The saree is a timeless Indian attire that exudes luxury, elegance and grace like nothing else. This 6-yard wonder is a symbol of Indian cultural heritage. Traditional sarees from different parts of India have their own little stories. The Indian saree collection from different parts of the country comes in countless fabrics, patterns, and colours, each reflecting the rich diversity of India. From the delicate Kanjeevaram silk of Tamil Nadu to the vibrant Bandhani prints from Rajasthan, ethnic wear sarees offer a captivating blend of tradition and modernity. In this blog, let us look at how to style Indian ethnic sarees for any ocassion.
History
The word “sari” means “strip of cloth” in Sanskrit. Saree has existed for almost more than 5,000 years now and still holds the same popularity as it did back then. This strip of cloth has been worn since the Indus Valley civilisation and the time of the Aryans. During the time of the Persians and Greeks, stitching and wearing sewn clothing started in India. Therefore, by the time of the Mughals, people adapted to the modern style of draping and styling which enhanced the look of the garment.
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Even today, it is the most worn garment in India irrespective of age, gender, socioeconomic status, or religion. Now we have various traditional designers and stylish sarees, available in all kinds of colors and materials coming from all the different states of India. The fondness for saree never fades, which is why every woman's closet is packed with magnificent sarees. A saree doesn't only show the culture of the Indian women but also provides a sophisticated chic look.
Styling
We have all watched those scenic shots of a Bollywood actress dancing in a beautiful saree with SRK and wished to look that pretty in a saree!!! We have all been there. Here are some cool styling tips for your next “ Main Hoon Na ki Miss. Chandni'' moment -
Chanderi
Chanderi sarees are popular in Madhya Pradesh and are famous for their lightweight. The designs on these sarees are usually inspired by the Chanderi sanctuaries. The Chanderi Saree, made of silk and cotton, is one of the most popular sarees among Indian ladies. Chanderi fabric is made by weaving silk and golden zari into cotton yarn, bringing in a shimmering effect. While styling your Chanderi saree, you must let the saree shine as brightly as possible. Go for a bun hairdo or a high pony to let it shine. You can show off your creativity by adding flowers and hair accessories to your hairstyle to give yourself a more youthful appearance with the ethnic saree.
Jamdani
Jamdani sarees are distinguished by their elaborate patterns and high-quality fabrics. They appear graceful due to their outstanding beauty. Authentic Jamdani saree requires hundreds of hours to weave, making the theme unique to the upper crust. However, the introduction of improved and efficient mills made the procedure simple and affordable. Bengali women adore these sarees, and their wardrobes would be incomplete without them. What more could you want when you have a sheer Jamdani saree that makes you stand out at work, special meetings, daytime events, kitty parties, and soirees? Wrap a stylish belt around the waist of the saree to create a lovely look. Depending on the color of your saree, you can wear a contrasting color belt or stick to basic colors like black, white, or maroon. Shop your Jamdani saree look from India’s best handicraft store now!
Kalamkari
Kalamkari is the oldest technique of hand painting on cotton or silk fabric with a bamboo kalam/pen, which has a pierced bamboo to control the flow of dye on the fabric. This Andhra Pradesh art form is a treasured fabric among Indian women. As kalamkari print sarees frequently depict buddha and lotus, they are also known as buddha print sarees. Kalamkari sarees are lightweight, trendy, and gorgeous regardless of the material or style. These saris are a good pick for a modern, Indie-chic look when paired with oxidized jewelry, an eye-catching fancy blouse, and a stunning flower brooch in the front pallu. While Kalamkari cotton sarees are ideal for everyday use, Kalamkari silk sarees are now among those popular ethnic sarees that make a show-stopping statement piece for any festival. Read more about the amazing Kalamkari art on iTokri!
Bhagalpuri
Bhagalpuri sarees are named after a small village in Bihar called Bhagalpur. Bhagalpur, popularly known as the Silk City, is well-renowned for producing high-quality silk sarees that are popular among women of all ages. Its mesmerizing charm and unique dyeing methods have made these designer sarees extremely popular all over the world. There is a wide range of Bhagalpuri sarees to choose from. Giccha, Eri, Katia, and mulberry are among the varieties available that enhance the look and beauty of women of all ages.
Styling a Bhagalpuri saree is easy because of its traditional and antique touch. So, these ethnic sarees look best when paired with gold, silver, Kundan, and pearl jewellery. By pairing the saree with a jacket, you can dramatically upgrade your ethnic look. Wearing these ethnic wear sarees with a long, short, or full-sleeve embroidered jacket would not only make you look classy but also give a bit of Western flair to your Indian attire.
iTokri offers you an exclusive collection of Bhagalpuri Tussar silk sarees that will take your breath away.
Ajrakh
Ajrakh block print sarees are an amazing choice for an everyday look. Ajrakh is a hand-block print method used on textiles. It is completed with a wooden block. The carved wooden block has various symmetrical patterns. The handblock produces a variety of repetitive web-like designs. After the printing is completed, the cloth is colored in the solution to add the finishing touch.
Ajrakh is a sustainable fashion choice that is resist-dyed with natural dyes. Indigo blue and deep red are the two most common colors seen in Ajrakh designs. Club your favourite Ajrakh ethnic wear sarees with a black or any dark colour blouse. With these traditional sarees, this combination creates an awe-inspiring appearance. Ajrakh is reaching new heights of creativity with the assistance of Indian fashion designers and bringing in new trending sarees for youngsters.
Bengali Kantha
Kantha is an embroidery technique that originated in Bolpur, West Bengal's Birbhum district. This embroidery, which was traditionally used to embellish quilts, is now popular on sarees, dupattas, kurtas, and even interior decor items such as bed covers and pillows. Originally, kanthas were made by village women using old cotton saris, lungis, and dhotis that had become very soft due to overuse. Five to seven of these fabrics would be placed together, using lighter colored fabrics on the outer layer to accentuate the stitching and design. Isn't this the most environmentally friendly method to recycle?Today they have become one of the popular traditional sarees to add to your Indian saree collection.
Kantha designs represent folk tales, mythical backgrounds, ritualistic elements, luxuriant nature with wandering animals, temples, etc. To make an exquisite impression, pair Kantha sarees with a contrasting color cotton kurta and a striking long neckpiece. To complete this amazing ethnic look, add a pair of heels.
These amazing ideas for modernizing your ethnic sarees can be implemented on all ages as they will help you pull off your best look and stand out at your office, cocktail parties, weddings, or any special occasion.
What is the famous traditional saree?
India’s cultural heritage speaks volumes of craft, skills and artisan’s labour of love. Every region of India specialises in a different saree making the Indian saree collection a bouquet of luxurious crafts and heritage. Let us look at some famous traditional sarees of India from different regions.
Banarasi Saree - This ethnic wear saree from Banaras, Uttar Pradesh is known for its intricate gold and silver zari work on rich silk fabric. With opulent designs and regal motifs, Banarasi sarees are often worn during weddings and special occasions.
Kanjeevaram Saree - The south of India is a region for vibrant and luxurious sarees. Nothing speaks about luxury like the kanjeevaram silk sarees with their vibrant colours and intricate gold and silver zari temple borders.
Paithani Saree - Originating from Maharashtra, Paithani sarees are known for their opulent peacock motifs and ornate border designs.
Bandhani Sarees - These ethnic wear sarees with tie and dye design are known for their intricate patterns and bold, vibrant hues.
Patola Sarees - A masterpiece of double ikat weaving, Patola sarees are a must-have in your Indian saree collection. They are characterized by their complex geometric patterns and rich colours.
Assam Silk Saree - Made from mulberry silk these ethnic wear sarees from Assam have a smooth texture. With ornate pallus and vibrant colours, they are often the choice for D-day for Indian brides from Eastern India.
These amazing ideas for modernizing your ethnic sarees can be implemented on all ages as they will help you pull off your best look and stand out at your office, cocktail parties, weddings, or any special occasion. iTokri brings you an authentic Indian saree collection from different parts of India. We bring you sarees directly from the artisans to your doorstep. Explore the beautiful collection of sarees online now!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What ethnicity is Sari?
Saree is a traditional garment worn by women in various cultures across the Indian subcontinent, including India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. Different ethnic groups in Indias have their own unique styles and traditions of wearing the saree, reflecting their diverse cultural heritage.
2. Is saree a ethnic wear?
Saree is considered an ethnic wear as it is a traditional garment deeply rooted in the cultures of the Indian subcontinent. The saree's rich history, diverse styles, and cultural significance make it a quintessential ethnic attire.
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