Saree

The word Saree itself is a corrupted version of Sanskrit word 'sati' which means 'strip of cloth' which is unstiched warn by females .

The history of Indian clothing trace the Saree back to the Indus valley civilization, which flourished in 2800-1800 BCE in the Sindh and Punjab regions of what is now Pakistan.  It is popular in India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Burma, Malaysia, and Singapore.

It is worn wrapped around the body with the end left hanging or used over the head as a hood. There are many different styles of wrapping and draping the Saree, and these vary according to gender, region, social class, ethnic background, and personal style .There are many different styles of wrapping and draping the Saree, and these vary according to gender, region, social class, ethnic background, and personal style . There are various materials that the sarees can be developed with bright colour , frequently embroidered, silk, cotton, banarsi, lawn ,net , Georgette, chiffon and many other materials can be used.

The Saree is such a garment that it can show a beautiful slim figure of a lady as well as covering up extra flab in other circumstances. Sarees are woven with one plain end two long decorative banarsi or silk borders running the length of the Saree . In past times, sarees were woven of silk or cotton only the rich could afford finely-woven . All sarees were handwoven and represented a considerable investment of time or money .

Asian sarees has gained its popularity internationally due to the growth of Indian fashion trends and movies globally. Many Bollywood celebrities, like Aishwarya Rai, have worn it at international events representing the Indian culture. In 2010, Bollywood actress Deepika Padukone wanted to represent her country at an international event, wearing the national costume.

The traditional Saree made an impact in the United States during the 1970s . Even popular Hollywood celebrities like Pamela Anderson made a surprise guest appearance on Big Boss, dressed in a Saree . The annual Fashion Rocks concert held in New York Jessica, Ashley, Nicole, Kimberly and Melody - the Pussycat Dolls -All  dressed in sarees . Even, celebrities like Angelina Jones, Elizabeth Hurley and Oprah Winfrey have worn Saree. You should recall seeing Oprah Winfrey wearing a saree when Aishwarya Rai went to her show.

Although in today's world, the Saree is more of a fashion statement .The modern and famous banarasi and silk sarees have become statute of bridal wear .

The variety of colors, patterns, weaves and draping styles make the Saree one of the world's most fascinating costumes. Hundreds of regional weaving centers are still engaged in traditional handloom production. Today in India six and a half million people are engaged in the production of handloom sarees .

Disadvantages Of wearing sarees :

•     There is no more impractical dress in the world than the Saree.
•     In summer, the folds stick unpleasantly around the legs.
•     In winter, it has no protection against cold.
•     In the rains, it collects mud and filth at the hem.
•     One hand is tied up to the Saree, leaving only hand free to use.
•     It has no buttons. When the hem is stepped upon while walking, it might fully slip down.
•     It is not suitable to wear during sports.