The origins of the Banarasi saree, the traditional bridal saree, can be traced to the Mughal Empire. The gorgeous gold and silver zari work, glossy material, and delicate embroidery of Banarasi sarees are well known. The saree is greatly valued by women all over the world as it has a very luxurious and royal vibe to it. Moreover, the Banarasi silk sarees are like poetry on fabrics with captivating designs and patterns. Women can wear it to many different events and appear their most beautiful.

Let us find out more about Banarasi sarees and how you can style them for various occasions.

Banarasi Sarees: A Timeless Legacy

A brief glimpse into history uncovers the rise of Banarasi sarees during the British colonial era. These sarees gained popularity among wealthy families and the royal courts due to their intricate weaving, which included designs drawn from nature, geometric patterns, and Mughal artistry.

The Banarasi sarees have now evolved and are available in a wide variety of fabrics, including silk, georgette, and organza, to suit current fashionistas’ preferences.

Banarasi sarees have a Geographical Indication (GI) certification, guaranteeing their heritage and authenticity, for its delicate creativity and exceptional craftsmanship. Banarasi sarees are being used as status and prestige symbols.

Banarasi Sarees for Every Occasion

Banarasi sarees are versatile and suitable for many events, not only weddings or events. They work well for both informal and formal events, such as parties, wedding receptions, and cultural festival.

You can wear them traditionally or with a modern twist, such as by wearing a crop top or blouse with them and accessorizing with a belt for a fresh look. Banarasi silk sarees allow you to shine on every occasion by bridging the gap between heritage and contemporary.

How to Choose the Right Banarasi Saree

Choosing the right banarasi saree is an art that involves a keen eye for detail. It is essential to consider things like the occasion, weather, your body type, and your personal style.

First, consider the occasion. Weddings may call for heavily embellished silk sarees, while lighter fabric sarees like georgette are apt for casual events. Second, consider the colour palette. For daytime events, choose pastel hues; for evening events, deeper shades like red, pink, and blue with decorative borders are preferred.

Also, pay attention to the design element. Whether it’s peacock patterns, geometric patterns, or floral motifs, pick a pattern that goes with your personal style.
When you combine these factors, you’ll have no trouble selecting the Banarasi saree that fits your style and perfectly suits the occasion.

How to Style a Banarasi Saree

The key to styling a Banarasi saree is to appreciate its regal beauty.

• For a contemporary look, try draping in the seedha pallu, Nivi, Rajrani, or even the dhoti drape.
• Consider pairing your saree with traditional gold jewelry.
• Add layers into your outfit by adding a cape, jacket, or shrug to bring out the beauty of your Banarasi saree.
• Opt for a sleek bun hairstyle to showcase the intricate pallu of your saree.

Styling a Banarasi Saree for Different Events

Banarasi sarees are now the go-to ensemble for most women, and you can flaunt them at weddings or cocktail parties.

• Weddings and Receptions: Choose an eye-catching shade, such as ruby red or emerald green, and make sure the sarees are embellished with multiple traditional designs and patterns, thick borders, and extras like gota patti work or sequins.
• Parties and Social Gatherings: Go for lighter Banarasi fabrics like chiffons and organza. To give your party outfit a modern touch, pair it with a belt, a chic blouse, or opt for sleek jewelry.
  
  
• Festivals and Cultural Events: Banarasi sarees are the perfect choice for Indian festive celebrations. Choose colors with jewel tones like fiery yellow, blue, and red that are decorated with traditional designs.
• Work and Professional Settings: Consider a Banarasi saree in lighter hues with less prints and patterns. Peach, light yellow, and steel grey are suitable shades for workplaces. Put on peep toes or pumps with them. To modernize your traditional saree, keep your accessories simple with little studs, a chain, and a pendant.

Fashion Influencers & Banarasi Sarees

At many events nowadays, style icons are wearing luxurious Banarasi sarees like those made of Uppada silk, Kora silk, Handloom silk, Katan silk, and gold weave.

Fashion influencers like Neha Sharma aka Stylewali, Chinna Dua, Mamta Sharma Das, and Ashvini Narayan, are giving these vintage sarees a modern update through innovative draping styles and contemporary accessories.

How to Accessorize a Banarasi Saree

We have a special place in our hearts for Banarasi sarees, and the ideal accessories can bring out their vibrant hues and regal look.

• Opt for Matching Jewelry: Given the rich design of Banarasi sarees, they look stunning when accessorized with jewelry that highlights their regal aspect. Think of jewelry in the polki style, jadau jewelry, stone, and pearl jewelry that work wonders to elevate the regal look of the saree.
• Opt for Modern Bags and Footwear: While stilettos are a classic choice with sarees, you can experiment with different footwear options like loafers, sneakers, and juttis to give your look a unique twist. For extra attention, accessorize your Banarasi silk saree with gorgeous potlis, decorated clutches and embroidered handbags. Don’t go overboard with extra accessories as the saree deserves to take the spotlight, not the accessories.

How to Maintain a Banarasi Saree

While you may take pride in wearing authentic Banarasi sarees, it’s essential to care for the fabric to ensure its lasting grace. The delicate materials used to make these regal sarees require additional care to maintain their quality over time.

• Always dry clean your Banarasi sarees.
• Wrap them in a soft muslin cloth and store them inside your closet.
• Do not hang your expensive saree on metal hangers since they may rust and leave unattractive stains.
• Avoid putting perfume directly on the saree as this could cause stains and potentially ruin the fabric.

Banarasi silk sarees continue to be a popular option for Indian brides, and for good reasons. They are historically significant, represent luxury, and showcase excellent craftsmanship and rich textiles.

When opting for the perfect Banarasi silk saree for your D-day, consider the different types of silk, awe-inspiring designs, vibrant color, intricate borders and pallu, weight, fit, and the ideal blouse. Keep these factors in mind while shopping for a saree that suits your style and makes you shine like a regal queen on your big day.

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