Fashion Blogs

Chanderi is indigenous to Madhya Pradesh and is one of the oldest weaves in India. The fabric itself is smooth and shimmering as it is woven using silk and a traditional yarn along with zari embellishments. Chanderi fabric is generally found in three types: Chanderi silk, Chanderi silk cotton and Chanderi pure cotton. However, of these, Chanderi silk is the most popular and has been used to make Chanderi sarees and salwar kameez. Chanderi sarees have been used as ceremonial wear for a long time, although it is also considered the quintessential summer wear in ethnic fashion. It is well suited for the workplace too.

Although the fabric is said to have existed even in the Vedic era, it did not receive patronage until the Mughal era. During this period it really flourished and then again saw a decline until the year 1910 when it was revived by the royalty of Scindia.

There are two defining characteristics of a Chanderi saree. The first are the buttis embroidered onto it by hand. Each of these buttis requires a special needle and is coated with gold, silver and copper after they’re made. Inspirations for these motifs come from nature and geometry. There are many atypical motifs that are peculiar to this saree style.

The other major characteristic of Chanderi sarees is their transparency. The glue is not separated from the yarn, resulting in a sheen that is identified with this type of saree.

The traditional color scheme of Chanderi sarees was pastel although modern day trends have brought about a significant change. Bright and vivid colors like navy and fuchsia are now extremely popular.

The primary use of this fabric has been to create nine-yard saree drapes. However, fashion designers have taken it upon themselves to introduce a whole range of modern garments in it.