One variety of saree that tops the list when we say light-weight rich looking saree is a Chanderi. Chanderi sarees get their name from Chanderi, Madhya Pradesh, their origin. It is said that the culture of weaving fabrics in Chanderi began as early as the 7th Century. However, in the 13th Century, the tradition of Chanderi sarees started in this place, thanks to the skill of the Koshti weavers, who migrated to this area from Jhansi. During the Mughal rule, the fame of these sarees reached its peak and received royal patronage. If you wish to know what is Chanderi saree is and want to explore more interesting facts and some unique Chanderi Saree designs that top our list.
Importance Of Chanderi Sarees:
Chanderi Sarees were the favoured type of fabrics by the Royal women, especially during the Mughal era. They are known for their lightweight, airy, transparent fabrics, making wearing sarees comfortable even during extreme heat conditions. The original Chanderi sarees were embroidered with silver and gold threads to render an opulent look to the wearer. It is even told that Aurangzeb, the famous Mughal ruler, preferred Chanderi cloth to weave the Khilat, a ceremonial robe used to honour people.
Features Of Chanderi Sarees:
These sarees, which were once the royal favourites, come with the following characteristic features:
- They are extremely lightweight and transparent fabrics.
- Due to the gold and silver zari in the weave, Chanderi sarees look rich and elegant.
- They are quite airy and are perfect for hot Indian weather.
- Chanderi sarees come in different fabrics like silk, cotton, and cotton silk.
- These sarees are best for everyday and occasional wear, depending on the artwork of the saree.
Suitable Occasion For Chanderi Sarees:
Chanderi Sarees are suitable for both casual and ceremonies based on the type of fabric and the richness of the weave. For daily or work wear, one can opt for cotton-based Chanderi sarees, which render an elegant look and offer comfort. For Occasional wear like pujas, weddings and other important events, you can pick a regal looking Saree woven with silk or cotton silk for a shimmering effect.
Preferred Body Shape For Chanderi Sarees:
Chanderi sarees are suitable for women of all body types. Whether you are a slim lady or a woman with a heavy waistline, Chanderi sarees are sure to complement your beauty and make you look great. The extremely soft fabric drapes like a dream on your body and gives you a comfortable fit. Choosing a pattern that best suits your body can also help elevate your beauty.
20 Stunning Chanderi Sarees For Handloom Lovers:
The top 20 styles of chanderi sarees with images are the main key attraction in this article.
1. Black Chanderi Saree:
This stunning black beauty is all set to make you sizzle at the party. The bold black body of the saree is complemented with a red zari border, which brightens the whole look. This extremely lightweight Chanderi cotton saree is sure to make heads turn wherever you go. It is best paired with a contrasting blouse to elevate the saree’s beauty.
- Design: Black and Red Chanderi Cotton Saree With Golden Zari
- Material: Chanderi Cotton
- Suitable Occasion: Ceremonial and Ethnic Wear
- Suggested Body Type: All Body Types
2. Chanderi Pattu Sarees:
If you are looking for a regal looking silk saree for weddings, this orange and red Chanderi pattu saree is an ideal pick, especially for summer events. The airy feeling of this saree makes you stay comfortable even in the extreme weather without having to compromise on your style. Pair it with a golden blouse and matching gold jewellery to look like a million bucks.
- Design: Red and Orange Chanderi Pattu Saree
- Material: Chanderi Silk
- Suitable Occasion: Weddings
- Suggested Body Type: All Body Types
3. Indigo Chanderi Sarees:
This Dabu printed Indigo saree is the hottest pick this season. Women of all ages wear stunning printed saree to look stylish and elegant. It is best paired with a simple white cotton blouse and German silver accessories for a perfect look. This extremely soft saree is perfect for work and ethnic wear.
- Design: White and Indigo Dabu Printed Chanderi Saree
- Material: Chanderi Silk
- Suitable Occasion: Ethnic Wear
- Suggested Body Type: All Body Types
4. Chanderi Banarasi Saree:
This saree is one of the most exquisite weaves in the Chanderi variety. The Banarasi border inspired by the rich mandala designs and the all-over cheques on the body makes this a delight to wear. You can wear this saree with a matching blouse and rich Nakshi jewellery to shine like a star in the event!
- Design: Maroon and Red Chanderi Banarasi Saree
- Material: Chanderi Silk
- Suitable Occasion: Weddings and Ethnic Wear
- Suggested Body Type: All Body Types
5. Chanderi Kalamkari Sarees:
This rich Kalamkari hand printed saree is a treat to sore eyes. The saree is printed all over with huge motifs of traditional Kalamkari block prints inspired by the beauty of nature. The border is also adorned with peacock motifs to elevate the saree’s beauty. It comes with a matching Kalamkari blouse to complement the whole look.
- Design: Maroon Chanderi Kalamkari Saree
- Material: Chanderi Cotton
- Suitable Occasion: Weddings and Ethnic Wear
- Suggested Body Type: All Body Types
6. Green And White Chanderi Silk Saree With Yellow Border:
The texture of this saree is silky. Green and yellow seem a perfect combination of colours. One half of the saree is a white designed part, and the other half is a green part with a yellow border wrapped over your body. This silk chanderi saree makes you look colourful.
- Design: White Printed Chanderi Saree With Green Pallu
- Material: Chanderi Cotton
- Suitable Occasion: Casual, Everyday wear
- Suggested Body Type: All Body Types
7. Red Silk Cotton Chanderi Saree With Golden Border:
This red saree is a traditional look with simple red portions and a plain golden border run all over this piece of cotton chanderi. A touch up is given to this saree by providing an intricate golden pallu that makes it even more vibrant. You can pair it up with a golden blouse.
- Design: Red Chanderi Silk Saree With Golden Zari Pallu
- Material: Chanderi Silk
- Suitable Occasion: Weddings and Ceremonial Wear
- Suggested Body Type: All Body Types
8. Orange And White Chanderi Silk Designer Saree:
Half and half chanderi silk designed saree having mainly two colours make it magnificent. The white printed portion and simple orange with colourful stripes along the border lining. To give a contrasting view, it is paired up with a blue blouse with an orange lining.
- Design: Orange and Blue Printed Chanderi Half and Half Saree
- Material: Chanderi Silk
- Suitable Occasion: Casual, Ethnic Wear
- Suggested Body Type: All Body Types
9. Pink Chanderi Pattu Saree:
This pink pattu or silk saree provides a shiny texture and is also soft. On one side of the border and the other side, it has a violet hue. All over the saree, floral designs are made. This gives a new outlook to this chanderi saree.
- Design: Pink and Purple Chanderi Pattu Saree
- Material: Chanderi Silk
- Suitable Occasion: Weddings and Ceremonial Wear
- Suggested Body Type: All Body Types
10. Red And Cream Designer Chanderi Silk Saree:
Designer chanderi saree adds a new feature to the conventional chanderi saree. This saree looks brilliant to wear on special occasions. The red half has golden motifs throughout. The cream-coloured pallu is draped over your body, giving a contrasting parameter to this saree with an intricately designed border.
- Design: White and Red Printed Chanderi Saree
- Material: Silk
- Suitable Occasion: Weddings and Ceremonial Wear
- Suggested Body Type: All Body Types
11. Magenta And White Chanderi Silk Saree:
Here this magenta, white chanderi silk is pleated nicely to give a pleasing look to the eye. The white half of this saree is designed with black, and the other half is a simple magenta silky texture with a green wider border. The saree is contrasted with a green coloured blouse which makes you look perfect.
- Design: Printed White Chanderi Saree With Magenta Pallu
- Material: Cotton and Silk
- Suitable Occasion: Casual wear
- Suggested Body Type: All Body Types
12. Peach And Silver Cotton Silk Chanderi Saree:
Cotton silk is another variety of this chanderi saree. Peach is blended with a silver hue. Peach is this saree’s base colour, which is mismatched with silver works. This saree goes well with all ages. These peach coloured outfits are the recent trends, so you can try this piece of chanderi saree if you love this hue.
- Design: Baby Pink Chanderi Cotton Silk Saree With Silver Zari
- Material: Cotton Silk
- Suitable Occasion: Occasional Wear
- Suggested Body Type: All Body Types
13. Deep Blue Cotton Silk Chanderi Saree:
Blue is the main characteristic feature of this chanderi saree. Intricate designs are made all over this piece of cotton silk chanderi saree with a golden border. If you like to opt for intricate designs with multi-coloured effects, you can surely go for this fashionable outlook. You also look radiant in this blue shade too.
- Design: Blue Printed Chanderi Cotton Silk Saree
- Material: Cotton Silk
- Suitable Occasion: Occasional Wear
- Suggested Body Type: All Body Types
14. Red And Beige Chanderi Saree With Golden Embroidery:
This is a designer saree with golden embroidery along the border. The embroidery work is done in circular and wavy patterns, which look different. The beige-coloured pallu has a silky outlook with a translucent effect. This is contrasted with red, orange and blue portions. The widely spread red portion has intricate blue coloured works done in regular patterns.
- Design: Maroon Chanderi Printed Saree With Cream Pallu
- Material: Cotton Silk
- Suitable Occasion: Occasional Wear
- Suggested Body Type: All Body Types
15. Pure Off-White Plain Chanderi Silk Saree:
The simplicity of this chanderi saree is an attractive feature of this outfit. Women of all ages can wear this. This trendy saree has a golden effect on the off-white base, which looks magnificent blended with elegance.
- Design: Off-White Plain Chanderi Silk Saree
- Material: Cotton Silk
- Suitable Occasion: Occasional Wear
- Suggested Body Type: All Body Types
- See More: Nauvari Saree Images
16. Pink And Peach Color Net Chanderi Saree With Patch Works:
The peach half of this chanderi saree is blended with pink coloured netted pallu. Try to mix and match your outlook by wearing a blue coloured designer blouse to enhance your outlook. It provides a multi-coloured effect to this saree. The transparent netted pallu enhance the beauty of your designer blouse. Patch works are done in peach-coloured portions.
- Design: Peach Chanderi Saree With Purple Georgette Pallu
- Material: Chanderi Cotton Silk and Georgette
- Suitable Occasion: Occasional Wear
- Suggested Body Type: All Body Types
17. Red Printed Chanderi Checks Saree:
This saree is just simple in its looks yet looks trendy in this red piece. These patterns of printed chanderi sarees are mostly used by the present generation ladies. It has multi-coloured printed block designs in the lower half. Triangular block prints and strips are the main characteristic feature of this chanderi saree.
- Design: Red Chanderi Cotton Saree With Multi-Colored Pleats
- Material: Chanderi Cotton
- Suitable Occasion: Ethnic Wear
- Suggested Body Type: All Body Types
18. Lemon Yellow Colored Designer Cotton-Silk Party Wear Chanderi Saree:
You can opt for this party wear chanderi saree for any special occasion. This yellow-based chanderi saree has intricate designs in the main part, leaving the pallu with few designed works. The border work is highly fascinating than the simple lemon-yellow base. It has alluring golden works on the pink-coloured border.
- Design: Lemon Yellow Chanderi Work Saree
- Material: Chanderi Cotton Silk
- Suitable Occasion: Ethnic Wear
- Suggested Body Type: All Body Types
19. Cream Chanderi Cotton Saree With Golden And Yellow Border:
A simple cream coloured chanderi saree is apt for any religious event. Nowadays, this type of saree is preferred to have a traditional effect. A contrasting blouse is paired with this piece of off-white golden and yellow bordered saree.
- Design: Off-White Chanderi Cotton Silk Saree With Silver Zari
- Material: Chanderi Cotton Silk
- Suitable Occasion: Ethnic Wear
- Suggested Body Type: All Body Types
See More: Sarees In Pothys
20. Cream And Orange Light Weight Chanderi Saree:
The lower portion of this saree provides an orange hue to the cream-coloured upper half. In between, it has floral designs. This perfectly goes with this chanderi saree. Black outer lining defines this saree, and intricate golden works on the cream-coloured portions. A black blouse highlights your beauty.
- Design: Cream and Brown Printed Chanderi Cotton Saree
- Material: Chanderi Cotton
- Suitable Occasion: Ethnic Wear
- Suggested Body Type: All Body Types
How To Identify Pure Chanderi Sarees?
With the market flooded with different types of sarees claiming to be Chanderi variety, it’s difficult to identify fake ones from genuine ones. However, the following tips can help you get your money’s worth:
- Pure Chanderi Sarees come with a nice metallic shine attained due to the presence of silver and gold threads.
- Motifs on the Chanderi sarees come with copper, gold and silver zari weaves.
- The common motifs are nature-inspired like flowers, peacocks, creepers, lotuses etc.,
- Pure Chanderi Sarees are transparent and sheer fabrics, unlike the ones we find in the market.
How To Style Chanderi Sarees?
The ideal way to style Chanderi sarees is to pair them with matching or contrasting coloured blouses, depending on the occasion.
- As they are see-through fabrics, you can opt for slightly thicker fabrics for blouses.
- Printed blouses work well for plain chanderi varieties.
- Depending on the thread used for weaving, you can opt for gold, silver or even bronze jewellery for a unique look.
- These sarees are best draped in multiple-pleated pallu to ensure good coverage of your body.
If you are a handloom saree lover, Chanderi sarees, no doubt, will top the list. They are gorgeous drapes that can make anyone look radiant with their beauty. However, it is a little disturbing to see how this age-old art is slowly disappearing due to artificial fabrics’ dominance. These may be light on the pocket, but not on the body! If you truly respect the skill and effort of your local artisans, always ask for a simple Chanderi saree. What are you waiting for? Choose your favourite pick and steal the show!
