Banarasi Silk Sarees: Traditional Designs to Wear at Weddings and Family Functions

For a wedding, a Katan silk Banarasi saree in red, maroon or a deep bridal tone with gold zari is the most prominent choice as are georgette and tissue fabrics with a light design, which will work better for lighter daytime or evening events. Whereas Banarasi silk sarees will carry fine zari work, detailed design and a drape that can capture really well. The right pick will always depend on your role in the wedding, the function you are dressing for and how often you want to wear the saree afterwards. Here, I have covered all important aspects about Banarasi sarees with fabrics, designs, colours and styling along with practical advice, so read on to find a saree that will feel traditional yet authentic.

Banarasi Fabric Comparison at a Quick Look

Beautiful Banarasi Silk Sarees For Women To Wear On Weddings and Functions

1. Red Banarasi Silk Sarees

Red Banarasi Silk Sarees | Source: Pinterest

Red is the most recognised bridal colour in many North Indian wedding traditions and a red saree with gold zari borders and a heavy pallu stands out clearly so it will look formal and authentic without needing extra embroidery. A red Katan silk Banarasi will give the colour real depth as bright red can feel too strong and sindoor red or a muted crimson will offer a more refined look.

• Best for—Wedding ceremony, bridal function and other major functions after the wedding like haldi or mehndi.

• Jewellery—Kundan or polki choker, maang tikka and gold-toned kadas will work great.

• Outfit idea—A red saree with a gold tissue blouse and a low bun with gajra is the perfect option.

2. Maroon Banarasi Silk Sarees

Maroon Banarasi Silk Sarees | Source: Pinterest

The maroon colour has the depth of red but is quite serene and sophisticated. This shade is ideal for a bride who wishes to have a traditional wedding but does not wish to wear an extremely vibrant shade, while it is equally appropriate for the parents of the couple. The antique gold jewellery, along with temple pieces, will look fabulous in combination with maroon.

• Suitable For—ceremony, reception, mother of the bride or groom.

• Jewellery—Simple temple necklaces along with jhumkas and matching bangles.

• Outfit—Maroon saree teamed with a bottle green blouse and polki earrings.

3. Rani Pink Banarasi Sarees

Rani Pink Banarasi Sarees | Source: Pinterest

Rani pink and magenta are some of the best choices compared to red colours. The colour is youthful and energetic, but at the same time, it captures well in day and night lighting. It is perfect for sister and bridesmaid parties and for close family members too.

• Outfit suggestion—Rani pink saree paired with a mustard or gold blouse.

• Best for—You can wear this forengagement, sangeet, wedding occasions and family get togethers.

• Jewellery—The pearl drop jewellery in gold and meenakari styles can be the perfect option.

4. Green Banarasi Silk Sarees

Green Banarasi Silk Sarees | Source: Pinterest

The colour green has always found a place in the festive wardrobe of Indians as Emerald, bottle green and forest green give a nice contrast to the gold zari and look luxurious without appearing too bridal. Green georgette Banarasi is an ideal fabric for mehendi as it drapes well and is light in weight. A heavy silk katan in bottle green may also be suitable for a formal event.

• Best suited for—Mehendi, pre-wedding parties, guests & family functions.

• Blouse—Maroon, red, gold, pink, or mustard.

• Jewellery—Temple gold, jhumkas & green or gold bangles.

5. Gold Tissue Banarasi Sarees

Gold Tissue Banarasi Sarees | Source: Pinterest

Banarasi fabric is reflective; hence, the saree appears very bright without having heavy zari work. This makes Tissue Banarasi suitable for use in receptions, dinner events and evening occasions. Whereas this saree is also light to wear compared to heavy Katan sarees and it will complement your attire with a richly colored blouse to create a contemporary yet classic look.

• Best for—This is perfect for wedding receptions, cocktail parties and evening functions.

• Blouse matching—Crimson, green, purple and antique gold.

• Jewellery—You can go for diamond jewellery with a bun or waved hairstyle.

The Rich History and Cultural Significance of Banarasi Silk

The weaving of Banarasi is associated with Varanasi and is said to have evolved during the Mughal period due to the combination of Persian designs featuring flowers and vines along with local craftsmanship. Originally, it was used by kings and queens and gold and silver zari brocade has become the choice fabric for family weddings amongst various cultures; hence, a Banarasi saree is a traditional gift that is passed from one generation to another. Handloom Banarasi weaving is practised in Varanasi and its surrounding clusters and is recognised with a Geographical Indication mark.

• Craft value—Depending on the design of the saree, the weaving process can take anywhere from days to weeks.

• Family value—Most families have a Banarasi saree that they wear time and again.

• Local variation—As wedding practices vary by location and community and no particular kind of saree is a must-have.

Banarasi silk sarees will combine heritage, fine craft and wedding-ready style so you can choose Katan for ceremonies, georgette or tissue for lighter functions and a colour that will suit your role and family tradition. You can confirm fabric and loom details before buying and plan your blouse, jewellery and drape early and a thoughtful pick can serve you well on the wedding day and at many festivals afterwards.

(Image credit: Pinterest)

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