Top 37 Types of Sarees in India Every Woman Should Explore

Sarees come in so many styles across India, each holding its own little story, memory, and spark of beauty. With names like Banarasi, Patola, Tussar, and Taant flying around, it’s natural to feel a bit lost. This guide breaks everything down in a simple, friendly way, what each saree is, how it feels, and why women love it. Think of it as a cozy, easy handbook made just for saree lovers.

List of 37 Types of Sarees in India

1. Banarasi Saree

Banarasi sarees come from Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh. They’re known for rich silk, broad borders, and zari work that glows softly under light. Brides often pick them for weddings, but they also work for big family functions. If you like a royal touch without loud color clashes, a Banarasi from Kalyanja is a solid choice.

2. Mysore Silk Saree

Mysore silk sarees are woven in Karnataka and feel smooth, almost buttery, against the skin. Their shine is gentle and elegant. Borders are usually simple yet firm, which gives them a neat look. They look great for poojas, receptions, or even formal office events. You get grace without feeling weighed down.

3. Pochampally Saree

Pochampally sarees from Telangana use the famous Ikkat technique, where threads are dyed before weaving. That’s why the checks and geometric shapes look so sharp. They’re ideal if you like bold, clear patterns instead of heavy embroidery. Slip into a Pochampally and you’ll look traditional yet slightly edgy at the same time.

4. Patola Saree

Patola sarees from Patan in Gujarat are double-ikat masterpieces. Both warp and weft threads are dyed with perfect timing, so the design appears clear on both sides. These saree types are often considered heirloom pieces. They’re pricey but worth every bit if you want something rare, rich in craft, and deeply rooted in history.

5. Tussar Silk Saree

Tussar silk has a natural, slightly rough feel, almost like a hand-made paper. The base color is often a soft gold or beige, which makes other colors on it stand out. These sarees suit both day and evening events. If you like earthy tones and simple jewelry, Tussar and you will get along very well.

6. Bomkai Saree

Bomkai sarees come from Odisha and carry a charming, rustic touch. You’ll often notice small motifs of fish, flowers, or geometric shapes. They can be in cotton or silk, so you can pick based on the weather and occasion. Many women like Bomkai because it quietly shows off handloom craft without shouting for attention.

7. Cotton Saree

Cotton sarees are every woman’s silent hero. Breathable, fuss-free, and easy to carry all day, they’re perfect for daily wear, office, and casual outings. At Kalyanja, customers often start with one decent cotton saree and slowly build a small weekday collection. Add a smart blouse, and even a basic cotton looks sharp.

8. Gadwal Silk Saree

Gadwal sarees usually have a cotton body with pure silk borders and pallu. That mix gives comfort with a festive look. The borders often come in bright contrast shades with simple temple or floral patterns. They’re popular for pujas, family gatherings, and festivals where you want to look dressed up but still move easily.

9. Georgette Saree

Georgette is light, fluid, and never too clingy. It drapes well on most body shapes and is forgiving if you’re not a pro at pleating. Georgette sarees often come with prints, minimal embroidery, or stone work. They’re a good pick for evening parties, receptions, or even a friend’s sangeet when you plan to dance.

10. Kanchipuram / Kanjeevaram Saree

Kanchipuram sarees hail from Tamil Nadu and are woven with pure mulberry silk. They’re known for bold borders, temple motifs, and strong contrasting color combos. Most South Indian brides pick at least one Kanjeevaram for their big day. If you want a saree that looks grand in photos and lasts for decades, this one’s for you.

11. Organza Saree

Organza sarees feel light but hold their shape, giving a crisp, structured drape. They look especially pretty in soft shades with floral prints or light embroidery. Because the fabric is sheer, many women like to pair them with stylish blouses. Organza is great for daytime functions, garden parties, or modern pre-wedding events.

12. Sambalpuri Saree

Sambalpuri sarees from Odisha use traditional ikat weaving, often with shells, wheels, or flowers as motifs. These sarees usually come in cotton or silk-cotton, making them suitable for long hours of wear. They’re a favourite among women who love handloom and want something different from mainstream patterns.

13. Silk Saree

“Silk saree” is a broad term, but the idea is simple: soft, shiny, and rich in texture. Whether it’s pure silk or a good blend, these sarees lift your overall look instantly. At Kalyanja, we see silk sarees worn for weddings, office events, temple visits, and even milestone birthdays.

14. Chanderi Saree

Chanderi sarees come from Madhya Pradesh and are known for their feather-light feel. They mix silk, cotton, or both, with a subtle shine. The motifs are usually small and delicate. If you dislike heavy sarees but still want a festive look, Chanderi gives you that sweet middle ground.

15. Designer Saree

Designer sarees play with cuts, fabrics, and drapes. You may see ruffles, attached jackets, stitched pleats, or unusual color combos. These sarees work well for cocktail parties, receptions, or any event where you want a more modern, city look. In Kalyanja, we often match designer sarees with statement blouses for extra drama.

16. Dharmavaram Silk Saree

Dharmavaram sarees from Andhra Pradesh use thick silk and big contrast borders. The pallu is often richly woven, making them a favourite for weddings and big functions. They’re a bit heavy, but they sit beautifully once draped. If you enjoy a full, grand fall, Dharmavaram is a great pick.

17. Kota Doria Saree

Kota Doria sarees come from Rajasthan and are woven in a light, airy fabric with tiny square checks called “khats.” They’re perfect for hot weather. Many women wear them to work or daytime events because they look neat and graceful without feeling stuffy.

18. Bandhani Saree

Bandhani sarees use a tie-and-dye technique, where fabric is tied into tiny dots and then dyed. Once opened, it reveals pretty patterns of dots and circles. Mostly from Gujarat and Rajasthan, Bandhani sarees are full of color and life. They’re great for pujas, mehendi events, or festive days.

19. Chiffon Saree

Chiffon sarees are soft, sheer, and very light. They fall close to the body and give a graceful flow. Many women choose chiffon for romantic dinners, evening parties, and travel because they pack easily. A simple chiffon saree with a classy blouse can look surprisingly stylish.

20. Kalamkari Saree

Kalamkari sarees showcase art on fabric. The designs may be hand-painted or block-printed with scenes from epics, nature, or village life. The colors are usually earthy and calming. If you love storytelling through clothes, a Kalamkari saree from Kalyanja can feel like wearing a painting.

21. Dola Silk Saree

Dola silk is a soft silk blend with a smooth fall and mild shine. These sarees often come with prints or light embroidery, making them perfect for parties and semi-formal events. They’re comfortable to wear for long hours and suit a wide range of age groups.

22. Leheriya Saree

Leheriya sarees are tie-dyed in flowing, wave-like lines, mostly in Rajasthan. They come in bright, cheerful shades, often worn during festivals like Teej or Raksha Bandhan. If you want something playful and traditional at the same time, Leheriya is a lovely choice.

23. Net Saree

Net sarees are sheer and bold, often paired with heavy blouses. They’re popular for receptions, cocktail nights, and fashion-forward events. If you’re in the mood for a daring look and don’t mind showing a bit of skin, a net saree will do the trick.

24. Paithani Saree

Paithani sarees come from Maharashtra and are known for peacock, lotus, and vine motifs woven in zari. The pallu is the star, often showing detailed designs. These sarees are treasured as wedding trousseau pieces and often passed on to the next generation.

25. Assam Silk Saree

Assam silk sarees use Muga, Eri, or Pat silk. Muga silk has a natural golden tone and ages beautifully. These sarees feel strong yet smooth. They’re perfect if you like sober shades with fine shine rather than loud glitter.

26. Mashru Saree

Mashru fabric has silk on the outer side and cotton on the inner side. This mix gives a rich look while keeping it comfortable on the skin. Mashru sarees often come in bold stripes or checks. They’re good for women who want luxury with ease.

27. Ikkat Saree

Ikkat is a technique, not just a place. Threads are tied and dyed in patterns, then woven to form designs. You’ll find Ikkat sarees from Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Gujarat. They look smart, slightly abstract, and suit both traditional and modern blouses.

28. Taant Saree

Taant sarees are Bengali cotton sarees, usually light and crisp with simple borders. They’re ideal for humid climates and long working days. You’ll often see them in white with red borders during Durga Puja. For daily comfort with a cultural touch, Taant is a clear winner.

29. Kashmiri Saree

Kashmiri sarees often feature Aari or Sozni embroidery with flowers, vines, and paisley patterns. The craft is fine and detailed, inspired by the beauty of the valley. These sarees look best in soft, rich colors and work well for winter weddings and formal family events.

30. Baluchari Saree

Baluchari sarees from West Bengal carry woven scenes from epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata on the pallu. They’re usually made of silk and feel slightly stiff, which helps them drape neatly. If you like sarees that spark conversation, Baluchari is a great pick.

31. Uppada Saree

Uppada sarees from Andhra Pradesh use a jamdani weaving style, where motifs seem to float on the fabric. They’re light, flowy, and look rich without being heavy. Brides and young women alike enjoy Uppada for weddings, receptions, and temple visits.

32. Narayanpet Saree

Narayanpet sarees come from Telangana and are known for checkered bodies and lined borders. They’re available in cotton and silk blends, making them useful for both daily and festive wear. Simple yet distinct, they’re a great start for women building a small handloom collection.

33. Coorgi Saree

Coorgi sarees are more about the drape style used in Coorg, Karnataka. The pleats go at the back, and the pallu comes to the front. Fabrics vary, but cotton and silk blends are common. If you like regional styles, this drape can be a fun change from regular styles.

34. Mangalgiri Saree

Mangalgiri sarees from Andhra Pradesh are known for their firm weave and simple borders, often without heavy motifs. They come in cotton and cotton-silk, perfect for work, temple visits, and casual gatherings. They’re strong, comfortable, and look neat even after many wears.

35. Venkatagiri Saree

Venkatagiri sarees are fine cotton sarees from Andhra Pradesh, famous for their soft feel. Motifs are usually small and spread out, giving a clean look. These sarees are ideal if you want airy comfort with a touch of elegance for day-to-day use.

36. Ilkal Saree

Ilkal sarees from Karnataka have a unique joining between body and pallu, called “tope teni.” They often feature red, green, and earth tones, with traditional patterns on the pallu. They’re sturdy and practical, loved by teachers, office-goers, and older women who wear sarees daily.

37. Chettinad Saree

Chettinad sarees from Tamil Nadu are bold, bright cotton sarees with checks, stripes, and contrast borders. They’re perfect for hot climates and long days. If you like strong colors and a no-nonsense drape, Chettinad sarees will feel just right.

Conclusion

Sarees carry memories, moments, and meanings. Each type in this list has its own story, and somewhere in between all these threads, you’ll find one that feels like you. At Kalyanja, we’ve seen how the right saree can bring a smile, spark confidence, or even remind someone of home.

Whether you prefer soft cotton for everyday comfort or rich silk for big celebrations, there’s a saree waiting to become a part of your life. And the best part? These sarees aren’t just outfits,  they’re pieces of India you can wear with pride.

Keep celebrating our traditions. Keep adding new styles to your wardrobe. And most importantly, keep feeling beautiful in the way only a saree can make you feel.

If you're ready to explore or try something new, your journey starts right here.