The Wonder of Weaving – What are saris made of?

Indian saree is like a canvas of art, color, design, motifs, tradition, culture, elegance and class. The combination of these intangibles makes Indian sarees the most gracious, glamourous and gratifying outfit. The art of weaving dates back thousands of years, with records found in scriptures, carvings, and royal accounts. Each thread is carefully woven by artisans in a variety of ways into various enchanting saree fabrics.Off White Handllom Silk Patola Print Saree Festive Wear-SASRK203127

Diverse Weaving Styles of India – The Indian Saree Fabric Art

Diversity of saree material types comes from the source threads and weaving combinations. Depending on the style used, it may take anywhere from days to months in the completion of various types of saree materials. Identifying different types of saree materials can be tricky, but you can distinguish them based on texture, sheen, weight, weaving patterns, and design intricacies.Blue Sequins Cut Dana Net Trendy Saree After Six Wear-SASCCRM002

Here is a glimpse of diverse weaving styles of saree fabric across India and tips on how to recognize these saree material types:

Banarasi Silk Sarees:

Traditionally woven in Uttar Pradesh are known for its brocade work and featuring Mughal-inspired motifs like florals and paisleys. Banarasi sarees are synonymous with royalty and opulence.Pink Satin Banarasi Handloom Zari Work Saree Festive Wear-SASGF408004

Tips to identify: It is a rich fabric with gold or silver work, and feels slightly stiff yet luxurious to drape.

Kanjeevaram Silk Sarees:

Rooted in Tamil Nadu, these are made with pure silk and real zari, these sarees are known for their rich texture, colors, and temple-inspired motifs.Kancheepuram Silk Zari Woven Beige Saree With Blouse Festive Wear-SASMAC2024044

Tips to identify: This is thick, and lustrous with contrasting borders, often having temple, and floral designs. Feels smooth yet heavy, with a crisp drape.

Paithani Sarees:

Originated in Maharashtra, these are handwoven with silk and zari. Characterized by its unique peacock and floral designs.Classic White Color Zari Woven Paithani Silk Saree Festive Wear-SASVW401

Tips to identify: This has a slightly stiff texture with shimmer, with peacock and floral designs woven with pure gold and silver.

Chanderi Sarees:

Madhya Pradesh has been its root. These are light, sheer, and elegant, that use a blend of cotton and silk.Chanderi Block Print Cotton Purple Saree Festive Wear-SAJSC0004

Tips to identify: Lightweight, fabric with a crisp texture, drapes softly and feels airy. It flaunts nature inspired featuring delicate gold motifs.

Tant Sarees:

Being from West Bengal these are a favorite when it comes to daily wear saree fabric. Tant sarees feature paisleys, floral vines, and geometric patterns.

Tips to identify: Thin, crisp, stiff feel, and are remarkably lightweight, highly breathable and turns soft with use.

Patola Sarees:

These are from Gujarat, made on a double-ikat weave. It takes immense skill to align geometric patterns on both sides on these types of saree materials.Yellow Patola Silk Benarasi And Patola Saree Festive Wear-SASFFDOMU09

Tips to identify: Has identical geometric patterns and sharp symmetrical designs on either side. Stiff, smooth texture with rich, vibrant colors.

Muga Silk Sarees:

This saree material type is a gift of Assam. These saree fabrics have a natural golden sheen that enhances their luxurious appeal.

Tips to identify: They have a metallic hue, but are coarse to the touch, and soften with use. Lustrous and durable, reflecting Assamese heritage.

Pochampally Ikat Sarees:

They are from Telangana, famous for geometric tie-dyeing patterns. These sarees’ material types are made using resist-dyeing technique before weaving.Maroon Patola Handloom Silk Zari Woven Classy Saree With Blouse Festive Wear-SASACY7717

Tips to identify: Medium-weight fabric with distinctive tie-and-dye geometric patterns. Smooth but slightly textured to the touch.

What are the Top 7 Saree Material Types?

Sarees come in a variety of material types. Some are super rich in its finesse while others are soft, breathable. The type of saree fabric adds to the overall feel and comfort. Here are the top 7 saree material types:

  1. Soft and Breathable – Cotton, Linen, Chanderi; lightweight and airy, comfortable in hot temperatures.
  2. Stiff and Crisp – Organza, Tissue silk, Tussar silk, are ideal for structured drapes.
  3. Sheer and Lightweight – Chiffon, Georgette, Net flow well and drape effortlessly.Black Georgette Sequins Embroidery Work Saree Party Wear-SASACU5717
  4. Smooth and Lustrous – Silk, Satin, Muga Silk rich and shiny designed for occasions.
  5. Textured and Matte – Crepe, Khadi, Raw Silk with subtle textures, elegant and contemporary looks.
  6. Heavy and Ornate – Banarasi Silk, Kanjeevaram, Paithani, Patola for rich weaves and appearance.
  7. Stretchable and Drap Friendly – Lycra, Viscose used in modern saree materials for contemporary designs.

How to Choose Perfect Saree Fabric According to Occasion?

Daily Wear & Office Wear – Opt for cotton, or linen, for a comfortable, and professional look.

Festive & Wedding Wear – Rich fabrics like Banarasi silk, Kanjeevaram, Paithani, or Patola will add grandeur and elegance.

Party Wear & Evening Events – Lightweight fabrics like chiffon, georgette, crepe, or satin add comfort along with glamour.

Summer & Casual Outings – Soft and airy fabrics like mulmul cotton, or linen keep you cool and stylish.Black Chiffon With Beads Work And Sequins Saree Wedding Wear-SASRFJ6045BL

Winter Wear & Grand Occasions – Heavier fabrics like velvet, tussar silk, or jacquard provide warmth and a lavish appeal.

Trendy & Contemporary Looks – Net, organza, or lycra sarees give a modern, stylish touch with a structured drape.

What are The Top 3 Ways to Care for Your Saree Fabrics?

  1. Proper Washing & Cleaning – Every saree fabric needs to be cared upon differently. Follow fabric-specific care; delicate sarees like silk and chiffon require dry cleaning, while cotton and linen can be hand-washed.
  2. Correct Storage – Store sarees in a breathable cotton bag, or saree covers, avoid plastic covers, and for silks, wrap them in muslin cloth to prevent moisture damage.Banarasi Silk Zari Woven Peach Saree Festive Wear-SASVS020PLPE
  3. Gentle Handling & Maintenance – Always fold along the original creases, air-out silk sarees every few months, and use padded hangers for lightweight fabrics to retain their flowy nature.

Wrapping Up on the Timeless Indian Saree Fabrics:

A quick recap on the types of saree materials will reemphasise on the versatility and art implemented in the saree fabrics. From breathable cottons to luxurious silks, sarees are a timeless fashion statement. Weather for daily wear or for an occasion, choose your saree fabric sensibly.Pashmina Zari Embossed Golden Cotton Saree Festive Wear-SASVS012KAGO

Always look out for what the trend shows, but never forget that only wear what you like to wear. Do not get into any pressure, follow your gut and style. For you to explore some stunning saree collections, we at Cbazaar have made it easy to access from one click, here. Happy shopping.