This Banarasi sari was bought from a small shop in Banaras. If one understands the touch and feel of fabrics, the bylanes are the place to find the softest silks.
“For this look, we draped the cotton/silk sari as a skirt with a knot in the front. The idea was to have LaWhore be comfortable but stylish while shopping! The sari is pleated all around the waist. To finish the drape, I pleated the pallu (decorative end) at the shorter side and tucked it into the waist.” – Nikaytaa
Banarasi saris are famous for their fine silk and rich weaving tradition. Originating in the city of Varanasi, or Banaras, these saris are crafted on handlooms by skilled artisans. The weaving process involves stretching quality silk on the loom, hand-weaving motifs inspired by Mughal art, floral patterns, and geometric shapes, and finishing the fabric with meticulous zari embellishment. Banarasi silk is prized for its softness, sheen, and durability, often turning each sari into an heirloom piece.
This sari combines cotton and silk, adding lightness to the traditional richness. Draped as a skirt, it becomes easy to wear while still elegant. Knotting the sari and tucking the pallu adds a touch of personal style and comfort. Shopping in Banaras can lead to hidden treasures, where heritage and daily life meet in every thread.
Did you know the art of Banarasi weaving dates back hundreds of years, surviving Mughal courts and changing fashions? Today, Banarasi saris are worn both for weddings and casual days, valued for their craftsmanship and timeless beauty.
Sari: by lanes of Banaras