The number of types of silk saree in itself is evidence of the level of sophistication this artistry carries. Evolving over centuries, each textile is sublime in its own way and has developed its own distinct personality.
From Korial silk finding significance in Bengali rituals to Patola becoming a symbol of aristocracy, the various types of silk sarees in India are as pleasing to the eyes as it is soothing to the soul. As an ode to these 6 yards of finesse, we bring to you an indulgent overview of different types of silk sarees.
20 Different Types of Silk Sarees in India
1. Banarasi Silk Saree
It is almost inevitable to list down the different types of silk sarees and not mention banarasi silk, a household name that has almost come to be considered synonyms with this sleek artistry.
Crafted using highly skilled artisans hip and exquisite gold and silver brocade and zari, this finesse finds a revered place in every bride’s trousseau. Explore Banarasi Sarees on Koskii.
2. Assam Silk Saree
Further distinguished into 3 categories, the Assam silk sarees find commonality in the form of the rare silk sources, i.e. Assam-golden Muga, white pat, and warm Eri silk.
Traditionally woven completely by hand, they take almost a month to complete. Adorned with nature-inspired motifs, they are lightweight and rich in texture. Of all types of silk sarees, they are truly durable pieces of art.
3. Baluchari Silk Saree
Crafted using only the cocoon of silkworms, the sarees feature extensive mythology-inspired motifs. Exclusive to a small village in Bengal named Baluchar, this textile has won many awards. A rare gem on our list of types of silk sarees in India.
4. Bomkai Silk Saree
Finding origins in Ganjam (Orissa), these are also known as Sonepuri sarees. The illuminant gold pallu and the border with a hint of contemporary geometric designs sets them apart from all types of silk sarees.
The tribal art influence, as evident in every piece, only enhances its allure.
5. Chanderi Silk Saree
Lightweight, shining, smooth, soft, and transparent sheer texture. All of these are some of the many reasons for this classic finesse’s undying popularity.
A proud possession of Madhya Pradesh, Chanderi silks are instantly recognizable through their gold and silver brocade, fine silk, and opulent embroidery.
6. Dharmavaram Silk Saree
When it comes to south silk saree types, this one is a bride’s best friend. Originating in the Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh, they are known for gold-plated borders and intricately embodied motifs of elephants, peacocks and temples.
7. Gadwal Silk Saree
Another one of the valued handlooms from the various types of silk sarees in India, Gadwal sarees offer a clever combination – the entire saree is in cotton and only the border is made from silk.
The contrasting colour palettes make them a go-to option for comfortable festival wear.
8. Kanjivaram Silk Saree
No matter how many types of silk sarees one owns, the collection is always incomplete without a quintessential Kanjivaram.
It combines the lustrous fabric of pure mulberry silk from Kanchipuram and the acclaimed zari work of Gujarat. From Rekha to Deepika, this regal saree is a well-deserved celebrity favourite.
9. Konrad Silk Saree
A true patron could own all types of silk sarees in india, but still can’t help but dot on this one. Originating in Tamil Nadu, its popularity as a temple saree is preeminent.
The border, its ultimate USP, runs as wide as 10-14 cm and is woven on a monochrome silk palette with narrow bands of supplementary warp patterning.
10. Kota Silk Saree
Adored countrywide for their feather-like weightlessness and easy-to-carry demeanor, Kota silk sarees are crafted by combining pure cotton and silk. Their square (chowkdi) design is an instant eye-catcher.
Just like other types of silk sarees in India, their craftsmanship too calls for intensive labour and creativity. At one point in the process, onion juice and rice paste are smudged into the yarn to increase strength.
11. Korial Silk Saree
The pride of Bengal and especially, Mushidabad, Korai silk sarees retain their nostalgic colour palette. The lavish white base sees deep red-hued borders embodied with dainty zari work. A texture similar to tissue makes them an easy-breezy silhouette, especially preferred during weddings and poojas.
12. Mysore Silk Saree
When listing the essential types of silk sarees for wedding, one simply cannot ignore Mysore silk. This silk saree owes its loyal patronage to its timelessly royal style. Its silky-smooth texture, coupled with traditional designs and a perfect radiance, makes it a classic like no other.
13. Narayanpet Silk Saree
The entire canvas of this saree is made up of embroidered chequered designs, while the pallu embodies ethnic temple renditions. An amalgam of fine craftsmanship from Narayanpet and Telangana, these earthy-hued beauties enjoy the partisanship of Marathas.
14. Organza Silk Saree
The traditionally crafted organza silk saree is luxuriantly soft compared to the recent adaptations in nylon and polyester. In spite of its translucency, its lustre is truly magnetic. Crafted using organza, which is basically fibres of silk that are tightly twisted yarn to accord texture and sheen.
15. Patola Silk Saree
Crafted in the extraordinarily artistic land of Patan (Gujarat), Patola silk saree are some of the most highly-priced silk amongst all types of silk sarees in India, and not without their justifying allure.
The special feature of double ikat weaving, as well as dying each thread separately before being tied together, means a single saree can take as much as a year to finish.
16. Paithani Silk Saree
With its extensively fine silk and vibrant hues, Paithani saree is the childhood dream of every Marathi bride. It has an oblique square design on the borders and an electric pallu with designs such as Peacock, flower, birds, and Ajanta Ellora caves-inspired art that lends it a truly standout look.
17. Raw silk saree
Of all the different types of silk sarees and names in India, this one enjoys wider prevalence. Also known as Paat, Resham and Pattu, it thrives on its sublime simplicity. Made of the most natural and soft fibre that can possibly be weaved, it carries a distinctly smooth texture with subtle illuminance.
18. Tanchoi Silk Saree
A fine example of exemplary craftsmanship, Tanchoi is the weaving process, where a single or double warp and two to five colours on the weft are of the same hued weave as the silk fabric. Born from the ceaseless creativity of Banarasi mastercraftsman, Tanchoi now has many forms, such as Satin Tanchoi, Satin Jari Tanchoi, Atlas, Gilt, and Mushabbar.
19. Sambalpuri Silk Saree
Incorporating another classic artistry of tie and dye, the Sambalpuri silk saree is handwoven in ikat and finds its origins in Sambalpur, Orissa. A four to nine-metre-long finesse, it consists of detailed traditional motifs like sankha, flora and fauna, Krishna Raas Lila and Ayodhya Vijay, and chakra.
20. Pochampally Silk Saree
Another one of Andhra Pradesh’s artistic legacy, Pochampally saree, encompasses an exciting mix of cotton and silk. Even the ikat patterns are woven into the cloth in geometric forms. Symbolic representation of nature takes a central stage in its designs.
All types of silk sarees offer a unique experience. The centuries-long artistic evolution is evident in each thread. To own these masterpieces is not just to own a piece of clothing but to cherish and further the legacy of all types of silk sarees, crafted by skilled Indian artisans.
FAQs on Types of Silk Sarees in India
How many types of silk sarees are there?
If we were to overlook the local variants and subcategories, the total number of silk sarees to ever evolve and be produced till date can be estimated to be around 26. This also includes the ones like Kora and Gadwal sarees which are not entirely made of pure silk.
What type of silk saree is best?
Depending on the preference of texture and weight, the answer may vary for every individual. However, Kanjivaram and Banarasi silk sarees are one of those silk saree types that have enjoyed ceaseless popularity and adoration from people of all generations and styles.
Which silk saree is most expensive?
The Patola and Baluchari saree are some of the most highly-priced sarees on the market. Their labour some production and the time-consuming process often justify the price besides the obvious allure of the fine product. Assam’s Muga silk saree is also priced highly for the premium quality and rarity of its silkworm.