Sarees are undoubtedly the most beautiful and versatile garment. Stunning, very feminine, a little dramatic, sensuous yet sober and graceful, only a saree can manage to deliver all this at the same time. Which is why the world is going gaga over this uber stylish garment. Not just this a saree has been there since ages, growing, evolving and competing with modern day dresses, it has still secured the top position. How amazing! Regular to ready to wear saree, the garment has come a long way.
From regular to pre-stitched drapes, a saree has truly evolved to cater to the modern busy world. But with this, there’s a little discussion buzzing around. We know you’re confused which one to choose. We have jotted down the pros and cons of both, for you to decide. Here’s a pre-stitched saree vs regular saree showdown. Let’s find out the winner.
Understanding the Regular Saree
A staple since ages, the regular saree is an unstitched six-yard garment. The beauty is that you can play with various styles. Drape it your style and dazzle but it does require practice and skilful draping in order to achieve the desired look.
Pros of A Regular Saree
- Versatility in Draping Styles: The regular saree is unstitched, so, you have plethora of drape style options to experiment with. One saree for all occasions and in such different styles, you won’t be able to tell if it’s the same piece you are flaunting. Which is why this one is a gem.
- An emotional saga: Your unstitched drape itself is a story. Passed down through generations, a regular saree preserves stories from generations. It beautifully preserves memories of drape struggle stories and chit chats which often sparked when a mother lovingly taught her daughter how to drape a saree.
- Customisation: One saree for all. Such is the beauty of a regular saree that women of all sizes and age groups can flaunt the same piece. No stitching and alteration required. Also, one can adjust the tightness, pleats and pallu length according to personal preference. Wonderful, isn’t it?
Cons of A Regular Saree
Despite so many virtues, a regular saree has a few drawbacks,
- Time-Consuming Draping Process: Running late? A regular saree usually takes 7 to 10 minutes to drape and that too with a lot of practice. A little challenging for busy schedules.
- Requires Practice: Practice makes one perfect. Saree is a perfect example. Practice, practice and practice till you master it which can be daunting for beginners.
- Potential for Slippage: You need to secure your saree tightly. If not, there’s a risk of the saree coming undone. A saree that’s not pinned properly and held secure is very uncomfortable and requires constant readjustment.
Introducing the ready to wear saree
A pre-stitched saree, also known as a ready-to-wear saree, comes as a boon for newcomers and busy ladies. Yes! it’s like a wish granted. Once you fall in love with a saree, you would want to wear it all the time. With a regular saree and a hectic work schedule, it becomes a little challenging. The pre-stitched sarees have made it possible. The pleats and pallu are pre-stitched, allowing it to be worn like a skirt and voila you’re done. No need to spend hours practicing!
Pros of a ready to wear saree
- Ease of Wearing: You can literally wear this in just a few seconds, and hence the name 1-minute saree. It gets you minute ready in a saree.
- Consistent Appearance: It looks uniform. The pleats are perfect and even, so you don’t need to worry about mismanaged pleats. You can even run in a saree and it won’t buzz.
- Ideal for Beginners: Perfect for newcomers as you don’t need to practice. Put on like a skirt and get going!
- No Need for Additional Undergarments: Many pre-stitched sarees come with an attached petticoat. So, you don’t need an underskirt.
- Sarees With Pockets: Some 1-minute sarees come with pockets. So, you don’t need to carry a handbag to keep your essentials handy. Your saree can accommodate all and get you sorted.
Cons of a ready to wear saree
Well, though at first thought the minute saree appears to be a wish answered, yet on a deeper note, it has a few seroius downsides. Let’s know!
- Limited Draping Styles: It’s not a one saree for all. Since, the regular saree is versatile with so many drape options, your love will only grow whereas with a pre-stitched one you can get easily bored after a few shots.
- Sizing Issues: Since these beauties are tailored to specific measurements, finding the perfect fit can be a daunting task.
- Cultural Disconnect: Some people do believe that saree is an emotion and the essence lies in the draping process, which definitely is lost with pre-stitched versions. The versatility is lost and hence it cannot be preserved as a legacy, passed down through generations as it might not cater to contemporary style.
The Comparison
- Convenience: Pre-stitched sarees offer unparalleled convenience. These are great for working women and beginners. The pre-draped saree with pockets is magical. On the other hand, the classic regular saree takes time, requires skill but can be preserved as a legacy for generations.
- The Ultimate Time-saver: Your pre-stitched saree is a life saver when you’re running late. The regular saree is time consuming.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Both the sarees look equally wonderful, but the regular saree has the advantage of drape style experimentation and fit adjustment. It can look a little better than its pre-draped counterpart. The ready-to-wear saree can be monotonous and a little ill-fitted, which definitely shows.
- Occasion Suitability: The regular saree can adapt to any occasion. Modern event? Drape it with trousers or try a contemporary drape style. For traditional events, go for Nivi drape, seedha palla, lehenga style, drape it with a flared skirt and the list goes on. With a pre-draped saree, you’re stuck with one style.
Who is the Ultimate Winner?
Now that we know the pros and cons of both the sarees, both stand strong with their list of virtues. It only depends on the personal preference of the wearer and the occasion. If time is not a constraint and you prefer tradition, versatility, and personalisation, the regular saree is unmatched. However, if you are looking for convenience, ease of draping, and a quick yet solution, the pre-stitched saree emerges as a strong contender.
To wrap up, both styles are great. Understand your preference well and invest in a piece that suits your requirements. Drape your style topped with confidence and a radiant smile!
