Sarees: A Timeless Tradition
The saree is a beautiful and versatile garment that has been worn by women in India for centuries. It is a long, unstitched piece of fabric that is draped around the body in a variety of ways. There are many different types of sarees, each with its own unique history, design, and significance.
Types of Sarees:
There are literally hundreds of different types of sarees, each with its own unique origin and style. Some of the most popular types of sarees include:
Banarasi sarees: Made in Varanasi, these sarees are known for their intricate gold and silver brocade work. Shop Banarasi sarees here.
Kanjeevaram saree: Made in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, these sarees are known for their rich colours and zari borders. It is also known as Kanchipuram Sarees. Shop Kanjeevaram sarees here.
Paithani saree: Made in Paithan, Maharashtra, these sarees are known for their beautiful silk and intricate designs. Shop Paithani sarees here.
Bandhani saree: Made in Gujarat, these sarees are known for their tie-dye patterns. Shop Bandhani sarees here.
Sambalpuri saree: Made in Sambalpur, Odisha, these sarees are known for their ikat designs. Shop Sambalpuri sarees here.
Chanderi saree: Made in Chanderi, Madhya Pradesh, these sarees are known for their lightweight and sheer fabric. Shop Chanderi sarees here.
Mysore silk saree: Made in Mysore, Karnataka, these sarees are known for their soft and lustrous silk. Shop Mysore sarees here.
How to Tie a Saree:
There are many different ways to tie a saree, depending on the region and occasion. Here is a basic guide on how to tie a saree:
- Wrap the saree around your waist, starting at the back and bringing it to the front.
- Tuck one end of the saree into the petticoat at the waist.
- Take the other end of the saree and pleat it neatly.
- Drape the pleated pallu (end of the saree) over your shoulder.
- Secure the pallu with a safety pin or blouse.
How to Wear Different Types of Sarees:
The way you wear a saree can vary depending on the type of saree and the occasion. For example, a formal saree would be worn differently than a casual saree. Here's a glimpse into some popular saree drapes from across India:
Nivi Drape (South India): This is the most common drape, seen widely in South India. The saree is wrapped around the waist, with neat pleats at the front and the pallu (end of the saree) flowing gracefully over the left shoulder.
Bengali Saree Drape: Known for its elegance, the Bengali drape features deeper pleats at the front, creating a voluminous effect. The pallu is usually draped over the left shoulder with a curved flow at the back, adding a touch of sophistication.
Maharashtrian Saree Drape (Nauvari): This unique drape from Maharashtra resembles a dhoti-style drape. One end of the saree is tucked at the back, while the rest is elegantly wrapped around the legs and then pleated at the front. The pallu is then brought over the shoulder, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Maharashtra.
Gujarati Saree Drape: The Gujarati drape is characterised by the pallu being draped over the head like a veil, symbolising modesty and respect. The pleats at the front are minimal, creating a sleek and contemporary look.
Gandhinian Saree Drape: Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi, this drape is known for its simplicity and practicality. The saree is tucked at the back, with minimal pleating in the front. The pallu is usually short and draped over the right shoulder, perfect for an active lifestyle.
Lehenga Saree Drape: This modern twist on the traditional saree combines the elegance of a saree with the volume of a lehenga. The saree is draped like a skirt, creating a dramatic silhouette perfect for festive occasions. Shop lehenga saree here.
This is just a taste of the diverse world of saree drapes.
How Many Types of Sarees Are There?
It is difficult to say exactly how many types of sarees there are, as there are so many variations and regional styles. However, there are estimated to be hundreds of different types of sarees.
Are All Sarees 9 Yards in Length?
No, not all sarees are 9 yards in length. The length of a saree can vary depending on the type of saree and the region. Some sarees are as short as 5 yards, while others can be as long as 12 yards.
Online Sarees of Good Quality:
There are many online retailers that sell sarees of good quality. Here are a few tips for finding good quality sarees online:
Look for a retailer that has a good reputation and sells sarees from reputable brands.
Read reviews of the retailer and the sarees before you buy.
Make sure the retailer has a good return policy in case you are not satisfied with the saree.
Sarees are a beautiful and versatile garment that can be worn for any occasion. With so many different types of sarees to choose from, there is sure to be a saree that is perfect for you.