Silk Sarees of India- ONCE A SILK, ALWAYS A SILK!

The moment someone hears silk sarees, she is transported into the world of abundance beauty and royalty. Silk sarees are also known to be offered to Goddesses and to close relatives as well. Silk is considered one of the grandest and is the popular fabric. Weddings are incomplete if it does not include silk saree specifically. But nevertheless, wedding trousseau is made of silk particularly. The importance of silk sarees in India is such that they are saved for generations and the elders of the family gift the bride with heirloom silk sarees along with jewelry.

So why is silk considered to be so important and auspicious as well?

Silk is popular because of its versatility. It is considered to be natural protein fabric that includes smoothness and luster making it look rich and luxurious. Though the texture is smooth, silk sarees are not slippery or flimsy unlike the synthetic sarees. Intense and intricate zari work can be done on silk sarees. When wearing a saree, aspects like the design, color, fabric, cut and texture are important, and this is one of the reasons why silk saree is considered to be the favorite.

Creating delicate designs on sarees with silk yarn leads to the beauty and grace of the saree itself. Silk is known for its natural tensile strength. So unique is silk because of the power of its texture, it pliability and its absorbency.

Silk can easily be blended with other yarns and can be dyed as well. Zari and brocade are designed by blending silk with metallic yarn. No other fiber will give you the kind of look that silk exudes. It gives the wearer not only a feel of comfort but also a royal look as well.

History of Silk

It is said that silk was first developed in China. During pre-industrial times, silk was one of the most important items to be exported of international trade. Only the royals wore silk, later it was to be adorned by the elite. India is not left behind when it comes to silk as references of silk and sericulture can be found here in Indus Valley Civilization and is also found in Harappa archaeological records. Silk, is known to have reached the Western culture from Asia.

India is known to not only be the largest producers of silk, along with China but we also have a huge consumer base for silk. Since long, silk has always been associated with auspiciousness, wealth and royalty in Indian culture.

Popularity of Silk

Today, with a multitude of weaving techniques and styles, silk is considered as one of the most sought after fabrics. With a multitude of different cultures included with a bit of foreign influence and indigenous production or weaving techniques, it has led to the development of amazing and intricate saree arts. It is amazing to know that each and every region of India has its own special, native saree. These are hand-woven, handloom sarees that are made of pure silk fiber or is a blend of cotton and zari.

Some of the popular silk sarees of India are, Paithani, Patola, Tussar Silk, Mangalkari, or Kanjeevaram sarees. Georgette and crepe fabrics sarees are actually created using the silk fiber. Silk is an integral aspect in the world of sarees. You will find different varieties such as, printed silk sarees, silk-cotton
blended sarees or trendy designer sarees.