5 Sarees That Always Look Expensive

Annanya Saxena | Sep 09, 2025, 13:52 IST
Indian traditional saree
( Image credit : Unsplash )
Want sarees that look like they cost thousands? The secret lies in choosing the right fabrics and styling them well. Kanjivaram and Banarasi silks scream royalty, while Chanderi and Tussar bring subtle, natural richness. Handloom sarees showcase authentic craftsmanship that always feels luxurious. Paired with sharp draping, perfect blouses, and minimal jewelry, these sarees create timeless elegance. This article shows how five saree types guarantee a luxury look at weddings, festivals, or parties, without overspending.
Some sarees make you look rich even when bought from roadside shops. The secret isn't price tags but smart fabric picks and styling tricks. Research shows Kanjivaram silk is considered one of the most expensive saree types available but you can get that same luxury look with clever shopping.

Kanjivaram Silk Makes Everyone Look Royal

Kanjivaram saree
( Image credit : Freepik )

Kanjivaram comes from Tamil Nadu weavers who use pure mulberry silk threads. The thick heavy texture screams money even when you buy basic designs. . Every saree still looks brand new and gets compliments at every wedding."
The weight tells the story. Heavier silk means better quality and instant expensive appearance. Even Rs 8000 Kanjivaram looks more costly than Rs 25000 designer sarees in lighter fabrics.

How to style Kanjivaram for maximum rich look:

  • Pick contrasting blouse colors like red saree with green blouse
  • Skip heavy necklaces - let saree be the star
  • Drape pallu loose over left shoulder for royal effect
  • Wear big gold earrings only
  • Use safety pins to keep pleats razor sharp

Banarasi Silk Brings Mughal Palace Vibes

Banarsi silk saree
( Image credit : Pexels )

Banarasi sarees have detailed gold thread work that photographs like museum pieces. The brocade work makes me it look like someone spent Rs 40000 on it.
The intricate patterns catch light beautifully making even budget pieces shine like expensive ones.

Banarasi styling secrets:

  • Let gold work show - avoid jewelry that fights for attention
  • Pick solid silk blouses in deep colors
  • Drape to display maximum brocade area
  • Pair with antique gold pieces for authentic royal look
  • Iron gently to make gold threads sparkle

Chanderi Cotton Silk Gives Subtle Rich Look

Chanderi saree
( Image credit : Unsplash )

Chanderi mixes cotton with silk for lightweight luxury feel. The gentle shine creates expensive appeal without heavy weight. The fabric looks amazing in photos and people stay comfortable for 8-hour events.

Chanderi styling tips:

  • Choose jewel tones like deep purple or emerald green
  • Add contemporary silver jewelry for modern expensive look
  • Keep blouse simple in silk that matches or contrasts
  • Try shorter pallu draping for trendy style
  • Perfect for day events and work functions

Tussar Silk Shows Natural Expensive Texture

Tussar silk sarees
( Image credit : Freepik )

Tussar silk has golden natural color and rough texture that screams handmade luxury. People assume they cost way more than actual price.

Tussar styling essentials:

  • Love the irregular texture - that's what makes it look expensive
  • Match with handmade silver or brass jewelry
  • Try earthy blouse shades like rust or deep green
  • Drape casually for effortless rich appearance
  • Works best with natural makeup and simple hair

Handloom Cotton Silk Has Authentic Craft Appeal

Handloom silk saree
( Image credit : Unsplash )

Handloom sarees carry instant expensive taste because each piece shows real craftsmanship. Small irregularities prove they're handcrafted which people connect with luxury brands."

Handloom styling secrets:

  • Show off weave details with good lighting
  • Pick traditional jewelry matching craft heritage
  • Simple blouse lets saree craftsmanship shine
  • Learn saree story to share at parties
  • Combine with handmade bags and shoes

The Real Expensive Look Formula

Perfect draping beats high price every time. Expensive look comes from styling details not money spent."

Universal expensive appearance tricks:

  • Steam iron before wearing - wrinkles kill luxury appeal
  • Get blouses fitted properly with right cup support
  • Learn classic draping for timeless elegant look
  • Pick one statement piece - saree OR jewelry never both
  • Stand straight - confidence sells expensive better than brands

Smart Shopping That Actually Works

Buy one great piece yearly instead of multiple cheap ones. Quality fabrics last 20 years while cheap ones fade after few wears. Synthetic might look okay in pictures but feels cheap when worn. Your hands know quality better than your eyes."
Start with classic shades like deep red, royal blue or rich green. These colors photograph well and work for many occasions. Build collection slowly with pieces matching your skin tone and lifestyle needs.
The expensive look isn't about spending more money. It's about choosing right fabrics, perfecting your draping and styling with confidence. Your grandmother knew this secret, good sarees worn well always look costlier than they actually are.

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