The City of Banaras or Varanasi is one of the world’s oldest cities. Known as one of the best pilgrimage destinations for Hindus, this ancient city is also the home to the iconic Banarasi sarees. Banarasi sarees are the finest among silk sarees, woven with intricate motifs and embroidery. These lovely brocades are known to have started in the 17th century owing to the huge migration of Gujarati Weavers to Banaras. In the 18th and 19th centuries, they gathered a lot of fame and publicity for their richness. Banarasi sarees speak of grandeur and elegance and are on top of the shopping list of every Indian bride. These heavy sarees are traditionally woven with premium quality Silk and golden Zari to make them look opulent. This article will explore some of the traditional Banarasi sarees with contemporary versions to help you buy better!

Importance Of Banarasi Sarees:

Banarasi Saris are traditionally woven on a handloom using nothing but the finest quality of Silk and Zari. Making one Banarasi saree takes about 18 days to 6 months, depending on the pattern. It is no mean task to make these gorgeous sarees, priced heavy. However, a stunning saree takes a special place in your wardrobe and lasts forever to be passed on to a family heirloom. Such is the speciality of these sarees.

Features of Banarasi Sarees:

If you are travelling in the streets of Banaras, you are very likely to find a beautiful variety of Banarasi Sarees which display these features:

  • The Mughul era inspires Banarasi sarees, clearly evident from the intricate floral motifs of the Bel leaf and the Kalga.
  • They have rich borders, which are predominantly made of golden Zari.
  • The outer border is usually woven with leaves in an upright position called Jhallar.
  • You can also notice all over small motifs, which make for the details of the saree.
  • Banarasi sarees are woven to display a grand metallic effect on the Pallu and the borders.

Preferred Age Group and Body Type For Banarasi sarees:

Banarasi saris are suitable for all age groups because they add femininity and grace. However, not all designs suit everyone. The heavy metallic finish sarees made in hues like red are suitable only for young women, especially the slim and slightly curvy brides. Middle-aged bulky women can go for floral designs in subtle colours and sober finishes. Pastels are suitable for all ages, and one can add more richness by accessorising heavy jewellery.

Suitable Occasions For Banarasi Sarees:

Banarasi Sarees are best suited for weddings, festivals and ethnic wear. Depending on the occasion, you can opt for a suitable design ranging from heavy to subtle motifs. The fabric also plays an important role in deciding its suitability for the occasion. Banarasi Wedding Sarees are made with Silk material for a grand look, while georgette and chiffon are suitable for ethnic wear and festivals.

Traditional Banarasi Sarees Trending This Season:

Here are some of the best Banarasi sarees sporting alluring designs and attractive colours.

1. Banarasi Silk Saree:

Check out this unique Banarasi Silk Saree made with Pastel Pink and Silver. This contemporary design is created keeping in mind the market’s current trends. This regal looking saree will take a special place in your wardrobe. It is created with all-over cream and silver thread motifs s motifs with special silk tassels at the end of the saree. If you are looking for the perfect wedding Banarasi Handloom sarees, you will not miss this design.

  • Design: Pastel Pink and Cream Banarasi Silk Sari
  • Fabric: Pure Silk
  • Preferred Occasion: Bridal Wear, Festive Wear
  • Suitable Body Shape: Suitable For all Women

2. Golden Banarasi Saree:

If you want to try something unique, this golden and Ochre Banarasi sari is made just for you. The antique Banarasi saree style is in huge demand and is richly made with intricate geometrical motifs inspired by Mughal architecture. The golden colour of the saree complements well the hints of colour across the saree. The Pallu is deliberately kept simple not to overdo the design.

  • Design: Golden and Ochre Banarasi Silk Saree
  • Fabric: Pure Silk
  • Preferred Occasion: Bridal Wear, Festive Wear
  • Suitable Body Shape: Suitable For all Women

3. Banarasi Georgette Saree:

For women who wish to add a touch of colour to their wardrobes, this Turquoise and peach coloured saree is a refreshing change from reds and maroons. The saree is intricately woven with silver floral motifs all over the body and ornate designs on the pallu and the border. The combination of these two colours works wonderfully to make you look stunning.

  • Design: Turquoise and Peach Banarasi Saree With Silver Motifs
  • Fabric: Pure Silk
  • Preferred Occasion: Bridal Wear, Festive Wear
  • Suitable Body Shape: Suitable For all Women

4. White Banarasi Saree:

This white and golden Banarasi saree speaks of style and class! The saree is made with premium quality georgette and is intricately woven with golden leaf motifs all over the design. The highlight is the Pallu and the border, displaying a beautiful array of flowers. You can style it well by opting for simple golden accessories and a nice fitted blouse.

  • Design: White and Golden Floral Banarasi Saree
  • Fabric: Georgette
  • Preferred Occasion: Bridal Wear, Festive Wear
  • Suitable Body Shape: Suitable For all Women

5. Chiffon Banarasi Saree:

Check out this beautiful chiffon saree in green and gold. The saree is exquisitely done with golden motifs and a rich pallu to complement the design. It comes with a matching blouse and a golden weave on the sleeves. This saree can be worn for special occasions to grab some eyeballs. Wear it with some emerald based jewellery to stand apart from the crowd.

  • Design: Green Chiffon Banarasi Saree with Golden Motifs
  • Fabric: Chiffon
  • Preferred Occasion: Bridal Wear, Festive Wear
  • Suitable Body Shape: Suitable For Curvy and Slim Women

6. Sky Blue Banarasi Saree:

This comes with a bright colour coming out of something light. The sky blue colour is light, and when you want to make it so eye-catching, you have the finest material for letting that colour be expressed properly. This saree comes with small and intricate designs done on the front portion of the saree and some traditional and authentic designs did the pallu portion. This is probably one of the best traditional ethnic pieces for Indian women that can be kept aside for special occasions. Because of all the right causes, this can be the best Banarasi saree of all time.

  • Design: Sky Blue Mango Motif Banarasi Saree
  • Fabric: Pure Silk
  • Preferred Occasion: Weddings and receptions
  • Suitable Body Shape: Suitable For All Women

7. The Yellow Banarasi Saree:

Here is a Banarasi saree that can be a sport with blue blouses. The edges of this saree are beautifully decorated with patterns that you probably haven’t seen before. The prime attraction of this saree lies in the yellow portion. You will see some small, almost transparent patterns if you look carefully.

  • Design: Yellow Golden Motif Saree With Black Border
  • Fabric: Georgette
  • Preferred Occasion: Ethnic Wear and Festivals
  • Suitable Body Shape: Suitable For Slim Women

8. Pink And Blue Banarasi Saree:

Here is a saree for all Indian women belonging to all age groups. The saree comes in more than one colour, which is one of the best attractive features of this saree. The design that this saree sport is more than beautiful, and it is something that almost all women out there will find impressive. The small patterns on the border are one of the best features, metallic colours displayed on the golden base. This saree can thus be one of the best Banarasi sarees of all time, sporting pure silk fabric.

  • Design: Pink and Blue Half and Half Banarasi Saree
  • Fabric: Georgette
  • Preferred Occasion: Ethnic Wear and Festivals
  • Suitable Body Shape: Suitable For Slim Women

9. The Black Banarasi Allure Saree:

Here is something that will blow your mind. Who knew that black saree could be so alluring as well. This saree comes with a handful of magic that has been put into the saree by the designer. Yes! This is a designer saree, and when you are carrying this on your body, you should be proud of yourself for being able to sport something different from what others will be wearing. The unique and, rather, small and slick floral patterns towards the border portion of this saree will impress people in the first place. Here is a saree suitable for women who want to sport a banarasi saree on a special occasion.

  • Design: Black Self Design Banarasi Saree With Embroidered Border
  • Fabric: Georgette
  • Preferred Occasion: Ethnic Wear, Receptions, Festivals
  • Suitable Body Shape: Suitable For Slim and Curvy Women

10. The Red Saree Banarasi:

Here is a beautiful red coloured Banarasi saree suitable for all women. The saree will go hand in hand with a golden coloured blouse. It will look great with a green colour blouse as well. A leaf green colour or a lighter one like the one displayed in this picture will impress people in the first place. And women will also be amazed by how it will make them look.

  • Design: Red and Off-White Half and Half Banarasi Saree
  • Fabric: Georgette
  • Preferred Occasion: Ethnic Wear, Festive wear
  • Suitable Body Shape: Suitable For Slim and Curvy Women

11. Red Pallu Floral Pattern Banarasi Saree:

Here is a banarasi saree with a floral pattern on the pallu portion. This saree comes with an alluring traditional pattern displayed on a modern-designer material. This mixture of old school with new school looks works great for this saree, and this will surely make one look in their best self.

  • Design: Black and red Lehenga Style Fusion Banarasi Saree
  • Fabric: Georgette With Golden Zari
  • Preferred Occasion: Ethnic Wear
  • Suitable Body Shape: Suitable For all Women

See More: Uppada Pattu Sarees

12. Red Designer Banarasi Saree:

This saree sports the old school or the traditional pattern done on the body. The pattern is so amazing that almost everyone will be impressed by how it looks. The designer pattern done on the pallu is one of the best features of this saree, making other women interested in this saree. If you are looking for something new this season, this saree will be suitable.

  • Design: Red Traditional Banarasi Saree With Violet Pallu
  • Fabric: Silk
  • Preferred Occasion: Weddings, Ethnic Wear
  • Suitable Body Shape: Suitable For all Women

13. The Beige Flora Art Banarasi Saree:

Here is another beautiful saree that sports a beige colour and a floral pattern. The floral pattern makes the sarees look so beautiful in the first place. The pattern done on the pallu is again made with some application of the colour blue. The combination of the two colours makes this designer banarasi saree so special.

  • Design: Green and Blue Rich Banarasi Saree
  • Fabric: Silk
  • Preferred Occasion: Weddings, Ethnic Wear
  • Suitable Body Shape: Suitable For all Women

14. Green Toned Handloom Banarasi Saree:

This handloom saree sports the banarasi saree fashion and is something that everyone will love sporting on their body. The saree will go hand in hand with a light colour blouse. If you are going to sport something eye-catching, then the blue colour will be a good blouse colour that will go with this saree. It can be used as a wedding saree and be kept reserved for special occasions.

  • Design: Green Traditional Banarasi saree With Golden Border
  • Fabric: Silk
  • Preferred Occasion: Weddings, Ethnic Wear, Festivals
  • Suitable Body Shape: Suitable For all Women

15. Plain Banarasi Cotton Saree:

Here is something that can be a treat for the saree lover’s eyes. It is a designer saree and comes with very eye-catching patterns done on the front portion of the saree. There are also some cool patterns done on the pallu that impresses the viewers in the first place. The saree will go hand in hand with a similar colour blouse sported on the extreme borders of this saree. It can be used as a wedding saree, and it has got that king of impressive features attached to it, which tends to toe the attention of whoever takes a look at this designer saree.

  • Design: Green Cotton Banarasi Saree With Floral Design Motif On Pallu
  • Fabric: Cotton
  • Preferred Occasion: Weddings, Ethnic Wear, Festivals
  • Suitable Body Shape: Suitable For all Women

See More: Bangalore Silk Sarees

16. Red Dotted Banarasi Saree:

Here is the Banarasi saree that comes with red as the base colour. Over it, some alluring small delicate dotted designs are done using the golden colour. This saree will attract attention in the first place when you sport it at a wedding ceremony. It can be best displayed with a red blouse of the same shade as the saree. If you can carry a saree suitably, this can be the best makeover for you.

  • Design: Red and Beige Half and Half Style Banarasi Saree
  • Fabric: Georgette
  • Preferred Occasion: Weddings, Ethnic Wear, Festivals
  • Suitable Body Shape: Suitable For all Women

17. Magnificent Silk Banarasi Saree:

Here is yet another alluring red colour saree that comes with the finest silk material. The saree looks like a bridal saree, and yes, it can be worn by the brides at their wedding. It has got something that manages to steal all the looks. The best feature about this saree is the alluring design on the border portion using the golden colour.

  • Design: Red Traditional Banarasi saree With Golden Zari
  • Fabric: Silk
  • Preferred Occasion: Weddings, Ethnic Wear, Festivals
  • Suitable Body Shape: Suitable For Curvy Women

18. Silk And Synthetic Banarasi Saree:

This banarasi saree has been made using two colours. It will be fine for those women who want to sport something new in the sarees category. The saree can make any woman look like a diva, whoever wears it. Because of the traditional design done on the body, the saree has become so special that every Indian woman wants to wear it.

  • Design: Royal Maroon and Beige Banarasi Saree
  • Fabric: Georgette and Net
  • Preferred Occasion: Weddings, Ethnic Wear, Festivals
  • Suitable Body Shape: Suitable For Slim Women

See More: Surat Designer Sarees

19. Astonishingly Beautiful Net Banarasi Saree:

This banarasi saree has been carried by female celebrities before, and you can sport it. Don’t panic. Wear it casually, and it will automatically offer you that celeb look. The designer of this saree has applied some magic tricks while making this saree. Otherwise, one cannot just make such a unique looking saree with a traditional touch on the futuristic designer material.

  • Design: Red and Green Self Weave Banarasi Saree With Net Pallu
  • Fabric: Georgette and Net
  • Preferred Occasion: Weddings, Ethnic Wear, Festivals
  • Suitable Body Shape: Suitable For Slim Women

20. Elegant Banarasi Saree:

If you want to display a specific image and make your mark, this is the right thing for you. Just wear this saree confidently and let the alluring design’s banarasi material do the job. It is something that almost every woman wants to sport at least once in their life. So you can be sure of the fact that you are sporting something that probably a lot fewer people have access to.

  • Design: Grey Satin Banarasi Saree With Embroidered Border
  • Fabric: Satin
  • Preferred Occasion: Weddings, Ethnic Wear, Festivals
  • Suitable Body Shape: Suitable For Curvy Women

21. Unique Banarasi Saree:

It looks totally simple, but the saree comes with an inner allure which only die-hard saree lovers will understand. It will be new to our moms, but you can easily figure out the beauty of this saree and the reason behind the allure of this design if you look carefully. One will be able to carry this saree at certain places where this was primarily supposed to, such as special events, including weddings, receptions, parties, etc.

  • Design: Beige Lace Banarasi Saree With Green Embroidered Border
  • Fabric: Lace
  • Preferred Occasion: Weddings, Ethnic Wear, Festivals
  • Suitable Body Shape: Suitable For Slim and Curvy Women

22. Eye-Catching Beige Designer Saree:

Here is a beautiful beige saree that sports the banarasi material. The saree comes with some design work done on the upper border portion. You will be amazed by how the saree will make you look when you sport it effectively.

  • Design: Off-White Self Weave Banarasi Saree With Red and Golden Border
  • Fabric: Super Net
  • Preferred Occasion: Ethnic Wear, Festivals
  • Suitable Body Shape: Suitable For Slim and Curvy Women

23. Banarasi Synthetic Saree:

Here is a saree for comfort lovers. This saree sports synthetic material, and you will have to be extra careful when you are carrying this saree. Synthetic sarees are considered hard to carry, and they will be fine for those who want to look their best. The floral pattern done on this saree will impress people in the first place. It will make one look amazing when carried effectively with a decent-looking blouse.

  • Design: Maroon and Green Half and Half Saree With Floral Embroidery
  • Fabric: Georgette
  • Preferred Occasion: Ethnic Wear, Festivals
  • Suitable Body Shape: Suitable For Slim and Curvy Women

24. Cream Colored Banarasi Saree:

Here is an alluring saree with an eye-catching pink design done on the borders. What makes this look so beautiful is the combination of the saree and the blouse. It will work for you if you are sporting a pink coloured blouse. Then, you will look equally beautiful with this saree on you or even more beautiful. You never know your true potential.

  • Design: Cream Color Plain Banarasi Saree With Tri-Colored Border
  • Fabric: Faux Pas Silk
  • Preferred Occasion: Ethnic Wear, Festivals
  • Suitable Body Shape: Suitable For Slim and Curvy Women

25. Cream and Red Banarasi Half Saree:

This particular banarasi saree comes in two colours, gold and red. Somehow, these are two of the favourite colours of women. At least, there is no doubt that red is the favourite one. The cream is hard to maintain, but the combination works for most women, and it will work for you.

  • Design: Red and Gold Banarasi Saree With Cream Pallu
  • Fabric: Georgette
  • Preferred Occasion: Weddings, Ethnic Wear, Festivals
  • Suitable Body Shape: Suitable For Slim and Curvy Women

26. Zadosi Banarasi Saree:

This comes with all the heavy silk saree-like patterns done on it. The small patterns done on the pink base are probably one of the best things about this saree, which excited people in the first place.

  • Design: Royal Red Banarasi Saree With Golden Zari
  • Fabric: Pure Silk
  • Preferred Occasion: Weddings, Ethnic Wear
  • Suitable Body Shape: Suitable For all Women

27. Black Banarasi Saree:

Here is a black banarasi that women will want to sport all the seasons. It has gone that allure that persuades those who fall for it who are not really into sarees. The highlight of the saree is the opulent embroidery on the Pallu, which is a head-turner. Wear this to a party, and you will be the show stopper of the evening.

  • Design: Brown and Black Half and Half Banarasi Saree With Floral Motif Pallu
  • Fabric: Georgette
  • Preferred Occasion: Weddings, Ethnic Wear
  • Suitable Body Shape: Suitable For all Women

28. Black And Cream Banarasi Saree:

Here is a black Banarasi saree that comes with some cream coloured work done on it. You will be amazed by how this saree sports a different kind of shine on it instead of being so simple. One can sport this at casual dress code destinations and special events.

  • Design: Cream and Black Half and Half Style Saree With Polka Dots
  • Fabric: Satin and Georgette
  • Preferred Occasion: Weddings, Ethnic Wear
  • Suitable Body Shape: Suitable For all Women

29. Green Banarasi Saree:

Women won’t be able to take their eyes off this green banarasi masterpiece. It is a little less fancy than the previous ones on this list, but still, it is very attractive. This saree we ornately have woven with golden zari and self-coloured weave to create an unusually beautiful effect. It’s light on weight and is suitable even for regular occasions.

  • Design: Green and Golden Floral Weave Banarasi Saree
  • Fabric: Cotton and Silk Mix
  • Preferred Occasion: Ethnic Wear and Festivals
  • Suitable Body Shape: Suitable For all Women

30. Royal Red Banarasi Saree:

Last but not least, here is a red banarasi that is meant to impress. It will be fine for those who want to look their best in a saree. This saree is extremely regal and is made with the finest of silk. The design is specially customised for women who want to balance grandeur and elegance. Pair it with a rich antique choker necklace to look no less than the queen herself.

  • Design: Red Self Weave Banarasi Silk Saree
  • Fabric: Pure Silk
  • Preferred Occasion: Bridal Wear
  • Suitable Body Shape: Suitable For all Women

How To Style Banarasi Saree?

Banarasi Sarees are usually worn for traditional occasions and as ethnic wear. These simple tips can help you create that perfect look you have always desired:

  • Always Opt for a good quality fabric to create a rich look.
  • As Banarasi sarees are heavy in design, make sure your blouses are not over the top.
  • You can style it with a nice choker to even statement earrings to add a regal touch.
  • A round bindi works wonderfully with these sarees.

What Are The Suitable Blouses For Banarasi Sarees?

Banarasi Sarees are quite ornate and heavy. They are best paired with plain and solid colour blouses to keep the elegant factor on! If you have a half-half style saree, you can go for a rich brocade to complement the base design of the saree. Silk sarees are best paired with blouses made in pure silk or cotton silk. Elbow sleeved blouses are the most happening trend in the market.

We hope these sarees gave you some serious fashion goals. A lot of people associate Banarasi sarees with old school designs and bygone fashions. But, these modern designs have brought back the glory of the famous weave and restored its position in the market. Once made exclusively in green, red and gold, Banarasi Saree now comes in many colours, including the power pinks and blues to suit the millennials’ taste. So, if you are looking for a perfect wedding drape, what are you waiting for? Time to buy one of these timeless beauties!

Yashita Author

About Yashita

Yashita is a senior content writer in Fashion & Lifestyle. She works involved writing blog posts and articles on diverse topics. She developed a passion for content writing, made it her full-time career. She loves writing for the online media and specializes in fashion, lifestyle and travel-related content. Yashita loves to explore the new places, and the different flavours/foods and photography are hobbies.
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