It is no secret that women are in awe of tissue silk sarees. However, one thing that bothers them is the price. The question – why are tissue silk sarees so expensive – is always looming inside their head. If you are also one of those that is seeking an answer for this, then you have come to the right place. In this article, we will discuss why tissue silk sarees are so expensive and whether the prices are justified or not.
Why Are Tissue Silk Sarees So Expensive?
The simple answer to why tissue silk sarees are expensive lies in the fact that they are made of premium silk, metallic zari, intricate weaving, and labor-intensive production process. Being said that, Banarasi tissue silk sarees require several days to week to complete. The timeline is based on design complexity, which makes it much more than just a fashion product.
What Makes Tissue Silk Different from Other Sarees?
Before getting into the price discussion, let us briefly talk about what makes tissue silk different from other sarees.
Tissue silk is an elegant combination of fine silk yarn, metallic zari threads, lightweight structure, and visual appeal. It has the ability of reflecting light while also maintaining the richness of traditional silk. For all these reasons, tissue silk sarees have emerged as the go-to choice for weddings, receptions, and other celebrations.
If you are someone new to this fabric, it is always better to understand What is Tissue Silk first, before getting into the factors that influence its value. Here are some of the specialties of tissue silk saree.
What Is the Specialty of Tissue Silk Saree?
The characteristics of tissue silk saree is what makes it so special. It combines elegance, tradition, and comfort into one fabric. Being said that, the key features of tissue silk saree include lightweight, shimmer, rich heritage, versatility, and timeless appeal.
- Lightweight Luxury
Many silk sarees are heavy. But with tissue silk saree that is not the case. Along with elegance they also offer a lightweight wear.
- Distinctive Shimmer
The zari work on the saree is unmatched and unique. It creates a subtle glow that makes the overall look much more appealing.
- Rich Heritage
Tissue silk sarees are rooted into Indian heritage. It is crafted using centuries old weaving techniques.
- Versatility
There is nothing like tissue silk saree when it comes to versatility. From weddings to receptions, religious ceremonies and cultural events, and other festivities, tissue silk saree fits every occasion.
- Timeless Appeal
Trends in the fashion industry change every week. However, the love for silk sarees has remained the same for decades and it will continue to be the same going forward.
The Cost of Pure Silk
Pure silk is expensive. The material itself is one of the biggest contributors towards the price of tissue silk saree. Being said that, authentic silk production requires silk cultivation, yarn processing, quality control, and skilled handling.
Synthetic alternatives, those made from polyester and artificial silk, are cheaper. This is why one can see why premium silk sarees are priced differently compared to imitation products in the market.
Intricate Zari Work Adds Significant Value
The intricate zari work is another factor that contributes towards the price significantly. Notably, traditional silk sarees incorporate intricate metallic zari threads throughout the weaving process. Being said that, intricate zari motifs require design planning, technical expertise, precision weaving, and more production time. More details require more effort, which directly contributes towards the price of the finished product.
Handloom Weaving Requires Time and Skill
Traditional tissue silk sarees are handloom saree and therefore it cannot be compared with machine-made products. Of course, machines can make sarees more quickly and consistently. But they are nowhere near the beauty offered through handloom weaving. The handloom artisan carefully creates each motif, borders, and other design elements through manual weaving. Several days are spent on one saree, which also gets reflected into the final price of the product.
The Human Skill Behind Every Saree
It is not just the fabric that you are purchasing when buying an authentic tissue silk saree. You are investing in craftsmanship, artisan expertise, cultural heritage, and generations of weaving knowledge.
In Banaras, for instance, weaving is not just a profession. It is a tradition which passed down from one generation to another. It has been the case for the last several centuries and will continue to remain the same for many more to come.
Why Banarasi Tissue Silk Sarees Command Premium Prices?
Go anywhere in the world and ask what Banaras is famous for. One thing that you will always hear is Banarasi silk sarees. In the textile sector, Banarasi tissue silk sarees hold a special place. Being said that, there are many factors that contribute towards their premium value. Heritage weaving techniques, detailed motifs, silk and zari combination, limited production, and exclusivity are the reasons why Banarasi tissue silk sarees command a premium price.
Why Cheap Tissue Silk Sarees May Not Be the Same
There is often a misconception that all tissue silk sarees are the same. However, there are stark differences between an authentic tissue silk saree and the one made using machines or artificial silk. Therefore, before you make the purchase decision, it is better to understand How to Identify a Real Tissue Silk Saree.
Are Tissue Silk Sarees Worth the Price?
Tissue silk saree is not just a piece of fabric. It withholds centuries old weaving techniques and craftsmanship. There is nothing like tissue silk sarees as they offer elegance, beauty, and a piece of Indian heritage. Unlike trend-driven fashion products, premium handloom tissue silk sarees are passed down from one generation to another. This, for many, is priceless.
Why Trust JDS Banaras?
JDS Banaras, for over a century, has been offering premium Banarasi silk sarees to customers in India and overseas. It has been at the center stage when it comes to preserving the heritage of Banarasi weaving.
JDS Banaras has employed skilled people with deep knowledge of silk craftsmanship and traditional weaving process. This allows JDS Banaras to offer premium silk sarees to its customers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are tissue silk sarees so expensive?
The simple answer to why tissue silk sarees are expensive lies in the fact that they are made of premium silk, metallic zari, intricate weaving, and labor-intensive production process
What is the specialty of tissue silk saree?
The characteristics of tissue silk saree is what makes it so special. It combines elegance, tradition, and comfort into one fabric
Are tissue silk sarees made from pure silk?
It is not always necessary. There are some products which make use of blended fabrics while being marketed as tissue silk.
Why is Banarasi tissue silk costly?
It is not just the fabric that you are purchasing when buying an authentic tissue silk saree. It is an investment made in craftsmanship, artisan, heritage, and unparalleled weaving knowledge.
Are tissue silk sarees worth buying?
There is nothing like tissue silk sarees as they offer elegance, beauty, and a piece of Indian heritage.
Does zari increase the cost of tissue silk sarees?
Zari detailing is an integral part of tissue silk saree. Therefore, it does affect the price of the product.
How long does it take to weave a Banarasi tissue silk saree?
Based on the design and complexity, Banarasi tissue silk saree can take several days to week to complete.
Why are handloom tissue silk sarees more expensive than machine-made sarees?
Handloom sarees include detailed craftsmanship and weaving processes that machine-made products cannot replicate.
Can cheap tissue silk sarees be authentic?
There is no surety of this, as cheap tissue silk sarees are generally made of synthetic materials and using machines.
Where can I buy authentic Banarasi tissue silk sarees?
Lookout for stores that have been selling Banarasi tissue sarees for decades, not just years. They are usually the safest option.
