Discovering the World of Sarees

Saree, the most elegant traditional Indian attire, defines the beauty of a woman, bringing out her grace and elegance, reflecting the true essence of an Indian woman. Available in plain, printed, heavily embroidered, dyed, saree has got a grace that's beyond comparison. Right from the period of Indus Valley Civilization we get sufficient evidences indicating the tradition of wearing Sarees as an age old custom prevalent in the Indian subcontinent. There are different kinds of Sarees available in various fabrics for every occasion.

The wearing style varies from region to region. Generally the length of Sarees do not exceed more than 5 meters but in some cases sarees of even longer lengths have been seen meant for a lady of good he ight. Some important part of a saree includes Border, Laces, Pallu, Achkan, etc. which are taken special care by an artisan while applying the finishing touch.

There are several well known types of sarees found in the Indian subcontinent regions. But now sarees have become an outfit of international recognition. Some important types of sarees are Chikan, Banarasi, Tant, Jamdani, Tanchoi, Shalu, Baluchari, Kantha, Ikat Silk & Cotton, Katan Sari, Chanderi, Bandhani, Paithani, etc.

The saree is worn in at least 10 to 15 styles throughout India, though the ways of wearing remains almost the same in every case. The outlook of a woman depends on the way a saree is worn by her. Perhaps the saree wearing style has become a solid demarcating line for women of different regions. Some most striking saree wearing patterns are Nivi Style, Bengali Style, Oriya Style, Gujarati Style, Madisaara Style, Kodagu Style, Tribal Style, Rural Style, Urban Style, etc.

In fact, the saree wearing techniques vary from region to region and every state of Indian subcontinent has its own peculiar tradition and custom which is positively reflected from the dress people wear and the style they advocate.

Once you know how to drape it, it's very easy to wear. There are thousands of colors, designs, patterns, patch works, embroidery works, hand stitched crafts, etc. associated with sarees which are rarely found in any other wearable items. Though saree is primarily used as a traditional wearing item for a female of the Indian subcontinent yet it has advantages more than known to us.

Gone are the days when saree was confined to the regions of the Indian subcontinent only. Now this popular dress form is worn by women from all over the world. In the contemporary times the look of a women in a saree is more appreciated. Sarees may be very expensive when they are decorated with diamond, gold, pearls, and other precious stones.

The traditional handloom sarees usually in silk and cotton fabrics, are reasonably priced and are much popular amongst every segment of the Indian society. Woman in Saree and India are synonymous to each other. Fashion shows and air hostesses deserve additional credit for popularizing sarees at the international level.