Sari borders

Types of sari borders

The sari border is a decorative edge stitched to enhance the beauty of a sari. It can be embellished with lace, embroidery, or other materials. Below are some popular types of sari borders:

• Embroidered Borders:

  Embroidered borders are textile art that stitch patterns on borders using threads and needles. They consist of machine-made or hand-made embroidery. The hand-made embroidered borders are unique and delicate. On the contrary, machine-made borders are less expensive and more consistent. They have different designs, such as floral, paisley, and geometric patterns. They are made of different materials, like net fabric, cotton, and silk. These embroidered borders are versatile and can be used in various traditional attire beyond just sarees.

• Beaded Borders:

  Beaded borders are decorative edges that incorporate beads into the fabric. They are sewn along the border of the sari to add embellishment and elegance. These beads can be sequins, pearls, or gemstones. Beaded borders are popular for evening wear saris. They add a glamorous touch and can be costly depending on the bead type and craftsmanship.

• Jacquard Borders:

  Jacquard borders are woven patterns in the fabric. They create designs along the border of the sari. The designs can be complex and intricate since they are woven using a Jacquard loom. Jacquard borders are beautiful, elegant, and durable. They can be more expensive but require less maintenance than embroidered borders.

• Patchwork Borders:

  Patchwork borders are a combination of different fabrics stitched together. They create a border along the edge of the sari. They offer a unique and customized look. These borders are versatile and can use different materials like silk, cotton, lace, or satin. They are popular for their creative and personal touch. However, they require a high level of skill to produce a quality border. Sometimes, they are not as durable as other border types.

• Lace Borders:

  Lace borders are delicate and open-weave. They add femininity and elegance to the sari. Lace borders are versatile since they come in various styles, from simple to intricate. They can also be made from different materials like cotton, silk, or synthetic threads. Additionally, lace borders are lightweight and they offer a subtle charm to the sari.

Function and feature of sari borders

• Embellishment:

  The sari border is the part of the garment that usually gets the most embellishment. It can be a few inches wide and is heavily embroidered with sequins, beads, or stones. The embellishment serves both functional and aesthetic purposes. It adds weight to the drape so the sari falls beautifully. The intricate designs that are stitched along the border help to define and enhance the lines of the border. The embellishment also makes the border a focal point. Instead of just blending in with the rest of the fabric, the border pops out and grabs attention.

• Color:

  The color of the sari border can make or break an outfit. A well-matched border will pull the whole look together, while a mismatched border will throw everything off. But don't think that a border has to be the same color as the sari to work. A border that is just a shade or two different from the sari's main hue can add depth and interest to the ensemble. On the other hand, a border that is significantly darker or lighter than the sari's body will serve to highlight the distinction between the two parts of the garment. This can be particularly striking if the border is a completely different tone altogether. For instance, a bright fuchsia border against a muted beige sari is going to turn heads.

• Material:

  Sari borders come in all kinds of materials, and each one offers something unique. Silk borders have a natural sheen that screams elegance. When paired with a silk sari, the whole outfit exudes luxury. If a border is made of lace, it instantly adds a delicate, feminine touch. Lace borders work particularly well for evening saris. They give off a classy, yet slightly edgy vibe. If a border is made of net, it creates a beautiful layered effect. The sheer net border adds depth to the sari without making it feel too heavy. This material is also super versatile. It can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Beaded borders are another option worth considering. They can take a plain sari and make it party-ready in an instant.

Scenarios of sari borders

Sari borders are applied in various ways and can be customized for different functions. These include:

• Sari Customization

  Wholesale buyers can find beautiful sari borders that can be sewn onto the border of a plain sari to add an elegant touch. Sari borders with intricate embroidery or sequin work will make a simple sari look more festive and glamorous. They also have a practical function. They can be tailored to match the blouse and petticoat, creating a cohesive overall look.

• Lehengas

  Sari borders are a popular embellishment on lehengas, adding glamor and elegance to the skirt. They are sewn along the hemline of the skirt in ornate patterns, creating a beautiful festive garment that is ideal for weddings and other traditional ceremonies. The bridal blouse and dupatta can also be embellished with sari borders to create a coordinated bridal ensemble.

• Blouses

  Sari borders can enhance the look of blouses. When applied along the necklines and sleeve hems, they add a touch of elegance and detail. This is a quick and easy way to elevate the blouses' overall appearance and allow them to complement a simple sari or skirt set.

• Dupattas

  Sari borders are also used to embellish dupattas. They are usually sewn along the four sides of the dupatta. This creates a balanced and coordinated look when the dupatta is draped over the shoulders or head.

• Home Decor

  Sari borders can also be applied to home decor items like tablecloths, cushion covers, and curtains. This adds a touch of elegance and color to these items.

How to Choose Sari Borders

When choosing the sari border, consider the factors that affect the finished look and style of the sari. Here are some of the factors that will need to be considered:

• Fabric of the sari and border

  The fabric of the border and the sari should be compatible. This is because if the border fabric is too stiff or thick, it may not drape well on the pleats or pallu. On the other hand, if it is too delicate, it may not last long after stitching. So, consider getting border fabrics that are similar to the body fabric of the sari.

• Embellishments

  When selecting embellishments to be used on the sari border, it is important to consider the style and occasion. For casual borders with embroidery work, it can be used for everyday wear. However, when opting for borders with sequins or beads, they offer more bling and are suitable for evening events.

• Color and width of the border

  When choosing a sari border, consider the color of the border. It should complement the color of the sari fabric. If you want to achieve a traditional look, opt for a gold or zari border. However, if you want to achieve a modern touch, a lace border will work perfectly.

  Also, consider the width of the border. A wider border is more dramatic, while a narrower one is more subtle and elegant.

• Pattern and style of the border

  The border pattern plays a major role in determining the final look of the sari. Choose a border pattern that matches the style of the sari. For instance, if the Sari has floral patterns, it will be more visually appealing to select a border with similar patterns. Also, consider the style of the border. It can be paisley, geometric, or abstract. Choose a style that matches the occasion.

sari borders_2 Q and A

Q1: What are the most popular border styles for sari borders?

A1: The most popular sari border style is the embroidered border. Beaded and sequined borders are also popular. Zari borders are loved by many, while lace borders are commonly used.

Q2: Do sari borders serve any functional purpose?

A2: The borders of a sari mainly serve aesthetic purposes. However, they can also provide some additional weight to the drape's edge. This extra weight can help the border area fall more elegantly during draping.

Q3: Can border patterns affect the appearance of a sari?

A3: Yes, border patterns can affect the appearance of a sari. Wider borders can make the wearer look broader, while narrower ones can create a more streamlined look. Additionally, placement patterns, such as top-heavy designs, can also impact how the eye travels along the garment.

Q4: Are there borders for men's garments?

A4: Yes, there are borders for men's garments. Men can also wear embellished borders. For instance, sherwani, jodhpuri suits, and kurtas may have embellished borders. Nevertheless, men mainly wear plain, bordered garments. Unlike women, men do not wear patterned borders at the garment's edge.

Q5: What modern uses are there for sari borders?

A5: Sari borders can be used in many modern applications. They can be attached to other garments as border laces. They can also be used as decorative patches. In some instances, sari borders can be used to make jewelry and bags.