Discover the Beauty of India: 26 Saree Styles You Must Know
INDIA – the most diverse nation, home to a multitude of people, each with their own cultures and lifestyles.
In this diverse land, do you know which traditional women’s attire has stood the test of time and remains beloved today?
It is none other than the SAREE.
The term SAREE is derived from the Sanskrit word “saadi” which translates to “a strip of cloth.”
For thousands of years, women have adorned themselves in different type of sarees, starting with only cotton and silk options. However, as we enter a highly fashionable era, sarees have evolved beyond just daily wear or formal attire.
It’s worth noting that some of the most famous celebrities have donned sarees on prominent international fashion stages such as the MET GALA, CANNES, and many others!
Yet, it seems that we are still not well aware of the rich variety of sarees from the various regions of INDIA.
Today, to enhance your knowledge of this treasured cultural garment, we will explore a variety of sarees of different states of India.
Traditional Indian Sarees From North Region
Banarasi Saree – Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Banarasi sarees are made in the city of Varanasi.
They have beautiful gold and silver designs and feel very royal. Many years ago, even queens and princesses wore Banarasi sarees!
Now, they are a favorite for Indian weddings and special parties. Women of all ages like to wear Banarasi sarees when they want to look extra fancy.
Chikankari Sarees – Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
The most popular Chikankari designer sarees for women are from Lucknow.
They are known for their pretty white embroidery.
This art is more than 200 years old. Women wear Chikankari sarees for Eid, weddings, and other special days.
Chikankari Sarees have graced the wardrobes of many Bollywood actresses, who pair them with stylish backless blouse designs.
Kashmiri Sarees – Jammu and Kashmir
Kashmiri sarees are from Jammu and Kashmir.
They have beautiful hand-embroidered flowers called “Kashida.”
This embroidery is very old and famous. Kashmiri sarees are perfect for cold weather and are worn during special occasions and weddings.
The colors used are gentle and subtle, like the serene landscapes found in the Kashmir region.
Phulkari Sarees – Punjab
Phulkari sarees come from Punjab and have bright, colorful flower embroidery. “Phulkari” means “flower work.”
This art is very old and is passed down from mothers to daughters. Women wear Phulkari at weddings, especially during dances.
Gota Patti Sarees – Rajasthan
Gota Patti sarees for women are from Rajasthan. They have shiny gold and silver ribbons sewn onto the fabric.
This style is very old and makes the saree sparkle! Women wear Gota Patti sarees at weddings, parties, and festive times.
Leheriya Sarees – Rajasthan
Leheriya sarees come from Rajasthan and are known for their wavy, colorful stripes.
This design is made by tying the fabric in a special way before dyeing it.
Leheriya sarees are worn during festivals like Teej and Raksha Bandhan, and are loved by women of all ages.
Traditional Indian Sarees From South Region
Kanjeevaram Saree – Tamil Nadu
Kanjeevaram sarees come from Tamil Nadu in South India. They are famous for their bright colors and shiny gold borders.
Long ago, talented weavers started making these sarees with pure silk.
Today, women often wear Kanjeevaram sarees at weddings and big festivals. Brides especially love them because they look so grand and beautiful.
Mysore Silk Sarees - Karnataka
Mysore silk sarees are made in Karnataka.
They are shiny, soft, and known for their simple yet classy look.
These sarees have been popular since royal times. These sarees are loved around the world, especially by brides seeking that perfect South Indian bridal look.
Uppada Sarees – Andhra Pradesh
Uppada sarees are made in Andhra Pradesh.
They are light, soft, and have pretty gold designs.
The weaving method is over 100 years old. Women wear Uppada sarees for festivals, weddings, and sometimes even at home because they are so comfortable.
Pochampally (Ikkat) Sarees –Telangana and Andhra Pradesh
Pochampally sarees, also called Ikkat sarees, are made in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.
They are famous for their bold, geometric patterns.
The weaving style is very old and tricky! People wear Pochampally sarees to weddings, family functions, and other important days.
Gadwal Sarees – Telangana
Gadwal sarees are from Telangana.
They are special because the body is cotton and the borders are silk.
This style started more than 200 years ago. Women wear Gadwal sarees during religious events, weddings, and traditional celebrations.
Ilkal Sarees – Karnataka
Ilkal sarees are beautiful waist-cloth garments traditionally worn by women in some parts of Karnataka, India.
They are famous for their red borders and checkered patterns. Ilkal sarees have been made for hundreds of years. Women wear them for festivals and daily life, especially in Karnataka villages.
Kalamkari Sarees – Andhra Pradesh and Telangana
Kalamkari sarees come from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
These sarees are special because artists paint or print stories and pictures on them by hand.
The art is very old and tells tales from legends and nature. Women wear Kalamkari sarees to cultural events, art festivals, and as everyday wear.
Did you know? Kanchipuram Coorgi, Ilkal, Mangalgiri, Narayanpet, Chettinad, Samudrika Pattu, and Venkatagiri sarees are also different saree types in India, celebrated for their traditional weaves, temple borders, and rich silks in south region.
Traditional Indian Sarees From East Region
Assam Silk Sarees – Assam
Assam silk sarees are made in Assam in the northeast.
They are soft and shiny, and sometimes have designs showing flowers and animals.
Assam silk sarees are worn at Bihu (the Assam New Year) and other festivals.
Moms and grandmas often have them in their saree collections.
Sambalpuri Saree – Odisha
Sambalpuri sarees come from Odisha.
They are famous for their special patterns made by tying and dyeing the threads before weaving.
These sarees have been around for hundreds of years and are worn by women for festivals, dances, and traditional celebrations.
Kantha Saree – West Bengal
Kantha sarees come from West Bengal.
They are special because of their hand-stitched patterns, often showing flowers, birds, or stories.
This embroidery is a family tradition. Women wear Kantha sarees for festivals and as everyday sarees.
Bengali Sarees – West Bengal
Bengali sarees are from West Bengal and are usually white with a red border.
These sarees are famous for being worn during Durga Puja, a big festival in Bengal.
Women of all ages wear them at festivals, weddings, and family events.
Did you know? Baluchari, Bomkai, Dhakai Jamdani, Pasapalli, taant, Muga Silk and Santali sarees are also different saree types in East India, where intricate motifs and handwoven craftsmanship stand out.
Traditional Indian Sarees From West Region
Paithani Saree – Maharashtra
Paithani sarees are from Maharashtra and are known for their bright colors and peacock designs.
These sarees have a long history—people have loved them for over 2,000 years! Paithani sarees are usually worn by women at weddings, religious ceremonies, and big celebrations.
Bandhani Saree – Gujarat and Rajasthan
Bandhani sarees are from Gujarat and Rajasthan.
They are made using a fun tie-dye method that creates lots of colorful dots. Bandhani sarees have been worn for centuries and are very popular during festivals like Navratri.
Young girls, moms, and grandmas all enjoy wearing Bandhani sarees.
Nauvari Sarees – Maharashtra
Nauvari sarees are from Maharashtra and are longer than most saree varieties.
Women wear them in a special way that looks like pants, so it’s easy to move around.
They are worn for festivals, weddings, and by women who dance or play traditional games.
Patola Sarees – Gujarat
Patola sarees are made in Gujarat and are known for their bright colors and detailed patterns.
Making a Patola saree takes a long time and a lot of skill. Brides and women wear them at big weddings and major festivals.
Due to its rarity and regal associations, you’ll often find members of royal families wearing these stunning pieces.
Mashru Sarees – Gujarat
Mashru sarees come from Gujarat and are made from a mix of silk and cotton.
These sarees were first made hundreds of years ago.
The silky outside and cotton inside make them cool and comfortable. Women wear Mashru sarees during festivals and family functions.
Did you know? Ajrakh, Kunbi, and Kota Doria sarees are also popular in West India, often recognized for their vibrant dyes, tie-dye techniques, and lightweight comfort.
Central Indian Sarees
Chanderi Saree – Madhya Pradesh
Chanderi sarees come from a place called Chanderi in Madhya Pradesh. They are light, soft, and have pretty patterns.
Chanderi sarees have been made for hundreds of years, and they are perfect for hot weather because they’re so comfortable.
Women often wear them at family gatherings, festivals, or even to work.
Did you know? Maheshwari, and Kosa Silk sarees are also popular in Central India, admired for their glossy finish, airy textures, and elegant zari work among all different types of sarees in India.
Modern and Contemporary Sarees
Chiffon Sarees – Many parts of India
Chiffon sarees are very thin and floaty, making them an ideal choice for hot summer days.
They became popular in India thanks to Bollywood movies, where actresses wore them in songs.
Women and girls like to wear chiffon sarees to look stylish at birthday parties or family gatherings.
Georgette Sarees – Many parts of India
Georgette sarees are soft, lightweight, and easy to wear.
They are made in many parts of India but are especially popular in big cities. Georgette sarees became popular in recent years and are great for dances, parties, or even school events.
Teenagers and young women love them!
Organza Saree – Many parts of India
The most latest saree design Organza sarees are made from a thin, see-through types of saree fabric and are popular in West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh.
These sarees look very elegant and are a newer style compared to ancient sarees.
Women like to wear organza sarees at parties, school events, or when they want to try something light and pretty.
Final Words
Well, there you have it – a collection of 26 amazing sarees from all across India!
As you can see, each saree has its own fascinating history, unique style, and eye-catching design.
So, whether you’re searching for a traditional or contemporary look, there’s definitely a saree out there that’s just perfect for you.
Got a favorite type of saree? We’d love to hear about it in the comments below!
Author
Step into the stylish world of fashion with Preet Kaur, a fashion blogger and industry expert. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for style, Preet illuminates the latest trends and timeless classics through her captivating blog posts. Her blogs serves as a comprehensive resource for fashion enthusiasts, offering valuable tips on everything from wardrobe essentials to high-fashion looks. Preet's insider know-how, garnered from years of experience in the fashion industry, provides readers with exclusive insights into fashion design, styling techniques, and industry secrets. Whether you're a budding designer, a seasoned professional, or simply someone who loves fashion, Preet Kaur's blog is your go-to destination for inspiration, education, and a touch of glamour.
