Be it the royal heritage of Paithani silk saree in Maharashtra, or the pride of handloom with Tussar silk sarees in Kolkata – India has a rich variety of traditional and handcrafted silk sarees originating in different states of India. As Indian women, we have seen our mothers and grandmothers drape different varieties of silk on various occasions. And time and again, we have been mesmerized by their beauty and artistic elegance. No matter the age, body type, or skin colour, wearing a saree brings out the best look in everyone!
Consider yourself a saree-o-holic? You have come to the right place. Below, we discuss the different types of silk sarees that every woman must have in their wardrobe.
Banarasi Silk Saree
One of the finest quality traditional silk sarees, Banarasi sarees are characterized by their gold and silver zari work. Originating in the ancient city of Benaras, now Varanasi, the intricate and hand-woven zari designs are said to be Mughal inspired. In the olden days, real gold and silver threads were used to weave a Banarasi saree. Because of its heavy and royal look, Banarasi sarees are a top favourite for many Indian brides as their choice of a wedding saree
Kanjeevaram / Kanchipuram Silk Saree
Whether you visit silk saree shops in Kolkata or Bangalore, Kanjeevaram silk sarees are always the premium offering in every saree shop in this country. Made from pure mulberry silk grown in the Kanchipuram district of Tamil Nadu, Kanjeevaram sarees are known for their bright colours with thick contrast borders and golden zari. They commonly feature floral motifs, temple borders, stripes and checks designs. Kanjeevaram silk, also known as Kanchipuram silk, carries the GI (geographical indication) mark by the Government of India.
Tussar Silk Saree
Tussar silk, also known as wild silk, is made from the larvae of several species of silkworms belonging to the moth genus Antheraea. The silk produced is said to have a rich texture and a natural golden glow to the fabric. Tussar silk sarees are the epitome of elegance with the dull gold fabric working as a perfect base for both embroidery work and printed motifs. Tussar silk sarees in Kolkata are especially popular because of their understated charm and glamour.
Chanderi Silk Saree
If you shy away from wearing silk sarees because they feel heavy and bulky, Chanderi silk saree is a great option for you. Produced in the Chanderi district of Madhya Pradesh, these sarees are lightweight and comfortable. The silk has a soft and transparent texture with a little bit of shimmer in it. Traditionally, Chanderi saree had coin-shaped motifs woven in gold or silver threads to give the saree a simple yet distinctive look. But nowadays, floral and geometric patterns are weaved into the saree. Chanderi silk sarees also carry a GI tag.
Mysore Silk Saree
One of the softest and purest silks you can have in your wardrobe, the Mysore silk sareeis made out of pure mulberry silk manufactured in the Mysore district of Karnataka. The fabric has a slightly glossy finish with non-crush quality. Traditionally, Mysore silk sarees feature motifs like birds, fruits, and trees. They make a simple yet elegant style statement.
Wrapping Up
There are many more silk sarees in India to explore and talk about. But in the above list, we have mentioned the must-have pieces. Visit any of the silk saree shops in Kolkata and you will surely find a lot many options for the ones mentioned above.