Kantha work sarees derive their name from the word “Kantha”, which means stitch. Kantha is an embroidery technique that involves running the stitch throughout the saree. It is typically found in South Asian countries. Odisha and West Bengal are two states popular for their beautiful Kantha work sarees. Kantha Work Sarees Kolkata are. Must buy items. Traditionally used, Kantha makes quilts by placing layers of cloth and binding them together using the stitch technique. Besides plain stitches, Kantha’s work has beautiful flowers, animals, birds, and geometrical shapes. Due to the stitch, the saree tends to be slightly wrinkled. Check out this article for some of the best Kantha work saree designs.
History of Kantha Work Sarees:
Kantha’s work sarees have a long history that dates back to the pre-Vedic period. A saree believed to be from the early 1800s featured this work with black, blue and red threads removed from used sarees. In many parts of Bengal, stitching the Kantha embroidery is considered part of the local culture as women of all sections make their own Kantha work sarees, quilts, pillow covers etc.
Traditionally, the sarees were made by unravelling threads from used sarees, lending the design a lightly worn-out and muted appearance. New threads retain the shine and colour with time, making them commercially viable.
Types of Kantha Work Sarees:
Did you know that there are 7 different types of Kantha works? Yes! Depending on the shapes and the type of stitch used, Kantha works are classified into these 7 categories:
- Lep Kantha: Wavy, rippled patterns are created all over the fabric. Typically used in making quilts and blanket motifs.
- Sujani Kantha: Motifs are first sketched on the fabric and filled with intricate thread work.
- Baiton Kantha: Rows of colourful threads are stitched on the saree.
- Oaar Kantha: Decorative designs using thread work are stitched on the borders.
- Archilata Kantha: Big, bold and colourful patterns are made on fabric using different motifs.
- Thalia Kantha: This embroidery uses a lotus design with embroidered borders.
- Rumal Kantha: Used on tablecloths and handkerchiefs and features a lotus motif with borders.
Beautiful and New Designer Kantha Sarees With Pictures:
Read along to explore the 15 latest Kantha Work Sarees with detailed design and fabric information!
1. Kantha Work Silk Saree:
Check out this exquisite Kantha work silk saree which features a kaleidoscopic effect of colours. The pure brown silk saree is intricately woven with silk threads of orange, green, brown, blue etc., that give an embossed appearance. Patterns inspired by nature, like flowers, leaves and creepers, adorn this gorgeous drape. It is paired with a matching red blouse with Kantha work thread work borders.
- Design: Brown Kantha Silk Saree with Blouse
- Fabric: Art Silk
- Occasion: Social Gatherings, Festivals, Reception
- Body Type: Tall and broad-shouldered women
- Style Tip: Pair it with simple gold jewellery to let the outfit shine.
2. Tussar Kantha Stitch Saree:
If you are looking for a contemporary-style Kantha work saree, look at this beauty! The mustard yellow tussar Benarasi silk saree can brighten up even the dullest moods. Elaborate floral patterns are painstakingly stitched on the borders and the body to transform the entire look of the saree. The unique colour combo and the glossy fabric add versatility to this drape, translating well into day and evening wear.
- Design: Mustard Yellow Coloured Kantha Embroidered Tussar Banarasi Silk Saree
- Fabric: Tussar Banarasi Silk
- Occasion: Evening Parties, Festivals, Mehndi Ceremonies
- Body Type: Slim, Petite Women
- Style Tip: Pair it with a contrasting coloured blouse to add a modern flair.
3. Nakshi Kantha Bengali Saree:
Look at this saree that exudes traditional Indian charm in the choice of colours and the embroidery techniques used. The green and orange Nakshi Kantha saree features the much-celebrated Bengali Nakshi Kantha work. Adding a floral patch in the centre lends a contemporary charm to this traditional garment. This fusion saree works well for all occasions and is a must-have in your wardrobe.
- Design: Plain Green and Orange Border Kantha Fusion Saree
- Fabric: Handloom Silk
- Occasion: Evening Parties, Social Gatherings, Festivals
- Body Type: All body types
- Style Tip: Go for a bun hairstyle with a Gajra to look like a million bucks.
4. Handloom Cotton Kantha Saree:
If minimalism is your idea of fashion, then this peach Kantha work saree is a must-try! The handspun, handwoven cotton fabric is adorned with colourful running stitches on the border and the pallu. This summery, easy-breezy saree is perfect for outings in warm weather and functions as a casual and work wear ensemble.
- Design: Peach Kantha Stitch Cotton Saree
- Fabric: Handspun, Handwoven Cotton
- Occasion: Casual and Formal Wear
- Body Type: All body types
- Style Tip: Pair it with ethnic accessories to look ethereal.
5. Jamdani Kantha Saree:
The fusion saree features West Bengal’s most prestigious handloom crafts – Jamdani and Kantha Work. The lower half features black and orange Jamdani with a delicate and lacy look. The pallu is designed in cotton fabric that is adorned with intricate Kantha work all over the fabric. Plain red borders accentuate the drape.
- Design: Half Dhakai Jamdani & Half Kantha Stitch Saree
- Fabric: Cotton
- Occasion: Festivals and Social Gatherings
- Body Type: Slim and Tall
- Style Tip: Pair it with an embroidered clutch to complete your look.
6. Batik Kantha Saree:
Check out this bright mustard yellow and black Batik printed saree elevated to a whole new level using Kantha work. The multi-coloured stitch work on the borders and the pallu add an interesting texture to the saree. The unique zig-zag patterned embroidery on the lower half of the drape brings freshness to this traditional design.
- Design: Batik-Kantha Stitch Pure Silk Saree
- Fabric: Bangalore Silk
- Occasion: Weddings, Receptions, Evening Parties
- Body Type: Slim and Tall
- Style Tip: Pair it with antique gold jewellery to look radiant.
7. Nalli Kantha Work Bhagalpuri Saree:
Bhagalpuri silk sarees are lightweight and quite easy to drape. One such piece features a unique colour combination and the much-celebrated Kantha work. The printed motifs on the body are highlighted with thread work to lend an interesting character to the saree. Tiny sequins are added in between to give a subtle shine.
- Design: Purple Bhagalpuri Tussar Silk Saree
- Fabric: Tussar Silk
- Occasion: Festivals, Social Gatherings
- Body Type: Slim and Tall
- Style Tip: Terracotta jewellery works quite well with this drape.
8. Half and Half Banarasi Kantha Saree:
This bright yellow and red Banarasi saree lends regal vibes to set you apart from the crowd. The eye-catchy colours and the shiny Zari woven fabric are adorned with rich Kantha work along the border and the pallu. Traditional motifs like the Paisleys and flowers are embroidered in black, red and gold threads to give the drape a festive look.
- Design: Red & Yellow Kantha-Work Embroidered Half & Half Banarasi Saree
- Fabric: Banaras Silk
- Occasion: Weddings, Receptions, Festivals
- Body Type: Tall and Broad-shouldered
- Style Tip: Pair it with gold jewellery.
9. Floral Black Kantha Stitch Saree:
Look at this black beauty that is easily one of the best Kantha work sarees in the market so far! The contemporary style drape features a black silk saree adorned with silver and gold colour thread work. Traditional floral motifs are tweaked to add a modern flair to the saree. The straight-line pattern on the borders adds a fusion look.
- Design: Floral Kantha Saree with Blouse
- Fabric: Silk
- Occasion: Weddings, Receptions, Festivals
- Body Type: Tall and Broad-shouldered
- Style Tip: Wear statement jewellery with this saree.
10. Bangalore Silk Kantha Work Saree:
Take a look at this statement Kantha work saree that is sure to make heads turn! The bright red Bangalore silk saree is covered with multi-coloured stitch work to create fascinating patterns of leaves and flowers. The lavish and opulent saree is apt for weddings and important occasions where you deserve to hog the limelight!
- Design: Red Bangalore Silk Kantha Work Saree
- Fabric: Silk
- Occasion: Weddings, Reception
- Body Type: Tall and Slim
- Style Tip: Add contrast-coloured jewellery to your look.
11. Black Silk In Kantha Stitch Saree:
This beautiful black silk saree is heavily embroidered in an intricate floral Kantha stitch, perfect for a special evening function. The embroidery is in earthy shades of green, maroon and white and speaks of class and grandeur. This classy black saree is sure to make you a show-stopper.
12. Terracotta Silk Saree In Kantha Work:
Lustrous and glamorous, the terracotta colour of this beautiful silk saree is warm and luxurious. Beautiful gold, white and green Kantha stitches in a floral design on the border and pallu make the saree a winner. Team it with a contrasting blouse, and you will be ready to rock the world.
See More: Gota Sarees
13. Birds And Flowers Magenta Kantha Saree:
Embrace the call of nature and drape yourself in flora and fauna. This beautiful silk saree is a work of art in a vivacious magenta. Contrasted with it is the heavy pallu in a cream colour with an ornate nakshi Kantha embroidery of birds and flowers in pretty pink and green.
See More: Leheriya Saree Designs
14. Blue Silk Saree With White Kantha Work:
Shine like a star in this dazzling royal blue silk saree. Half of the saree, including the thick border, is in an elaborate white Kantha stitch, whilst the Palais are decorated in a combination of a running, floral design and striped pattern. The white against the blue is striking and gorgeous.
See More: Paithani Sarees Colours
15. Black White And Yellow Kantha Stitch:
The golden yellow of this silk Kantha saree contrasts well with the black and white of the pallu. Wear it during the day or evening. The intricate black Kantha work in a delicate flora design on the white silk is a sharp contrast to the plain yellow and is attention-grabbing. The colour combination of the season, be a stylist in this fashionable piece.
How to Style Kantha Sarees:
Styling Kantha sarees can be a delightful and creative process, allowing you to showcase the beauty of the embroidery while expressing your fashion sense. Here are some tips to help you style Kantha sarees:
Focus on the Saree:
- Let the Kantha saree take centre stage by keeping the rest of your ensemble simple. Allow the intricate embroidery and vibrant colours of the saree to shine.
- Opt for a plain blouse or one in a complementary colour to create a balanced look.
- Consider choosing a blouse with minimal embellishments or embroidery to avoid overpowering the elegance of the Kantha work.
Draping Style:
- Experiment with different draping styles to add a modern twist to your Kantha saree. Try the classic Nivi drape or a more contemporary style like the butterfly or dhoti drape.
- Please pay attention to the pleats and the pallu, ensuring they are neatly arranged to showcase the details of the Kantha embroidery.
Accessories:
- Choose accessories that enhance the overall look without overwhelming the saree. Opt for minimalistic jewellery to maintain a balanced and elegant appearance.
- Consider wearing statement earrings or a delicate necklace to add a touch of glamour without overpowering the saree.
- Avoid wearing heavy and chunky jewellery, as it can distract from the intricate work of the Kantha embroidery.
Hairstyle and Makeup:
- Opt for a hairstyle that complements the saree and showcases your features. You can choose a sleek bun, loose curls, or a simple braid, depending on your style and occasion.
- Keep your makeup natural and fresh, allowing your natural beauty to shine through. A subtle smokey eye or a bold lip colour can add a touch of glamour to the overall look.
Footwear:
- Choose footwear that complements the style and occasion. For a traditional look, opt for embellished juttis or sandals in a colour that complements the saree.
- You can pair the saree with stylish heels or wedges for a more contemporary look.
Contrast or Coordinate:
- Decide whether you want to create a contrasting or coordinated look.
- If your Kantha saree features vibrant colours, you can opt for a blouse or accessories in a complementary colour to create a harmonious look.
- For a bolder look, you can choose contrasting colours that make the Kantha embroidery stand out even more.
Remember, styling a Kantha saree is a personal expression of your style and creativity. Feel free to experiment and adapt these tips to suit your preferences and the occasion. Ultimately, wear your Kantha saree confidently and gracefully, showcasing the artistry and heritage woven into each stitch.
Kantha Work is one of the ancient forms of embroidery. Women of many generations have embraced it. Kantha work saree designs are known for their laborious and tedious process of stitching the entire fabric. However, technology surely has reduced artificial efforts. Machine-made Kantha work involves multiple staging production models. Although mass-produced, they can never replace the beauty of a skillfully made handmade saree. Kantha work sarees are extremely popular with tourists, who take one back home as souvenirs.
