You see a woman draped in an elegant sari (also spelled saree), dancing around gracefully and you are left in amazement. How does one transform six yards of fabric into such effortless beauty? Fear not, we are here to break it all down for you.
The sari holds a special place in the hearts of Indian women. It is more than just a piece of cloth- it's a reflection of our heritage, values, and the embodiment of our cultural identity. It is mentioned in Rig-Vedas in 3000 BC, and the word “sari” in Sanskrit means a strip of cloth. This strip of cloth has captured the imagination of Indian women, and few men, for millennia, and its appeal is timeless.
It is 6-9 yards of fabric that is draped on a fitted skirt called a petticoat. It is paired with a top called blouse or choli, which has evolved recently from a plain side-kick to a statement piece of the ensemble. Some designer saris are often simple, paired with a heavily embellished blouse. You can change the whole look of the sari by changing the blouse.
A sari is a very forgiving garment, allowing one to personalize the look. You can show the midriff and create a sexy look, or choose to cover it up for a more modest look.
Versatility Beyond Boundaries
One of the most remarkable aspects of the sari is its incredible versatility. Each region of India has its own unique way of draping the sari, and this diversity speaks to the cultural wealth of the country.
In North India, the elegant drape of the "Pallu" over the left shoulder is a signature Nivi style. On the other hand, the Nauvari (9 yard) sari, traditionally worn in Maharashtra, highlights the graceful draping technique that makes it comfortable to move around in. Down South, the Kanjivaram sari is often draped in a distinctive style that showcases the rich border and intricate motifs. In the East, the Bengali style sari draping is characterized by its pleats worn in the front. In the western states of Gujarat and Rajasthan, the pallu is pulled over the right shoulder, giving it a unique look.
Younger women often experiment with the different draping techniques, and combine pieces from different garments, coming up with new looks. This has led to a lot of newer versions of the sari such as sharara sari, lehenga sari, and gown saris.
A Sari for Every Occasion
In rural India, sari is still the garment of choice for everyday wear. However, urban women have moved to more comfortable salwar suits and western wear. In the US, saris are worn only for festivities or weddings, making them even more special.
Saris come in a myriad of fabrics from exotic silks to cotton, chiffon to organza, and linen to blended fabrics. Whether it's a Banarasi sari from Varanasi or Bandhani and Patola from Gujarat, Chanderi from Madhya Pradesh or Kanjivaram from Tamilnadu, Dhakai Jamdani from Bengal or Uppada Pattu saris from Andhra Pradesh, each of these handcrafted saris is a piece of art to be cherished and passed down. It is also a canvas for intricate embroidery, dazzling embellishments, and beautiful prints & color combinations that cater to every mood and moment.
For those who are unfamiliar, draping a sari may seem daunting. However, fret not, as we carry pre-stitched saris, making it as simple as putting on a skirt and top and draping the pallu over your shoulder to complete the look.
The Power of Choice
At Marigold, we understand that every woman's taste is unique. That is why we offer a wide range of saris for rent to suit your preferences and the occasion. Our collection includes traditional silk saris, chic chiffon saris, and contemporary designer saris. If you are in the mood for something fusion, we also have sharara sari, lehengas saris and gown saris to choose from.
You can rent a perfect sari to make a statement, confident that you're wearing a piece of India's rich culture and heritage.