sarees.
Baluchari Handloom Sarees from West Bengal:
This saree is made with a loom weaving technique and specially crafted mythological motifs with six-yard draping to provide a mesmerizing look. The saree is designed with the best work in Gresham or Zari. Balucharis woven with gold lace is called swarnacharis. Pallas often depicts local stories or events from epics.
The Munga Handloom Silk Sarees from Assam:
These sarees from the northeastern part of India reflect cultural aspects and have their own identity across the country. The most notable feature of the saree is that it provides a three-dimensional effect and connected woven borders.
Patola Handloom Sarees from Gujarat:
Patola sarees are traditional Gujarati handloom products and are widely popular for their imitative designs and ethereal patterns. These sarees are woven by highly experienced weavers and a special type of silk called Patotal is used to make sarees.
Uppada silk sarees from Andhra Pradesh:
These are the best and lightest silk sarees from Uppada, Andhra Pradesh, and East Godavari district of India. The weaving pattern is Jamdani type and pure lace is used. Uppada silk designs are classy and colors are vibrant.
Kanchpuram sarees:
Kanchipuram sarees are the most popular sarees in the south and the sarees are quite famous for their lace work and elaborate designs. Sarees made of golden and silver threads are considered suitable for bridal wear. Mysore silk sarees, Kasavu sarees, and Uppada sarees are also popular in South India as well as across the country.
Garad looks divine. Dressing up in a traditional garad saree during any religious event is a sheer treat for every Bengali woman. Garad silk, unlike other traditional sarees, has this mysterious essence of purity that makes every wearer go absolutely crazy. Besides flaunting her traditional extravaganza, a garad silk saree is something that can make anyone feel a lot more sophisticated. Indian Silk House Exclusives has a rich collection of traditional garad sarees and here you can run your fingers through an array of wonderfully woven garad silk sarees at the best prices. One can easily buy garda sarees on online portals as well.
The garad saree symbolizes the traditional culture of Bengali women and is made of strong silk fabric. The fabric is not dyed and this is mainly done to maintain the purity of the fine fabric.
The dark red border marked on a white or off-white saree plays an important role in bringing the wearer a pure traditional look during the important rituals of the festival. Sarees have a sacred relevance and that’s why cowl sarees are readily available in most Bengali women’s closets.
All Bengali sarees look graceful, classy, and exquisite in their appearance and Garad is certainly no exception. What sets Garad apart from others is its ever-so-beautiful and iconic red border with beautiful paisley motifs. This remarkable feature represents purity and highlights the culture and heritage of Bengal in the most enticing way.
When it comes to choosing the perfect Durga Puja saree, every Bengali woman looks forward to picking out her garad saree that helps her steal the show.
Garad saree variations mainly include small floral or paisley or figure patterns with a wide red border on the white or off-white part of the saree. It is often seen that garda sarees have different colored borders.
While the red border predominates, maroon and other colors like green, blue, mustard and gray are also available for those looking for color options. Nowadays we at Indian Silk House Exclusives make some special garad sarees like brocade and some exquisite rare pieces with pure lace work. Garad sarees usually come without a blouse piece but we make a few with a blouse piece.