The Ultimate Saree Guide: 20 Types Of Sarees Across The Country & 60 You Can Buy

Who hasn't heard of the Banarasi silk saree? They usually have Mughal motifs and are a great option for weddings, not just for guests but also for the brides. Typically, these come in intricately woven fine silk with gold and silver brocade work. They can have floral motifs, jhalars (upright leaves) and usually come with a broad border. A good handloom Banarasi saree can take anywhere from 10 days to a month to weave, and is generally really heavy. If you're looking for an ultra-real look, opt for a Banarasi brocade saree, which is characterised by its even finer weave. Now you can also find the Banarasi-style motif in georgette, organza, cotton or linen sarees, but if you really want a Banarasi saree, it has to be silk.

Care Instructions: Dry clean them after every wear, and place them in a protective cover with butter paper placed in between the folds. Keep them carefully stored in your wardrobe, not in a box bed.

Occasions to wear: Festivals, Weddings, Religious Ceremonies, Award Functions

Pro Tip: To know more about the different types of Banarasi sarees, check out this list.

Flowy, colourful and just so effortlessly beautiful—Leheriya is ideal for a day event or everyday wear. They can be a little tedious to carry due to the fabric's texture, but if you pin them up just right, they become the best summer-wear option.

Patronised by Rajput rulers, Leheriya is unique to Rajasthan, mostly Jaipur and Jodhpur. It's a tie-dye resist method that creates wave-like patterns that have been likened to the visual of winds blowing through the sand in the desert. The pattern can be made on any material, such as cotton, silk or a blend, but georgette Leheriya sarees are the best. They come in vivid bright colours, perfect for an evening or a day event. However, they can be a bit fragile and super lightweight. 

Care Instructions: Hand wash leheriya sarees in cold water with mild detergent. To prevent colour bleeding, do not soak the saree for long. Rinse the saree thoroughly and dry it in the shade, away from direct sunlight.

Occasions to wear: Casual outings, Weddings, Religious Ceremonies, Work Functions

Chikankari is classic, evergreen and never goes out of style. And when you bring sarees to that mix? Take our money NOW! The intricate design, the summery colours and just the sheer versatility—depending on the intricacy of the embroidery and the material of the saree, this is one of the most gorgeous, simple saree varieties out there. You can wear them to the office, for a date, or to a day event. If you've been invited to a wedding and are looking for a lightweight outfit option, pick a chikankari saree and you're sorted. Unique to Lucknow, this white-thread hand embroidery fabric can be done on a variety of materials, including muslin, chiffon, silk and organza.

Care Instructions: They need care, and you should follow the same steps as the ones for Banarasi silk for storing these pieces. 

Occasions to wear: Brunch or Lunch Dates, Festivals, Religious Ceremonies, Award Functions, Evening Parties

The Sambalpuri fabric is woven with an age-old technique called bandha (ikat) and usually has traditional motifs like shankha (shell), phula (flower) and chakra (wheel) and the oldest and most iconic colour combinations are black and red, as an ode to Lord Jagannath. The painstaking process of making this fabric involves tie-dyeing the threads before they are woven. You can find these types of sarees usually on materials like stiff cotton or raw silk. We suggest sticking to those since they are the most long-lasting and won't be machine printed. You can now find more modern designs, such as geometric patterns and beautiful temple art, on the intricately woven borders, too. 

Care Instructions: Like the Banarasi saree, you should only dry clean this saree variety and store it in a dry place inside a protective wrap. 

Occasions to wear: Weddings, Family Functions, Evening Parties, Festivals

LBB Tip: Wear comfortable footwear like flats or juttis, especially if you need to stand for a long time.

This is one of those types of sarees that is made by a centuries-old craft that is called Kantha. It is a form of embroidery that originated in the Bengal region and comprises patchwork stitching of rags. A people's craft, this art form was not patronised by the kings but passed down from one generation of rural women to the next. Kantha sarees can take anywhere from a couple of weeks to a couple of months to make and are usually done on raw silk, tussar silk, or pure cotton. Traditionally, you'd find them with intricately woven geometric patterns. However, newer styles come with floral prints and stitches that depict rural life. While you can have lighter options too, these types of sarees are usually heavy and should be pinned up properly.

Care Instructions: To store the sari, fold it neatly and keep it in a breathable cotton bag to protect it from dust and moisture.

Occasions to wear: Weddings, Festivals, Cultural Events, Lunch Date, Evening Parties

LBB-Tip: Don't forget that little piece of paper in the safety pin to protect the beautiful thread work. 

Assam silk is denoted by its three types: Muga, white pat and warm eri. The most commonly found and famous saree varieties from the region are the Muga silk saree, especially as the mekhela chador. It is a two-piece saree that comes in the form of a skirt that you pleat and tuck, while the pallu is tucked into the waist. You'll find them in off-white or cream colours with intricate weaves. Muga silk can be hand-washed (although we would suggest not taking a risk and getting it dry cleaned), and gets more lustrous after every wash—can you believe that? Now, this traditional Assam stitch can also be found on materials like cotton and linen that look equally beautiful.

Care Instructions: Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals because they can damage the fabric. Also, try not to wear heavy jewellery as it can snag or pull on the silk.

Occasions to wear: Festivals, Weddings, Family Functions, Evening Parties

LBB Tip: Instead of heavy accessories, opt for minimal jewellery such as gold or silver pieces to complement the richness of the fabric.

Originating in Tamil Nadu, the Kanjeevaram or Kanchipuram saree varieties are now famous all over and are one of the top choices for Indian brides everywhere. Made of pure mulberry silk, it usually takes three weavers to work on one saree, and the border and body are woven separately and then stitched together. The borders are generally done in striking gold and are wide; the patterns and motifs on these sarees are usually inspired by the temple life of South India or nature, such as floral patterns or leaves. These types of sarees are really heavy sarees and are reserved for special occasions, and can vary widely in price depending on the intricacy of the work. 

Care Instructions: It's best to dry clean Kanjeevaram sarees instead of hand washing them to prevent colour bleeding or damage. You can also gently spot clean it with a damp cloth and mild detergent, but avoid scrubbing the fabric.

Occasions to wear: Weddings, Festivals, Evening Parties, Religious Ceremonies, Award Functions

LBB Tip: Try to experiment with how you drape the pallu; it can be a more dramatic look or a pleated style for a refined vibe.

Who hasn't been to an Onam sadhya and been absolutely mesmerised by this classic white and gold piece? The Kasavu saree is a saree variety native to Kerala, characterised by its traditional style of gold or silver weave on silk or cotton. Popularly known as the Kerala saree, these originally come in a two-piece set wherein the piece that goes around your lower half is called the mundu and the upper is called a veshti. However, the saree is now available as a single piece, as many women prefer it. Although the classic gold border is the best to own, there are modern options available that pair gold with bright colours such as red and green, too, which you can check out.

Care Instructions: Avoid machine washing your saree and go for hand washing using cold water and a mild detergent.

Occasions to wear: Festivals, Weddings, Evening Parties, Formal Gatherings

LBB Tip: Choose minimal accessories and jewellery to let your saree do all the talking.

The Narayanpet saree originates from a region in Andhra Pradesh with the same name and is characterised by its bright, colourful, and fun-to-style nature. The area has a rich history of handloom, and this particular fabric is made using the interlocked-waft technique, with often eight sarees being woven together. The contrasting colours, the thin gold border, and the striking prints on the pallu are what set this fabric apart. They also often come in two-tone fabric, and the colour of the dye is long-lasting. Commonly done on cotton-silk blends or pure light silk, these saree varieties can be worn all year round and are often quite affordable. 

Care Instructions: Instead of hanging, fold the saree flat to prevent stretching and creasing.

Occasions to wear: Evening Parties, Weddings, Religious Ceremonies, Festivals, Award Functions

LBB Tip: Choose a contrasting or embroidered blouse to enhance the overall allure of the saree.

Originating in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, Paithani sarees are crafted from silk and zari and can be either single-coloured or kaleidoscopic. These sarees typically feature small round designs or motifs of peacocks, flowers, and coconuts, all heavily inspired by the Ajanta caves. They usually have a broad border adorned with motifs of muniya (a type of parrot). Originally made from cotton, Paithani sarees are now predominantly crafted from silk, giving them a lustrous sheen due to the generous use of gold weave. The creation of a single saree can take anywhere from six months to two years. When properly cared for, Paithani sarees become legacy pieces.

Care Instructions: Allow the fabric to breathe after each use by spreading it out in a dry place and avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight. However, do not store them in dark, dingy places, such as a box bed.

Occasions to wear: Brunch or Lunch Date, Evening Parties, Festivals, Religious Ceremonies

LBB Tip: For a more stylish look, consider pinning the pallu at the shoulder with an elegant brooch.

The Chanderi fabric, originating from Madhya Pradesh, has a glossy, lightweight, and sheer texture. They are usually of gauzy cotton material or a blend of cotton and silk and have a gold or silver border. They traditionally come with motifs like swans, fruits, celestial bodies and gold coins. While originally woven in pastel hues, they now come in bright and vibrant colours like reds and pinks (and trust me, they look fabulous!). Depending on the look, these sarees are great for evening and day events and have you looking regal every time you drape them. 

Care Instructions: Chanderi sarees are best preserved through dry cleaning and by storing them in cotton covers.

Occasions to wear: Evening Parties, Weddings, Festivals, Award Functions, Family Gatherings

Vibrant, intricate and evergreen—from the Patan region of Gujarat, the patola saree is made by first dyeing the fabric with natural colours and then weaving it together to form intricate patterns. Usually found in silk, these sarees are collector's pieces because of the heavily detailed work and are often worn on special occasions such as weddings. The motifs usually have flowers, elephants, parrots, dancing figures, geometric patterns and more. These painstakingly woven pieces are priceless heirlooms, but unfortunately, this art form is dying. Most options given here are machine printed, since original Patola sarees can cost anywhere upwards of a lakh. 

Care Instructions: Neatly fold the saree to store it properly. Use a breathable cotton cover to prevent wear and tear.

Occasions to wear: Festivals, Weddings, Family Gatherings, Evening Parties

LBB Tip: Complement your patola saree with a blouse featuring embellishments to add to the charm of your outfit.

One saree that truly shines the most among others is the Bandhani saree. Originating in Gujarat, the Bandhani saree is one of the finest varieties in India. The term Bandhani translates to tie-dye in Hindi, as it is made by tying intricate knots by hand. It comes in different fabrics such as cotton, silk and chiffon. You must add this type of saree to your wardrobe for an elegant appearance.

Care Instructions: Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals to wash the fabric as it can cause damage and colour bleeding.

Occasions to wear: Weddings, Festivals, Religious Ceremonies, Family Gatherings

LBB Tip: Try experimenting with different blouse necklines like off-shoulder, boat neck or halter, to add a contemporary touch.

Introduced to the world by the weavers of Nauvar, Maharashtra, the Nauvari saree means 'nine-yard' in the Marathi language. The saree is woven using pure silk and cotton thread in a fine weave, embellished with zari, lace or mirror work. The best part about this saree is that the weavers create the Nauvari saree in different fabrics and patterns each year to keep up with the modern times. 

Care Instructions: Like any other saree, keep the Nauvari saree in cotton covers to avoid spoilage caused by dust and moisture.

Occasions to wear: Festivals, Weddings, Family Gatherings

LBB Tip: Wear comfortable yet elegant footwear, like kolhapuris or traditional sandals, which match the saree's aesthetic.

One of the traditional sarees of Punjab, it is a handwoven saree featuring gold and silver thread embroidery. Phulkari saree gets its name from the pattern that is crafted on the saree border, usually including flowers, leaves, creepers, vines and other natural motifs. These days, phulkari is done on all sorts of fabrics, from lightweight cotton to chiffon. It is the perfect saree for the festive season.

Care Instructions: You must store the saree in a cool, dry place, such as a cotton or muslin bag, to prevent spoilage.

Occasions to wear: Weddings, Festivals, Cultural Events, Parties

LBB Tip: Try draping the saree in front of a mirror to make sure that the embroidery is displayed properly

Originating from the Jogulamba Gadwal district of Telangana, the Gadwal saree comes in various styles and designs. While cotton is used for the body of the saree, the pallu is made of silk fabric, making it known as a Sico saree. You can wear it with a matching blouse, a choli or a bodice with a petticoat at the bottom. Usually, the white-toned ones are worn for weddings, as they symbolise the purity and freshness of life.

Care Instructions: Keep the saree away from sharp objects that can easily snag the fabric, like safety pins. We suggest using the proper saree pins to be on the safe side. 

Occasions to wear: Weddings, Festivals, Cultural Events, Religious Ceremonies

As the name suggests, these traditional sarees have been manufactured in Kota, Rajasthan for over 250 years now. Made of pure cotton and silk, they feature square-like patterns called khats. It uses a special hand-weaving technique that makes the fabric super airy and light, making it ideal for the summer season. If you're looking for something sophisticated yet comfortable, this should be your saree of choice.

Care Instructions: Preferably hand wash in cold water using a mild detergent instead of machine washing it. When drying it, keep it away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.

Occasions to wear: Casual Gatherings, Office Wear, Day Events, Festivals, Weddings

LBB Tip: If you want to keep the saree in place, you can use safety pins at the waist and shoulder

Originating from Bishnupur region of West Bengal, it's basically storytelling in a fabric form. Known for their intricate pallus, these handwoven beauties usually depict scenes straight out of Ramayana, Mahabharata and other mythological tales. Think human figures, floral vines and temple motifs. So, it feels like you're wearing a piece of history. Traditional colours include maroon, purple, and green, but they can be found in other colours too.

Care Instructions: Dry clean them to preserve the fabric and vibrant colours. If you choose to wash them at home, use cold water and mild detergent and dry them in a shaded area, not direct sunlight.

Occasions to wear: Weddings, festivals, cultural events, and intimate gatherings

Also known as 'Sonepuri' saree, the Bomkai fabric is a handloom treasure from Odisha. It's gaining a lot of popularity in recent times and showcases a blend of tribal charm and intricate craftsmanship. The borders and pallus are the highlight here with nature-inspired or mythological motifs woven in contrasting colours. From silk to cotton, Bomkai saree is made on different fabrics for different occasions. It's labour intensive and often take weeks to prepare but the result is worth it. Traditional colours include red, black and yellow hues.

Care instructions: Dry Clean. Store in a cool, dry place and away from direct sunlight. Don't put perfumes on them to prevent damage.

Occasion to wear: Weddings, festivals, and other celebratory events, as well as for everyday casual wear

If Odisha fabrics fascinate you as much as they do us, you'll love Dongria Saree. A true representation of Odisha tribal artistry, it's a staple for Dongria Kondh tribe—one of India’s indigenous communities. Their characteristic feature is their geometric pattern like striking triangular patterns. The colour palette is bold with deep reds, blacks, greens and yellows dominating the scene. They're often made in cotton and the main designing happens on the pallu of the saree. It's got a very earthy appeal, that makes it really special.

Care instructions: Dry clean or wash with cold water. Add vinegar to preserve brightness and vibrancy of the saree.

Occasion to wear: casual gatherings to special events like weddings or festivals