Source: Twogether Studios By Arjun & Praerna Kartha; Sabyasachi; Weva Photography

For every bride, having one (or more than one) designer saree in her trousseau is a must. They are, after all, the standing representative of Indian Heritage woven into a piece of clothing. In full honesty, if we were to use clothing to define a particular culture, it would be a gorgeous, scintillating saree. However, over the years, sarees have evolved from daily attire to a more enamouring occasionwear for people all over. And you know what's a step above the good old saree? A designer saree. 

Designer sarees are beautiful, there is no doubt in that. They come in two forms- pre draped (or more commonly known as concept sarees), and regular five to nine yards. However, there are a few things one must consider before purchasing these stunning pieces of clothing. 

Things To Consider Before Buying A Designer Saree

1. Learn & Understand How To Distinguish A Real From A Fake Designer Saree

One of the most vital understandings of a designer saree is whether it's a real or a fake. Obviously, if you are purchasing the saree from a reputable designer, who is selling their original design, then the saree is bound to be authentic. The problem arises when you're purchasing through an agent. The best way to prove something's authenticity is if the agent is an authorized seller of the said designer's outfits. The same problem arises when you're looking for a saree in a particular material. For brides, the most preferred saree material is pure silk. 

When it comes to the most elaborately decorated and finest silk bridal sarees we can highlight two key types: the Kanjivaram sarees and Banarasi sarees. While representing two different regions of India, these are the most common types of sarees worn by brides on their big day. In fact, Kanjivaram sarees are so unique that there are only 21 silk societies and ten weavers who are authorized to call their sarees by the name of Kanchipuram (or Kanjivaram) saree.

To distinguish the authenticity of a silk saree, all you have to do is look at the cost. A real Kanchipuram or Varanasi saree, if made out of pure silk, costs between 6500 to 40,000 Rupees, depending on the borders and the number of golden threads (zari) and other decoration elements used in the process. There are, however, cheaper versions, but they will never be pure and will always include another textile like cotton or polyester. 

2. Learn About The Seller

Buying your designer saree from a reputed designer house or designer themself is easy - You know you're paying the saree's worth. However, when buying designer saree from resellers, or online platforms, the risks can always be high. Right now, there are a lot of sellers both online and offline who offer fakes for considerably higher prices. It is important to know the history and authenticity of the seller. 

Therefore, always make sure to buy from a trusted seller, whose customer service works perfectly, who are fast in getting back to you whenever you have a question and who preferably use live chat on their website. It’s also essential to read reviews about the seller. Some of the most reputed online sellers of designer sarees include Aza Fashion, Pernia's Pop Up Shop, Aashni & Co. etc. 

3. Learn About The Designer Saree's Maintenance Beforehand

Every designer saree has a certain way of being maintained for longevity. From the material its made from to the kind of embroidery and other work done on the saree, every aspect has a certain way of maintenance. For example, pure silk saree is arguably amongst the finest, most beautiful and sensible materials in the world.

However, their maintenance is also demanding and special. When you buy a designer saree, you will want to preserve it for a special occasion. So make sure you have all that you need to keep your saree stored away properly. 

Also Read: 12 Hacks To Maintain Your Kanjeevaram Saree Post-Wedding

4. Order Your Designer Saree Well In Advance

The making and delivering of a quality handmade designer saree can take a longer time. Sometimes, it may even take months. We, therefore, strongly advise you to buy designer sarees it well in time. You can always consult with the designer to know the estimated time it may take to make and deliver the saree. 

5. Check The Quality Of Cloth

Buying a designer saree isn't just about what designer you buy, or what colour it is. It is also the material and quality of the cloth used to build it. Pay close attention to the quality of cloth and type of work that has been done on it. Never let the quality of the saree cloth ruin your experience of owning a designer saree. 

If you detect even the slightest tear or anything that were to indicate that the saree's quality is not good, don't invest in that because it's not worth it. Therefore, you must check the authenticity and quality of designer sari before you buy it. 

6. Always Check The Return Policy

Last but not least, if you're purchasing your designer saree from an online platform, ensure that you read and understand their return policy.

Sometimes, when you purchase something from online, the real product may not meet up to your expectations or may not look like exactly what you wanted. Therefore, choose a place that has a good exchange and return policy, just to be on the safe side. 

Are there any tips that you'd like to share before buying designer items? Let us know in the comments!

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