Kanchipuram Silk

A genuine Kanchipuram is woven from pure mulberry silk with real zari, and the border and pallu are made separately then locked into the body by hand. That join is called korvai, and it takes two weavers working three shuttles together. Pull gently where the border meets the body: on a real one the silk will give before the join does.

Two other checks. Scrape a zari thread and you should find silver or red silk beneath the gold, never plastic. And a real Kanchipuram has weight to it, noticeably heavier than most silks, because the silk is thicker and the zari is metal.

Kanchipuram silk has carried a Geographical Indication since 2005, meaning only sarees woven in and around Kanchipuram can honestly use the name.

The traditional drape keeps the pallu long and pleated over the left shoulder, which shows the border and the pallu motifs at their best. A belt at the waist holds the pleats crisp and reads more modern without changing the drape.

On blouses, a contrast blouse picked from the border colour is the classic choice, and it makes the border read as deliberate rather than accidental. A matching blouse gives a longer, quieter line.

Younger wearers often drape a Kanchipuram half-saree style over a long skirt for a first saree, which is how most South Indian girls wore one growing up.

Dry clean only - Air the saree after every use - Remove the sarees and air them every 3-4 months for longevity

Is Kanjivaram the same as Kanchipuram?

Yes. They are two spellings of the same weave from the same town. Kanjivaram is the older anglicised form, Kanchipuram is the town's name.

Why are Kanchipuram sarees heavier?

Thicker mulberry silk and real metal zari. The weight is what makes the drape hold its shape.

Can a wedding guest wear one?

Yes, and in South Indian families it is the expected thing. Guests usually choose lighter colours and leave the deep reds and golds to the bride.