17 Types Of Sarees From Across The Country & 51 Of Our Best Product Recos!

Who hasn't heard of the Banarasi silk saree? Typically having Mughal motifs, these are a great option for weddings and are a popular option among 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 are usually really heavy. If you're looking to go for an ultra-real look, go for a Banarasi brocade saree, which basically means that the textile is even more finely woven. Now you can also find the Banarasi-style motif in georgette, organza, cotton or linen sarees, but like my mother would say, if you really want a Banarasi saree, it has to be silk.

Care Instructions: These are heirloom pieces that can be passed down through generations. I would suggest you dry clean them after every wear, place them in a protective cover with butter paper placed in between the folds, and keep them carefully stored in your wardrobe and not a box bed. Opening them up and folding them in a different way is also recommended so that the fine fabric doesn't get misshaped.

Draping difficulty: 9/10. These are really heavy sarees and require expertise and practise to drape. 

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 has to be one of my top choices of saree varieties for a day event or even for everyday wear. They can be a little tedious to carry because of the texture of the fabric, but if you pin it up just the right amount, it's the best summer-wear option.

Patronised by Rajput rulers, Leheriya is unique to Rajasthan, mostly Jaipur and Jodhpur. It's a tie and 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 created on any material, such as cotton, georgette, silk or a blend, but I would suggest getting a pure georgette Leheriya saree. They come in vivid bright colours perfect for evening or day event. They can be a bit fragile, so I would suggest adding a lace or gota or any other additional border to the saree to give it some weight and avoid the edges fraying/tearing. This also makes them easier to carry and drape while adding to the look! 

Care Instructions: Remember to hand wash leheriya sarees in cold water with mild detergent instead of machine washing. 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.

Draping difficulty: 6/10. These are pretty easy to drape, but because of its flowy nature, I'd suggest draping it in one go. Redoing the drape can be difficult. Safety pins are your friend here. 

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

LBB Tip: Add a tiny bit of paper to the safety pin to protect the fabric from tearing. 

I will wear anything chikankari. I think there was a phase in my life when I only went out wearing chikankari. And when you bring sarees to that mix? Take my 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 among the gorgeous, simple, saree varieties you can wear to office, for a date, to a day event, you can even wear to a casual wedding function! Unique to Lucknow, this white-thread hand embroidery fabric can be done on a variety of materials, including but not limited to 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. 

Draping Difficulty: 4/10 to 7/10. The difficulty depends on the intricacy of the work, the more intricate the work, the heavier the saree will be. 

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

LBB Tip: Wear with heels to avoid the edges getting frayed. 

We have come to my absolute favourite textile (I am biased of course). 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 is 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 type of sarees usually on materials like stiff cotton or raw silk, and I would suggest sticking to those since they are the most long-lasting and won't be machine printed. You can now find more modern designs like 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 in a dry place inside a protective wrap. 

Draping difficulty: 9/10. Because the fabric is mostly available in stiff cotton or heavy raw silk, they have to be draped with expertise but guarantee fine lines and silhouette when done well. 

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.

I believe there is nothing more beautiful than a Kantha stitch saree. This is one of those types of sarees that is made by a centuries-old craft that is, Kantha. It is a form of embroidery that originated in the Bengal region which 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 now can take anywhere from a couple of weeks to a couple of months and is usually done on raw silk, tussar silk, or pure cotton. It usually has intricatrely woven geometric patterns, but now also come in floral patterns and stitches that depict rural life. While you can 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 in a breathable cotton bag to protect it from dust and moisture.

Draping difficulty: 8/10. Silk can be a difficult material to drape but falls beautifully when done well. 

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 is the Muga silk saree, especially as the mekhela chador. Usually found in the off-white or cream with intricate weaves, Muga silk can be hand-washed (although I would say don't take a risk and get it dry cleaned), and gets more lustrous after every wash—can you believe that? My favourite drape is the mekhela chador, which 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. Now, the 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 wearing heavy jewellery as it can snag or pull on the silk.

Draping Difficulty: 6/10. Mekhela chadors are really easy to drape once you know the right way to do it! 

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 usually done in striking gold and are wide, the patterns and motifs on these sarees are usually inspired by temple life of South India or nature, such as floral patterns or leaves. These types of sarees are really heavy sarees usually 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 it 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.

Draping difficulty: 9/10. They are difficult to drape just because of the sheer weight of 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 and the 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, but the saree is now available as a single piece as many women prefer it. Although I would suggest going for the classic gold border, there are modern options available that pair gold with bright colours such as red and green. 

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

Draping difficulty: 6/10. Only because it is silk and needs a steady hand. 

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

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

One of my mother's favourites, these are bright, colourful and so fun to style. The Narayanpet saree comes from a region district in Andhra Pradesh with the same name. The region 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 sets 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 can be pretty affordable. 

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

Draping difficulty: 4/10. 

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.

Draping difficulty: 5/10. The silk is ex tremely soft and so easier to handle. 

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 belongs to Madhya Pradesh and 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 paste 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 it. 

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

Draping difficulty: 6/10. While not hard to drape, try to do it one go, as once pleated, it can look shabby if done again. 

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

LBB-Tip: The fabric has a puffy and stiff appearance, so embrace it; avoid striving for perfectly clean lines.

Vibrant, intricate and evergreen—from the Patan region of Gujarat, the patola saree is made by first dyeing the fabric with natural colour and then woven 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. This painstakingly woven pieces are priceless heirloom pieces, but it is unfortunately a dying art. 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.

Draping difficulty: 7/10

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.

Draping difficulty: 6/10

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 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. 

Draping difficulty: 7/10

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 festive season.

Draping difficulty: 6/10

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 that 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. 

Draping difficulty: 5/10

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

LBB Tip: Choose a fitted blouse as the Gadwal saree often comes with a heavier pallu. This will help balance the weight of the saree.

As the name suggests, these traditional sarees were originally 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 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.

Draping difficulty: 4/10

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