12 Exquisite Types of Kanchipuram Sarees You Need to Know
The Kanchipuram Silk saree is also known as one of the best types of luxury sarees from South India and is also recognized for its long-standing traditions. It is produced in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, India, and among all of the woven sarees produced here, the Kanchipuram saree has the longest history and is therefore considered one of the original woven sarees in India.
The Kanchipuram saree is known for its high quality of silk fabric, beautiful, vibrant colors, extensive use of four/twelve strands of Zari thread in its sewing, and is often gifted down from a mother to her daughter as an heirloom. Because of this, it is highly valued among saree lovers.
Kanchipuram sarees are popular amongst brides and are given on special occasions or family functions, and are often associated with significant weddings and festivals. Each Kanchipuram saree is exceptional in its own right, demonstrating artistry, riches, and elegance via the many weaving designs, motifs, and patterns available. This article will outline the twelve best types of Kanchipuram sarees that every saree lover should be aware of.
- Traditional Temple Border Kanchipuram Saree
The temple borders sarees are a famous example of Kanchipuram Saris. Temple borders sarees have their borders designed to imitate the architectural style of the temples in South India, which is how they got their name; the borders represent “gopurams” or towers of temples.
The geometric designs are bold and create a sense of power and spirituality for those who wear them. These saris are woven using brilliant colors such as maroon, deep mustard yellow, green, and red; therefore, a bridesmaid will wear these saris when she is attending a wedding or religious function because they exude a sense of tradition and elegance.
- Zari Heavy Kanchipuram Saree
Over-the-top luxurious, Zari Heavy Kanchipuram Saris can be described in one word…unparalleled! These saris are created from pure gold or silver Zari! The shine and thickness of the Zari are truly impressive.
The pallu and borders of the saris are embellished with gorgeous designs of flowers, paisleys, and mythological symbols. As a result, these saris are considered by many to be heirloom-quality pieces that a bride would wear on her wedding day and exemplify the best of the best in terms of traditional weaving capability.
- Korvai Kanchipuram Saree
The Korvai technique is an indicator of authentic Kanchipuram weaving. As per this method of crafting the saree, it is created via separately weaving the body and the border of the saree and then joining them together seamlessly.
This technique allows for an exceptional level of colour contrast, such as a vibrant body with a rich contrasting border. In addition, Korvai saris demonstrate technical expertise of the weavers, and Korvai saree is viewed as the best type of Kanjivaram sarees.
- Broad Border Kanchipuram Saree
Traditional Indian sarees from Kanchipuram feature bold and vibrant colors with large borders that often incorporate traditional designs or patterns of zari (metal) weaving, or are inspired by temples.
The broad border provides a perfect way to show off the beauty of the gorgeously draped saree as it creates an elegant silhouette; hence, these sarees have continued to be loved by many who appreciate and wear traditional Indian sarees.
- Floral Motif Kanchipuram Saree
Kanchipuram sarees with floral patterns are a gentle, more artistic way to look at traditional Kanchipuram sarees as seen from an artistic perspective. Floral Kanchipuram sarees are influenced by the beauty of nature, featuring motifs such as lotuses, jasmine flowers, and other types of flowers and plants.
These gorgeous floral Kanchipuram sarees have been designed for festive gatherings and formal events. They have a wonderful mix of tradition and modernity and will appeal to people who like to see delicate patterns rather than heavy embellished ones.
- Mythological Motif Kanchipuram Saree
Legendary Pattern Sarees are Contemporarily Embedded in Culture. Mythological motif sarees have an attested tradition from antiquity (before 3300 BC) to the present day and are still produced for over 1500 years.
Legend motif sarees can often portray quite detailed scenes and elaborate depictions of the Ramayana or Mahabharata, as well as an array of gods and goddesses, chariots, and other divine beings. In fact many of these sarees display detailed reproductions of Ramayana and Mahabharata type images. Legend sarees are worn at festivals and worship and represent a great connection to cultural pride.
- Checks and Stripes Kanchipuram Saree
The modern look of Kanchipuram silk sarees with checks or stripes will appeal to women who appreciate modern design along with traditional craftsmanship. Created with silk yarns of different colours, contrasting colour combinations give these sarees a very formal, yet structured design. The Kanchipuram silk saree with check or stripe designs can be worn for festivals and celebrations, as well as for business or formal occasions.
- Plain Body Kanchipuram Saree with Contrast Border
Elegant and very simple, this variation can be described as a solid coloured bodice with rich contrast weaving at the bottom/pleats.
The simplicity of the bodice enhances the intricacy of the Zari weaving on the bodice, sleeve and pallu. These sarees are typically used for special occasions; weddings, receptions and cultural functions.
- Wedding Kanchipuram Saree
A Wedding Kanchipuram saree is generally the most ornate garment women possess. Typically made with a thick or heavy Zari work; generally the colours include rich Red, Gold, and Emerald Green. Common motifs include Peacocks and Mangoes due to their auspicious connotations.
Wedding Kanchipuram sarees are generally given to female family members as heirlooms representing both heritage as well as affluence and the start of a fresh chapter in their lives.
- Vintage Kanchipuram Saree
Vintage Kanchipuram sarees are an embodiment of an old-world charm and the traditional color palettes. The dull tones; borders, which follow the traditional patterns and color combination (with mixing &j mixing) hearken back to earlier woven pieces of the past.
Collectors are particularly attracted to these styles because of their authenticity, time immemorial quality.
- Contemporary Designer Kanchipuram Saree
Pastel shades, minimalist motifs and experimental motifs are now becoming standard in the design of modern Kanchipuram is as Designers have taken the saree forward into the modern world. The Kanjivaram saree still has its base silk and zari to provide a luxurious feel, making them Popular with today’s contemporary Korean brides and Festival Wear.
Contemporary Kanjivaram sarees combine Historical Elements of Manufacturing with Today’s Fashion Trends, allowing brides from modern generations to Showcase Their Unique Styles at Festivities.
- Lightweight Kanchipuram Silk Saree
Kanchipuram sarees are loved by many, but for those that want a more comfortable and lighter option, lightweight Kanchipuram sarees have been made from finer silk and lighter zari to make them much simpler to drape and much easier to wear for long periods of time.
These Kanchipuram sarees are perfect for daytime events and formal occasions, as well as during festivals when both elegance and comfort are desired.
Why Kanchipuram Sarees Are Truly Special
Kanchipuram sarees are distinguished by their high-quality craftsmanship, which uses the finest quality silk from mulberry trees, as well as their ancient methods of weaving, which have been practiced for hundreds of years. Due to the time and attention needed for the creation of each saree, every one of them is an individual work of art.
No matter what you are looking for, bold borders to elaborate designs, or something very simple, there is a Kanchipuram saree that will best suit your taste and occasion. Today, they continue to represent a classic symbol of textile heritage for the country of India and as such retain their historical significance within the world of traditional sarees from South India.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is there a difference between the Kanchipuram saree and Kanjivaram saree?
No. Both are names give to the same type of saree; they are traditional silk sarees originating from the Kanchipuram region. Kanjivaram is simply different pronunciation of Kanchipuram.
What makes a Kanchipuram saree authentic?
The material that Kanchipuram sarees are made from is a pure mulberry silk and true Zari (gold and silver thread). The border of the Kanchipuram saree and the body of the saree are created separately, then sewn together using the Korvai technique.
Can Kanchipuram saris be worn on a daily basis?
Traditional Kanchipuram sarees certainly are a great option for special occasions. But many manufacturers now make lightweight contemporary saree versions that can be worn for daily and festive purposes.
