Fashion Vocab 101: Parts Of A Saree

We just celebrated Republic Day and I felt we should give an ode to our rich heritage. We should talk about something that is quintessentially Indian for a change. Keeping that in mind, let’s take the topic towards the 6 yards of magic. The fabric is an Indian phenomenon and an integral part of every Indian wardrobe. From occasions to adding oomph to an otherwise monotonous day, saree has always been a favorite for Indian women. Indians settled abroad still look towards this 6-yard beauty whenever the occasion calls for something traditional and chic. While saree has been a part of every history chapter, many of us still struggle to identify the parts of a saree. For those who are still lost on the concept or parts of a saree, here’s something to enrich your knowledge,

Read more- Spring Trends 2022; A Respite From The Wave Of Sweatpants

The very first evidence of a saree was found from the Indus civilization. The first documentation of saree was done in 1800 with that of a Portuguese traveler. He documented the style in which a saree was draped.

New to the world of saree or always wore it just for the sake of wearing it? Not anymore! Here is a guide to help you navigate through this richness of the 6 yards.

1. Body

This is the main part of a saree. It covers the larger space in the fabric and often has the most work/print/embroidery.

2. Border

This part is found on both sides of the fabric. It can be small or broad or can go up to the knee. This distinct part of a saree can be either woven or in contrast texture or color. The compactness of the border helps in the draping process. It makes the saree manageable and more structured towards the pleats.

3. Pallav/pallu/anchal

This is the end of the saree. It can be either ornamented or in a different style than the body or it can have a busier print. The major challenge a designer face while designing a saree is the part of the pallav. The pallav or anchal acts as the conclusion of the entire saree where it should include elements from the border and the body but it should still look different than the rest of the sari. Deviating from this, the new age sarees are sporting a uniform design throughout the body and the pallav.

Apart from the body of the sari, as a product, there are certain parts that the user needs to identify after they have adorned the attire. Once you have worn a sari, the identification of plates etc becomes important. Refer to the image for a better understanding of the terms (while wearing a sari).

Today we see sarees becoming readymade or going through a whole lot of transformation. From elasticated waist to pre-pleated pallav, the narrative of this 6-yard beauty is changing to suit the modern age mood.

Picture courtesy- 1, 2, 3, 4