A bridal Kanjivaram is chosen once and remembered forever, so it is worth knowing what you are looking at.
Start with the silk. A true Kanjivaram is woven from mulberry silk, usually three-ply, which gives it its weight and its famous lustre. Hold the saree up to the light: the colour should shift gently as the fabric moves.
Look closely at the zari. Pure zari is silver thread coated with gold. It has a soft, warm glow rather than a bright metallic shine, and it ages beautifully.
Check the korvai join. In the finest pieces the border and body are woven separately and interlocked by hand. Turn the saree over — a clean, strong join along the border is the mark of a master weaver.
Choose colour for the ceremony. Reds, maroons and deep pinks remain the classic choice for the muhurat, while pastel and tissue Kanjivarams have become a favourite for the reception.
Finally, drape it before you decide. A bridal saree should feel regal but not heavy — you will be wearing it for many hours.
