The traditional garment worn
by Indian women is called the saree or sari. While the exact origin of
the saree is not known, yet researches have shown existence of sarees
way back in 3000 BC in the Indus Valley civilization. The important
characteristics of a saree are as follows:
Characteristics of Saree
- The saree is one of the most common and oldest forms of dress
for women in India and it continues to be the most popular dress
worn by Indian women. The saree is long rectangular shaped strip of
unstitched cloth, ranging from 5 to 9 yards in length.
- The style, colour and texture of this cloth varies and it might
be made from cotton, silk or one of the several man-made materials.
The most expensive woven saree is in silk. The designs may reflect
regional cultures such as the "Kanjivarams" from the south
or Muga silks from the east.
- The saree has an age old charm because it is not cut or stiched
for a particular size.
- The saree can fit any size and if worn properly can accentuate
the woman's curves.
- The variety of designs, drapes, fabrics, and colours in sarees
reveal a unique blending of religious and cultural influences of
India.
Inspite of the emergence of various western wear and other dresses in
the Indian market, saree still remains the most favoured dress of Indian
women. No other dress can show grace, elegance and dignity as much as a
sari can to any women who wears it.