10 Things You Need to Know Before Buying a Handloom Saree
Purchasing handloom sarees is usually a tricky process, but it can be made exponentially simpler. First and foremost, make sure you explore all the things you need to know before buying a handloom saree. For instance, you must enquire about its authenticity, fabric, designs, motifs, price, zari work and, most importantly, whether it suits you well. Once you’re sure of these aspects, you can make a wise and informed purchase.
Are you thinking of buying a handloom saree? If yes, beware. Since the demand for handloom sarees is high, it’s easy to get mistaken and accidentally spend your money in the wrong place. Thus, to make sure you find the best saree, explore the 10 most important things you need to know before buying a handloom saree. With the list provided in this blog, you’re sure to make a wise purchase and find the best handloom saree in the market. Or if you’re still confused or can’t find good options, check out Blush Mango’s extensive collection of handloom sarees.
Things You Need To Know Before Buying a Handloom Saree
Listed below is a list of the ten most important things you need to know before buying a handloom saree. This information will equip you to make the best purchase at good prices.
#1 What is a Handloom Saree?
Before you jump into buying a handloom saree, it is essential to understand what ‘handloom’ truly means. Handloom sarees are manually woven by artisans using traditional looms. It also means that all sarees are completely unique, adding to their authenticity. It also means that embroidery or hand-painting work done differs from fabric to fabric, but that further adds to its value.
On the contrary, power loom sarees are made completely by machine and have the same uniformity throughout. They often lack the intricate details of handloom.
#2 Origin of Your Handloom
Another one of the important things you need to know before buying a handloom saree is its origin. Handloom sarees originating from different regions vary in terms of weave and fabric. For instance, some of the popular handloom sarees are Banarasi (Uttar Pradesh), Kanjivaram (Tamil Nadu), Chanderi (Madhya Pradesh), Jamdani (West Bengal), Patola (Gujarat), Parsi Gara, and Batik (West Bengal and Madhya Pradesh) sarees.
#3 Is It Authentic?
Make sure that the saree you have shortlisted is 100% authentic handloom. Because of its authenticity, the price varies. The best way to verify that is to check the handloom mark or see if the store is government-certified. You can also see if the fabric looks too uniform. Handloom sarees usually have minor differences here and there because of human intervention.
#4 Consider the Material
Handloom sarees typically come in a variety of different fabrics, and their quality, price, and authenticity differ accordingly. For instance, silk, cotton and linen - each is suited for various occasions, comfort and festivals.
People usually hesitate when it comes to the fabric of the saree, because the chances of deception increase. However, with Blush Mango, you get the best-quality fabric and most authentic sarees.
#5 Zari & Work
Handloom sarees typically have extensive zari work, made of silver or gold-plated threads. These are crafted to maintain the overall shine of the saree and ensure that it does not deteriorate over time. However, when the zari, embroidery or fabric work is done artificially or with concessions, the saree will look dull and cheap in some time. Thus, checking the authenticity of the work done on the handloom sarees is very important.
#6 Cost
One of the most crucial things to know before buying a handloom saree is to check the price. Because of the manual work involved, these sarees are more expensive than power loom ones. Yet, you should ensure not to get ripped off! Investigate the authenticity of the saree, the amount of zari work, the design intricacy, the crafting techniques and the region to get an accurate idea of how much the saree might cost.
#7 Maintenance
Handloom sarees usually need a special kind of care to maintain their quality over time. For instance, silk sarees need to be dry-cleaned; cotton sarees might bleed colour if washed with other clothes; zari sarees need to be kept away from sunlight, etc. Before you purchase your saree, enquire about how to keep it well-maintained and in good quality over time.
#8 Does It Suit You?
Over time, handloom sarees have become a symbol of status rather than just outfits. So while the urge to have an expensive handloom saree in your collection might be too appealing, ensure that it suits your complexion, body type and overall preference. Explore different drapes and pallu falls to see if it’s comfortable and easy to carry.
#9 Sustainable Choice
Power loom sarees, while pocket-friendly and convenient to purchase, may not be as sustainable as you think. Handloom sarees, on the other hand, are much more environmentally friendly as they cause a very minimal carbon footprint and are crafted by artisans by hand. So buying a handloom saree means you’re supporting India’s culture while simultaneously contributing to environmentally sustainable fashion practices.
#10 Buy Your Handloom Saree from a Trusted Source
The best way to stay safe while buying a handloom saree is to purchase it from a trusted source. You can get it directly from the artisans’ workshops. Check out state-run handloom shops. You can also check out government-certified handloom stores.
Or you can check out handloom sarees from Blush Mango. Here, we ensure you get the best-quality sarees at affordable prices without any risk.
Choose The Best Handloom Sarees With Blush Mango
When you check out sarees at Blush Mango, the list of things you need to know before buying a handloom saree shortens significantly. Our collection features some of the best fabrics, most authentic designs, excellent craftsmanship, and only the most beautiful pieces. Our sarees are crafted with love and extreme care to ensure that customers get only the best. Moreover, our prices are also very affordable, so you don’t have to burn a hole in your pocket to own a stunning saree.
Check out the best of Blush Mango’s handloom sarees here: Buy Authentic Weaves & Premium Style Handloom Sarees in India
Final Thoughts on Buying a Handloom Saree
Handloom sarees are usually high-stake products that you need to be careful about. Since these sarees are typically in high demand, there are many avenues to get ripped off. Therefore, it’s important to consider the list of things you need to know before buying a handloom saree. First, truly understand what ‘handloom’ means, the different regions of origin, the zari and embroidery style, and the fabric’s quality. You must check the overall authenticity of the saree before investing a lot of money in it. Also, ensure that you buy your saree only from trusted sources, like Blush Mango!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How to identify an original handloom saree?
In the list of things you need to know before buying a handloom saree, knowing how to identify an original piece is at the top. The easiest way is to get your saree from a trusted, government-certified store or to check for the handloom authenticity mark/certification.
2. What is special about handloom sarees?
As the name suggests, handloom sarees are crafted by skilled artisans by hand, meaning that the fabric stitching, zari or embroidery work, and all the designs are done uniquely. Because of the special attention given to each saree, they’re also superior in terms of quality. Handloom sarees are a way to support local artists, promote our culture and lean towards environmentally sustainable fashion choices.
3. Which jewellery suits a handloom saree?
Handloom sarees typically give a rich look and form an elegant outfit. Thus, similar gold jewellery or statement pieces that match the grace will suit the saree. You can also choose pearl jewellery for a more delicate look.
4. How many types of handloom sarees are there?
In India, there are over 27 different types of handloom sarees, each depending on the cultural heritage and regional history.
5. What are the disadvantages of handloom sarees?
Handloom sarees tend to be slightly expensive because of the amount of time and effort that goes into them. Also, since they’re crafted by artisans by hand, there might be minor discrepancies or irregularities in the design and crafting of the saree. However, the rich and elegant look of a handloom saree makes up for its disadvantages. Check out Blush Mango’s collection today!