Paithani saree is a very popular Marathi saree. The saree is from a town named Paithani in Maharashtra. It is well known for its hand-woven silk sarees and its bright combination of colours. You can easily identify the original Paithani sarees by their characters and features. The characteristic features of these sarees are the peacock designed pallu with vibrant zari works. Kaleidoscopic design is another unique feature of this saree by weaving one coloured thread bread-wise and another coloured length-wise. Various other motifs are also available in the designer Paithani sarees. The border and pallu are the main highlights of the Paithani saris. It is also considered one of India’s richest saree, which is exported to various other countries.

History of Paithani Sarees:

In case you are wondering what makes them a popularly sought choice, here are some things you should know about Paithani saris.

  • Paithani dates back to the Satavahana Dynasty who ruled between the second century BC and the second century AD.
  • This fine silk handloom sarees get their name from the town in which they originated, Paithani, located in Aurangabad; Maharashtra flourished during the Mughals era, particularly during the rule of Aurangzeb. He used to punish Jamdani weavers for encouraging them to produce something creative and novel. Hence Paithani introduced various novelties in the appearance of the traditional Paithani.
  • When the Paithani weaving industry experienced a setback with the Industrial Revolution and with the appearance of the British rule, in the 17th century, the Peshwas took the responsibility upon themselves to promote the craft, and consequently, settled Paithani weavers in Yeola, which is now the manufacturing hub for Paithani. From then on, Paithani experienced a new life.
  • One of Paithani sarees’ specialities is while it is available in both six and nine yards, the most interesting part about the Paithani handloom is that both sides of the saree look the same. Even the border and pallu! This is a sign of a handloom Paithani.

Special Features of Paithani Sarees:

So what makes these sarees different from the other traditional handloom drapes of India? Read along to know:

  • Paithani sarees are lustrous weaves that have a lasting shine. Unlike the other silk sarees, their sheen won’t fade away with time.
  • A Genuine Paithani saree is woven with 500 gms of silk thread and 250 gms of silver or gold zari threads, making them one of the most expensive drapes that money can buy.
  • Another key feature is that when you reverse a Paithani saree, you cannot distinguish between the top and bottom sides, as they look the same.
  • These sarees mostly use natural dyes, which is why they come in limited colour choices like magenta, red, yellow, green, purple, peach etc.
  • The pallu is always brightly coloured and in a contrasting shade from the body of the saree.
  • The motifs or butis on the saree are heavily inspired by nature and include shapes like a peacock (mor), parrot (tota), flowers and vines (asavali), mango shape (Koyari), bangle and peacocks (bangadi mor) etc.

Types of Paithani Sarees:

Paithani sarees are broadly classified into two categories – Traditional and Brocade.

  • Traditional Paithani Sarees: These sarees are designed in a 28-inch pallu. They feature traditional motifs and borders that are not too complex or time-taking.
  • Brocade Paithani Sarees: These sarees have an elaborate pallu that can measure around 40 inches or more. They have big motifs, typically of parrot, peacock or lotus.

Apart from this main classification, Paithani sarees come in different varieties based on the colours, weaves and motifs used.

How to Identify a Real Paithani Saree from a Fake One?

Paithani sarees are labour-intensive weaves and quite expensive too. In order to meet the high demand for these sarees, cheaper and fake versions got into the market. So, how do you know if the Paithani sari you are buying is a real or a fake one? Follow these tips listed below:

  • Firstly, examine the border of the saree. When you reverse the border, you should see the exact pattern on the upper side without any difference. The fake ones have a web of threads on the backside.
  • Genuine handloom paithani saris are manufactured in limited colours. But if you see something very different from the usual colour palette, consider it a machine-made product.
  • Real Paithani sarees are heavy and have a rich sheen. Powerloom sarees have a coarse texture with a cheap shine that won’t last long.
  • Original Paithani saris are priced on the higher side and start 8000 rupees to up to a few tens of thousands and sometimes even lakhs (if pure gold is used). Cheaper ones can start from 1000 rupees as well.

Care and Maintenance of a Paithani Saree:

When you buy a Paithani saree, remember you are not just buying a piece of cloth, but a part of our rich culture and glorious heritage. So, it’s important to take the right care of this special weave:

  • Always store your Paithani sari in a soft and clean Muslin cloth. You can use a cotton saree bag as well.
  • Do not apply any perfumes or chemicals to the saree, as they can ruin its beauty.
  • Keep the saree away from naphthalene balls or closet fresheners.
  • Take the saree out once a while for some airing.
  • After every use, change the folds.
  • Don’t keep the saree in damp and wet places, as doing so can damage the colour and texture.

Traditional and Beautiful Pure Paithani Sarees With Images:

Here, top 35 Paithani saree designs with pictures illustrated with pictures that would surely attract you.

1. Banarasi Paithani Saree:

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Here is a unique saree that combines the best of Paithani and Banarasi weaves. The Plain pattern on the saree blends the traditional designs with contemporary motifs. With classic colours like red and beige, there is no way you can go wrong with this saree. Do check out the eye-catchy pallu, which features the iconic Peacock motifs.

  • Design: Red and Beige Plain Paithani Saree with Designed Border
  • Material: Katan Silk
  • Occasion: Weddings, Receptions
  • Body Type: All Body Types
  • Style Tip: Team it with a Nath and choker set for a traditional look.

2. Party Wear Paithani Saree:

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No traditional party is complete without the women decking up in their best silk saree. This is why we have reserved this stunner for you! The navy blue Paithani saree looks extraordinary with its large butis all over the body and a pink zari border. The Pallu features lotus and leaf butis against a rich metallic zari background. Wear it with a lovely blouse to hog the limelight.

  • Design: Navy Blue Paithani With Pink Border And Leaf Buttas
  • Material: Art Silk
  • Occasion: Weddings, Receptions
  • Body Type: All Body Types
  • Style Tip: Try a traditional Maharashtrian style drape for a different look.

3. Fancy Paithani Saree:

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Check out this gorgeous piece that deserves a special place in your wardrobe. The intricate weave on the body and the pallu lends matchless opulence. The fuchsia body features a tightly woven pattern in resham and zari threads. It is finished with a thick border in red and gold. The peacock pallu elevates the beauty of this saree to a whole new level!

  • Design: Pure Paithani Silk Saree in Fuchsia
  • Material: Pure Silk
  • Occasion: Weddings, Receptions, Bridal Wear
  • Body Type: All Body Types
  • Style Tip: Accessorize it with a gold waistbelt to look radiant.

4. Maroon Paithani Woven Saree:

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Maroon is a traditional colour in Paithani sarees which suits women of all age groups. Adding a hint of red on the border and pallu makes it a suitable pick for the upcoming wedding and festive season. The pure silk handloom Paithani saree features a double border in golden Zari and an exquisite peacock design on the Pallu.

  • Design: Maroon Double Pallu Paithani With Red Border
  • Material: Pure Silk
  • Occasion: Festivals, Traditional Wear
  • Body Type: All Body Types
  • Style Tip: Pair the saree with a contrasting coloured blouse and accessories.

5. Pink Paithani Zari Saree:

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Fuschia Pink is a vibrant colour that can make you look special even in large crowds. This Paithani saree features an irresistible combination of Fuschia and Ink blue on the borders and the Pallu. The classy drape is ideal for flaunting your ethnic style at weddings and traditional gatherings. The strikingly bold looking Pallu features peacock motifs on a Zari background.

  • Design: Pure Paithani Silk Saree in Fuchsia
  • Material: Pure Silk
  • Occasion: Festivals, Traditional Wear
  • Body Type: All Body Types
  • Style Tip: Pick Kempu jewellery to match the colour scheme.

6. Cotton Paithani Saree:

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When it comes to offering unparalleled comfort and style, cotton remains the undisputed queen of fabrics. Here is one such lavish Paithani saree in pure cotton silk that combines the best of traditional and contemporary fashion. The peach saree is accentuated with a rich golden border and a heavy pallu in colourful motifs.

  • Design: Peach Rich Pallu Cotton Paithani
  • Material: Pure Cotton silk
  • Occasion: Festivals, Weddings
  • Body Type: All Body Types
  • Style Tip: Go for Navaratna jewellery to look strikingly beautiful.

7. Checks Paithani Saree:

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Checks sarees have an understated elegance which any woman can carry off with ease. This attractive saree features vintage checks in a classic combination of mustard yellow and red. The saree lends traditional vibes, making it a perfect pick for any ethnic event. The gorgeous golden pallu with hints of blue and green adds a fine touch to the saree.

  • Design: Pure Paithani Silk Saree in Mustard
  • Material: Pure Silk
  • Occasion: Weddings, Traditional Gatherings
  • Body Type: All Body Types
  • Style Tip: Pair it with temple jewellery for a classy look.

8. Muniya Border Paithani Plain Saree:

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Here is a premium range Paithani saree which features a rare Muniya motif. Muniya in Marathi means a female parrot. The saree features a triple Muniya border with Mor-Muniya motifs sitting on a fountain on the Pallu. The navy blue body is adorned with circular butis all over. This saree is an example of fine craftsmanship and artwork.

  • Design: Paithani Silk Butta Dark Blue Saree With Triple Muniya Border
  • Material: Pure Silk
  • Occasion: Weddings, Receptions
  • Body Type: All Body Types
  • Style Tip: Pair it with statement jewellery to let your outfit do the talking.

9. Georgette Paithani Saree:

Take a look at this handwoven Paithani saree in pure georgette, which features a contemporary pastel palette. The peachy-pink saree is crafted to perfection with the addition of a golden zari in a chevron pattern on the border and delicate floral motifs on the body. The pallu is adorned with diamond-shaped motifs for a beautiful look.

  • Design: Peach Georgette Silk Paithani Saree
  • Material: Pure Georgette
  • Occasion: Evening Parties, Receptions
  • Body Type: Slim and Tall Bodies
  • Style Tip: Pair it with diamond jewellery to compliment the colours on the saree.

10. Paithani Saree for Wedding:

This dazzling gold paithani saree is handcrafted for brides who want to look like nothing but the best on their wedding day! The enchanting golden body is adorned with multi-coloured motifs of peacocks, vines and parrots that elevate the saree’s look. The zig-zag border translates the traditional artform into modern language for the new-generation women!

  • Design: Paithani Silk All Over Jaal Gold Saree
  • Material: Pure Silk
  • Occasion: Weddings, Bridal Wear
  • Body Type: All Body Types
  • Style Tip: Go for layered jewellery to look sensational on your wedding day.

11. Marathi Paithani Silk Saree:

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This yellow and blue Paithani Marathi saree is designed to impress! It is a perfect blend of traditions and modernity which appeals to all sections of women. The yellow body is accentuated with a beautiful indigo blue zari border and a rich pallu woven with peacock motifs. All you need is a simple blouse to steal the show!

  • Design: Pure Paithani Silk Saree in Yellow
  • Material: Pure Silk
  • Occasion: Weddings, Traditional Ceremonies
  • Body Type: All Body Types
  • Style Tip: Team it with an edgy blouse to get that fusion look.

12. Peacock Paithani Saree:

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Here is a classic Paithani silk saree that is worthy of being a priceless family heirloom piece. The highlight of this drape is the intricately woven peacock border on both sides. Notice the detailing on the rich golden zari palla that shines bright. The wine-coloured body is adorned with simple motifs to complement the rest of the saree.

  • Design: Purple Peacock Border Paithani
  • Material: Pure Silk
  • Occasion: Weddings, Receptions
  • Body Type: All Body Types
  • Style Tip: Pair it with a simple blouse to look elegant.

13. Paithani Art Silk Saree:

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If you have budget constraints and cannot afford a genuine silk Paithani saree, you can go for Art silk instead. Art silk or artificial silk is a power loom product and, as the name suggests, is not an original Paithani saree. Peacock motifs are woven in metallic gold zari threads on the border and the body. You can try this one if you dream of owning a Paithani but are on a tight budget.

  • Design: Dark Green Paithani Art Silk Saree
  • Material: Art Silk
  • Occasion: Festivals, Weddings
  • Body Type: All Body Types
  • Style Tip: Wear traditional jewellery to look perfect.

14. Designer Paithani Floral Saree:

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Treat your eyes to this stunner of a saree! The violet and orange zari paithani saree is designed for women who are Queens in their own way. The body features a simple Buti design, while the border and pallu look luxurious with an intricate peacock and flower woven design. The rich zari can definitely set you apart from the crowd and earn you tons of compliments.

  • Design: Violet Zari Woven Paithani Silk Saree
  • Material: Pure Silk
  • Occasion: Weddings, Receptions
  • Body Type: All Body Types
  • Style Tip: Pair it with statement gold jewellery to look resplendent.

15. Brocade Paithani Sarees:

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Although not a ‘real’ Paithani saree, brocade Paithanis are equally popular for their rich look. They are usually preferred by middle-aged women who wish to try something different in the Paithanisegment. Seen here is this orange and gold woven saree that adds a luxurious touch to your look. It comes with an attached blouse piece with plain body and gold borders.

  • Design: Rust Red & Golden Jacquard Woven Design Paithani Saree
  • Material: Jacquard
  • Occasion: Weddings, Receptions
  • Body Type: All Body Types
  • Style Tip: Go for a bun hairstyle decorated with a gajra.

16. Green Paithani Saree With Golden Designed Border:

This new Paithani saree has a light green coloured effect that is contrasted with multi-coloured borders. It has an appreciating outlook. Golden motifs are done over the green portion of the saree. Handwoven peacock designed border and pallu is the main attraction. The speciality of this saree is the gorgeous pallu and borders. To have a contrasting look, pair this saree with a red coloured blouse.

17. Handloom Paithani Saree:

A shaded purple saree with golden works looks beautiful. This purple handloom saree has golden polka dots on it. The border and the pallu are designed differently with red and green Meena works. These fine Meena works are handwoven designs and have a traditional look. This is one of the best silk Paithani saris.

18. Off-White Printed Paithani Art Silk Sari:

This off-white Paithani art silk saree has a textured body with a magnificent pallu. A simple golden border with sleek red lining on both sides of the border runs along with this off-white saree. Violet and green designs on the pallu seem very eye-catchy. This can be worn on traditional or religious occasions.

19. Sky Blue Colored Heavy Pallu Paithani Saree:

This latest Paithani saree is sky blue, one that is blended with a silky texture. You look gorgeous even in this lightly shaded saree. Wide zari borders are quite highlighted and the lower section of the pallu has the same designed multicoloured works. In spite of this, the blue body of the saree has golden dots throughout the saree.

20. Pire Paithani Saree:

Self patchworks are seen in this rani, dark shade of pink coloured silk saree. It is combined with plain golden borders. The pallu is contrasted with a golden base, and on it, peacock designs are being done. Modern style is being combined with traditional Paithani saree looks elegant. This designer saree can be worn at reception parties.

21. Dark Blue Silk Saree With Meena Booties And Peacock Style:

This Paithani saree has Meena booties on the blue bodied portions. This dark shaded blue is combined with golden and red, which have a reflecting look. Pallu has circular and peacock designs done alternatively. The enriching golden coloured pallu seems exclusive with green mainly.

22. Mustard Yellow Paithani Silk Saree:

Mustard yellow coloured Paithani sari has looks beautiful with an orange border. Both the yellow and orange colours are quite bright, and zari works also enhance this outlook. Yellow sections have golden motif designs, and the orange pallu has multi-coloured peacock designs with golden stripes. The golden zari strips also run along the orange border.

23. Traditional White Paithani Saree With Orange Border:

This traditional white saree has an orange designer pallu. It also has orange borders with zari works. The zari works along the border and over the pallu is very eye-catchy. You will surely like this unique designed saree. Nowadays, white sarees are preferred by aged women, but the present generation ladies also chose this combination.

24. Yellow Coloured With Green Border Paithani Saree:

The green and yellow saree look gorgeous with the colour combination. Even though it’s designed Paithani silk sari, the silky texture along with contrasting colours make this saree look elegant. Pallu consists of peacock styled designs with zari works, and the border is golden green-designed.

25. Lustrous Pink Paithani Saree:

This silk saree has a lustrous pink effect with uniquely designed pallu. This colour perfectly goes with ladies having a fair complexion. The pallu has a kaleidoscopic effect with multicolour. Borders have peacock designs with different colours and also with zari works. Try out this latest from the Paithani sari collection.

26. Black and White Peshwai Paithani Sari:

Check white and black design is seen all over in this peshwai Paithani saree. The check designs are mixed differently with this Paithani silk. The green border runs along with the saree with golden zari works. The pallu also consists of a green portion with golden designed works. This latest Paithani sari design is classy and imparts a traditional touch.

27. Designer Paithani Sari With Blue Border:

The vibrant colours of the saree are tomato, red and blue. Both these magnificent colours look attractive with this combination in this piece of Paithani sari. Golden motifs are being done all over the red portion, and the blue pallu has shimmering golden works. This saree look elegant, and you can pair this up with a shimmering golden coloured blouse.

See More: Gota Saree Designs

28. Black Coloured Paithani Saree With Golden Border:

Black is always the preferred choice. This saree has a contrasting colour effect with golden and orange contrasting colours. Orange borders with fine zari works have a shiny outlook. Polka dots are all over the black saree except the pallu. Pallu having a different style of design makes you look attractive in this black Paithani sari.

29. Violet Paithani Silk Saree With Orange Designer Border:

Violet Paithani silk sari has small dots throughout the body of this saree. Orange and golden thread are being weaved simultaneously give the saree a shiny look. The fine-textured Paithani saree has a vibrant outlook. The pallu is orange coloured within this designer zari works done.

30. Rich Blue Paithani Sari With Parrot Green Border:

This semi Paithani saree has a highlighted combination. The parrot green border and pallu section is being combined with this rich blue Paithani silk. This saree has a golden motif, and the borders are being designed. The green pallu has different shaded green and blue works. This is one of the best Paithani saris.

31. Bright Red Peacock Border Art Silk Paithani Saree:

This art silk saree looks magnificent with red coloured effect. This magnificent red colour suits all, and this wedding saree has a heavily designed pallu. Peacock styled designs are done along the lower half of the pallu. The borders are also designed in the same manner, mainly in green and golden colours.

32. Green And Dark-Red Pure Paithani Handloom Silk Sari:

This handloom saree is darkly shaded has a kaleidoscopic effect throughout this Paithani silk. This dark shaded green also has a reddish effect as two different threads are weaved together. Golden motifs are done all over the saree. The red pallu has a temple design over the plain border and also has peacock designs.

33. White And Red Paithani Handloom Silk Saree With Self Design:

A combination of red and white has a traditional touch to it. This red-white combined paithani silk handloom sari looks very elegant. Most of the saree is left plain and simple except the border and the pallu. Fine works are being done over the pallu and borders. This is one of the best paithani sarees.

See More: Kantha Embroidery Sarees

34. Trendy Pink Paithani Sari With Black And Zari Border:

Pink is being combined with black, which makes you look fashionable. This trendy pink saree has a lustrous effect. A black and golden coloured border has traditional patterned designs. The lower portion has golden and black alternating sections that have a magnificent outlook. You can choose to wear a black designer blouse with this saree.

35. Bluish Green Paithani Saree With Zari Border:

The kaleidoscopic effect of this saree looks awesome and vibrant. The shiny texture, along with the bluish-green kaleidoscopic effect, enhances the brightness of this paithani saree. The light falling on this saree gets reflected in different directions resulting in different coloured hues. Magnificent orange pallu and borders are very eye-catchy. This is one of the best paithani sarees.

See More: Leheriya Sarees

Simple or heavy designed paithani saris are available in the market. These paithani silk handwoven sarees makes you look gorgeous with their zari borders and heavily designed pallu. The speciality of these paithani sarees is designed pallu with a kaleidoscopic effect.

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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