Sarees are not just a piece of garment, rather a tradition passed on through generations. They embody culture, heritage and a versatile nature that makes them timeless. If you are someone who is wearing them for the first time or you are not sure which type of saree you should wear for the upcoming occasion; then fret not, this guide covers everything about styling sarees.
Best Fabrics for Sarees
Sarees are available in multiple fabrics, and can be chosen based on climate, occasion, and one’s unique style.
Georgette-Chiffon-Crepe
The most versatile fabric in saree is chiffon. They come in plain, embroidered, and embellished designs and are easy to drape.
Chiffon Sarees: The most favorite fabric when it comes to sarees. Chiffon is easy to drape, offers a very sleek silhouette and comes in both embroideries and embellishments. It is the most bought designer saree and exudes a festive appeal.
Georgette Sarees: Known for their flowy, soft and matte finish, georgette sarees exude elegance and are easy to style.
Crepe Sarees: Crepe features a unique appearance with its crinkled texture yet soft fabric, making it ideal for informal events and daily wear.
When to Wear: Style these sarees for dinners, semi-formal events, and receptions.
Silk Sarees
When it comes to sarees, silk is considered as the premium fabric amongst them. They can be worn on multiple occasions and are further categorized into some sub types.
Banarsi Silk: Known for their regal appeal, Banarsi sarees are favorite of women and girls alike. They have intricate Zari self-prints giving them that royal look.
Tissue Silk: A rather light and breathable fabric, these sarees are made from sheer fabric; a combination of metallic threads with silk. If you want an elegant or shimmery look, this should be your choice of fabric.
Raw Silk: Having a natural texture and matte finish these sarees are created from unprocessed silk. Exhibiting lightweight properties, raw silk sarees are ideal for formal occasions.
When to Wear: These sarees can be worn on festive occasions and weddings.
Cotton Sarees
If you are thinking upon wearing saree as your daily ensemble, then cotton sarees will be ideal for you.
Chikankari Cotton: These sarees stem from Lucknow and are woven with intricate embroideries. Being lightweight and comfortable they are an ideal choice for semi-formal events.
Ajrak Cotton: Geometric patterns in the colors of red, blue, and indigo, Ajrak is a traditional fabric of Sindh. The sarees hold a heritage in them due to their cultural diversity.
Malmal Cotton: A very soft and breathable fabric that is ideal for daily wear in hot climates; Malmal offers subtle prints and light embroidery.
When to Wear: You can style these sarees for your daily work wear and casual summer outings.
Net and Organza Sarees
These fabrics exhibit a festive feel. They are lightweight, transparent, and have an airy feel to them.
Net Sarees: Created from open weave and fine fabric, net sarees are delicate and sheer. They come in plain colors and embroideries as well as in heavily embellished motifs and details that make them a luxury staple for weddings.
Organza Sarees: A sheer, stiff, and crisp fabric; organza sarees are known for their structured drape. Mostly styled for bridal showers these sarees radiate a sophisticated appeal.
When to Wear: Best for weddings, receptions, bridal showers, formal, and evening events.
Styling Tips for Sarees
While styling your saree for different occasions, consider the following styling tips.
Blouse Styles: Experiment with your blouse styles. You can go for a high neck or boat neck blouse and can even add some lace to your organza saree blouses.
Saree Drape: You can opt to drape your saree differently for a changed outlook for example drape your banarsi saree in the Bengali style for a more accurate cultural representation.
Jewelry Options: Pair your silk sarees with gold or silver studs and chokers depending on the colors and for your heavily embellished sarees, detailed earrings serve as a better match.
Footwear: For festive gatherings go for heels and wedges so you can have a taller silhouette. Contrary to these go for sandals and flats for more intimate events whilst not compromising on comfort.
Hair: You can never go wrong with a sleek bun for a banarsi saree and long curls with a chiffon or georgette saree.
Makeup: With your heavily embellished sarees, go for light makeup and a dark lip this will not overpower your saree. Whereas, for your light and plain sarees opt for bold makeup.
Anybody can wear a saree, but only a few can style it to perfection. Consider these tips to represent culture and tradition in the most authentic yet modern, and chic way. Don’t forget to check for any upcoming sale on brands before making your purchase, this will benefit you with a discounted rate.