Saree Fabrics Explained: Chiffon, Georgette, Silk and Banarasi

Two sarees can look almost identical on a hanger and behave completely differently once draped. The fabric is the reason. Here is what each one actually does when you wear it.

Chiffon

Light, semi-sheer and very fluid. Chiffon falls close to the body and creates soft, narrow pleats, which is why it suits slimmer silhouettes and warm rooms. It creases less than you would expect and packs well for travel. It does need a proper petticoat and a firm blouse, because the fabric itself gives no structure.

Georgette

A close relative of chiffon with more grip and a slightly crinkled surface. That texture makes georgette far easier to drape if you are still learning: the pleats stay where you put them instead of sliding. It is our usual recommendation for a first saree.

Silk and raw silk

Silk has body. It holds a shape, gives a defined pleat and carries a formal shine under evening light. Raw silk is thicker again with a visible slub texture, which reads as rich and traditional rather than floaty. Both are warmer to wear, so they suit winter events and air-conditioned halls better than a summer afternoon.

Banarasi

A woven silk from Varanasi, patterned with gold or silver zari thread rather than printed or embroidered. Banarasi sarees are heavy, structured and formal, which is exactly why they remain a wedding and heirloom choice. Expect fewer, deeper pleats and a weight you can feel across the shoulder.

Velvet and heavy embellished sarees

Velvet and heavily embellished pieces make an impact for bridal and reception wear. They are the heaviest option by a distance, so pin the pallu securely and be realistic about how long you will be standing.

A quick way to choose

• Summer or a long day: chiffon or georgette.
• First time draping a saree: georgette.
• Formal evening or winter wedding: silk or raw silk.
• Bridal, reception or a milestone occasion: Banarasi, velvet or a heavy embellished saree.

Do not forget the blouse and petticoat

Most sarees are supplied with an unstitched blouse piece, which needs to be tailored before the event. Leave time for that. A matching petticoat matters more than people expect: the wrong colour shows through lighter fabrics, and a loose one ruins the drape no matter how good the saree is.

Browse the range

See our saree collection for everyday and occasion pieces, or heavy sarees for bridal and reception wear. We also stock petticoats, readymade blouses and saree falls so you can put a whole look together in one order.