The Evolution of The Saree

The sari is a traditional garment worn by women from various countries such as India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. It is a piece of colourful fabric made from cotton, silk or other synthetic material that is wrapped around women’s bodies and left to hang over the shoulder or wrapped around the head. Today, the evolution of the sari has led to its influences to be seen on international runways at fashion shows, movies and games such as Bollywood Story slot. In this NetEnt slot, you’ll find a casino game that thrives on Indian culture and fashion. Let’s journey back to look at the origin of the sari.

It is believed that the sari originated from the Mesopotamian civilisation but was also known to countries such as Egypt, Sumer and Assyria. Women would have worn the sari as loincloths around the lower part of their bodies, leaving their chest bare.  Isn’t it interesting to note that when women covered their heads with the sari, it was not as a religious requirement but rather to show off their beautiful hairstyles or even the embroidery of the fabric?

It was not until the Persians and Greeks arrived in India that Indian women were influenced to wear stitched jackets with their sari. This would later become the choli. The Persians also introduced pearls and precious stones that were embedded into fabrics and this led to rich women to wear those because of their status. The contemporary dressing of the sari dates back to paintings of the post-Moghul era which goes to show the various influences of the sari. Who knew?

Queens and princesses from wealthy Indian families wore saris that were embellished with gold and precious stones and made from the most beautiful fabrics.  Each fabric was given a name depending on its consistency and where it came from. Before long, these saris were valued all over the world and sold afar. How magical!

Over the years, the growth and progress of the textile industry in India transformed the design of the sari with different weaves, prints and patterns. But the industrial revolution made the traditional weavers and dyeing experts redundant. Those weavers gave women clothes that were unique and exclusive; they were artists! And even today, it is still popular  amongst young and elder women of the subcontinent.

The sari has evolved into a rich and fashionable item.  Saris are customised across the world and worn by women who embellish those with jewellery and other accessories. Despite all the different garments available to those women, it is still the sari that has remained a favourite amongst brides. Young brides relish the thought of taking their first step as married women whilst wearing the traditional bridal sari. Therefore, all evidence shows that the sari is set to remain with us for a long time!