Don’t you think your saree collection is worthless if you don’t have a Dhakai Jamdani Saree there? Because the saree is an integral part of Asian culture and heritage. Worn by women of all ages not only from South Asia but also around the world. The Dhakai Jamdani saree is an extremely popular saree known for its intricate weave and beautiful designs along with its golden history.
Jamdani has been actually considered to be a festive outfit before Mughal Era. Due to having jari works and festive weaving vibes, it was also used for wedding dresses. Recently, It has become popular as a festive or wedding dress like Kurtis, ghagra-choli, dupatta, and all.
Jamdani sarees were typically white or off-white in color, with colorful designs woven into the fabric. But now it has the most exquisite color palette to choose from. The designs are often floral or geometric in nature. But in this revolutionary era, it has much more variety too.
Writing about Dhaka Jamdani will create a shortage of pages. So we’ve tried to gather some most important information about this masterpiece.
What is Dhakai jamdani Saree?
Jamdani is a form of muslin. Only this type of muslin or we can say the shadow of muslin is available right now. Mainly Jamdani was used as festive wear or wedding dresses. An extraordinary type of floral pattern embodied with glittery threads woven by human hands set Jamdani apart from any other fabrics.
Jamdani is the richest fabric with these kinda gorgeous embroideries from the Mughal period to this era. This incredible beauty has been produced for decades in South Rupshi of Narayanganj district in Bangladesh. Which is on the bank of the Shitalakhwa river.
Types of Dhakai jamdani sarees
Bangladeshi Dhakai Jamdani sarees are a bit pricy. To make some variety and a bit affordable price textile industry has changed the Jamdani weaving game. Still, the hand-weaving process is determined to be the masterpiece but there are lots of variety raised over time.
The Dhakai Jamdani Saree comes in various styles and designs. It includes beaded, embroidered, patchwork, etc. The design of the Dhakai Jamdani Saree mainly depends on the region it is produced in.
Let’s know about the differences-
1. Dhakai Jamdani
Dhakai Jamdani Saree is mainly the primitive hand-woven Jamdani Saree that originated in Dhaka, Bangladesh. The intricate design and delicate weaving process make it impeccable. It is the shadow of the original muslin jamdani from primitive times. The Dhakai Jamdani Saree is an essential piece of a women’s wardrobe, suitable for all occasions.
2. Tangail Jamdani Saree
Tangail jamdani saree originated in Tangail. Its located in the Dhaka division, Driving a distance of 96 kilometers.
After the British people cut off the fingers of Muslin weavers, some of them and their inheritors came and were based in Santosh, Delduar, and Gharinda under Tangail. With their visual experience and hereditary skills, they made Tangail jamdani saree. This is very well textured and it has 100 counts of threads. It is made on different types of cotton fabrics depending on price. Like half silk, full silk, half cotton fine cotton, nylon, and many more.
Duria, Butidar, Pannahazar, Jhalar, Dubli Jal, and many more patterns are present in the Tangail jamdani saree.
3. Shantipuri Jamdani
Though jamdani has roots in Bangladesh there are some other weavers in West Bengal India. They weave jamdani which is specially called Shantipuri Jamdani. Shantipur is located in Nadia West Bengal and was constructed by Raja Krishna Chandra.
In early Indian textile history, Shantipur was the motherland of handloom fabrics from West Bengal. Shantipuri jamdani saree is similar to Tangail Jamdani Saree. It has dazzling patterns and motives which are completely handwoven with glittery or zari threats. Most of the time, these jamdani sarees are waved on cotton fabrics.
4. Dhaniakhali Jamdani
Dhaniakhali Jamdani also originated in Hoogly, Kolkata, India. But it’s different from Tangail or Shantipuri Jamdani. Dhaniakhali Jamdani saree has a tighter weave compared to Tangail or Santipuri Saree. The main difference is, Dhaniakhali Jamdanis are bright which is contrasted with dark and bold color border and anchal.
5. Soft Dhakai Jamdani Sari
Authentic Dhakai Jamdani is completely starched or semi-starched. That’s why they are hard. This kind of Jamdani is specially invented to reduce or remove this rough feeling.
There are few treatments that reduce the roughness of Jamdani. The weavers now making starch-free Dhakai jamdani that is not stiff. They are very easy to wear and very lightweight. Not disturbing with itching or tuck with the petticoat.
This super-soft Jamdani is high in demand. Especially festive soft yellow jamdani and trendy red are very popular around the world. This soft jamdani needs dry cleaning.
Color of Dhakai Jamdani
Jamdani sarees come in a wide range of colors, from traditional hues to bright, modern shades. Whether you’re looking for a common color or something more uncommon, you’ll find the perfect jamdani that matches your personality.
Just make sure one thing before buying online getting the same color as the cart view. Because touch n feel or attractive image only online might not satisfy your thirst!
Let’s explore some popular and trendy colors from the world of Dhakai jamdani –
Festive Colors
Jamdani sarees are the best to wear on festive occasions like wedding functions. You can find a wide range of options online. From a wide variety of colors, patterns, and fabrics. These are very vibrant, popular, and perfect for festivals. You can wear them on Weddings, Haldi, Mehendi, Eid, Invitations, puja, and many more.
- Trendy Red.
- Festive Yellow.
- Partywear Black.
- Golden.
- Emerald green.
- Maroon.
- Burnt Orange.
- Magenta.
- Teal.
Formal Colors
Whether you’re looking for a Dhakai jamdani for a special occasion or just want for formal events, these are a great option. While they can be expensive, definitely worth your money, heritage & lifestyle.
You can wear these colors in the office, during business meetings, at college presentations, or any formal event.
- Baby pink.
- Mint green.
- White.
- Lavender.
- Turquoise Blue.
- Grey.
- Butter Yellow.
Casual colors
Dhakai jamdani sari is popular for its elegance & evergreen modern designs. These are suitable for any time of the day. you can wear these casual colors on tours, picnics, and kitty parties, even if you are picking up your child from school.
- Coral.
- Parrot green.
- Purple.
- Sea Green.
- Bottle Green.
- Royal Blue.
- Peach.
- Ash blue.
- Black.
Dhakai Jamdani making process
Dhakai Jamdani sarees are often considered to be the height of Bangladeshi elegance. It takes 3 months to a year, sometimes even more to weave 6 yards of jamdani.
It is made with a cotton warp and weft, and the patterns are created using an additional weft technique. The artisans can be determined as a magician as the full saree is totally made by hand. Nowadays some people try to use brocade loom but hand over muslin jamdani saree is beyond amazing.
The nature of weaving Muslin jamdani is kind of fragile that’s why it needs a perfect whether which is the bank of the Shitalakkha river. Seasonal monsoon is the best time.
Jamdani was called white gold because in ancient times the actual color of jamdani was the white color. Then dyed specific colors to get the expected colorful fabric & Saree.
Now readymade cotton and polyester yarns are available in the market. Weavers can buy the basic colors of yarn in kg. This has been a very time-saving opportunity for them. Other than they have to dye the yarn into their desired color.
After cutting and dying the yarn, their day starts with reciting the guru mantra. This is considered a tradition to recall God and their ancestors. The dye process might require a few chemicals. Now Jamdani can be dyed even Organically.
Jamdani loom is made of bamboo wood and the in charge of the loom is the master weaver. He conceals, joins, and merges the yarn to make the fabric flawless.
The way a master weaver operated the paddle-operated loom is integral to the final texture and pattern produced. The time of finishing depends on the complexity of the design. It takes 3 months to 1 year to make a piece of jamdani depending on the weavers’ skills.
After finishing 9 inches of fabric then they start starching it and this repeats till finishing. At last, they cut the saree from the roll and fold it for sale in the market.
Dhakai jamdani- A handmade tale
The supremacy of Dhaka jamdani is beyond imagination. In the international market, Dhakai jamdani gaining popularity. Nowadays in western countries handcrafted or handmade pieces are expensive. Whereas handloom Dhakai jamdani is way cheaper in comparison.
From collecting cotton, making threads, dying, and cutting even the spinning is fully handmade. Weavers set or pin every thread with their hands.
Where women make rice starch on the stove by themselves and apply them with their hands. It is just a village system to dry them hanging and on the rope.
The full process is just the magic of the Weavers’ hand. They have magic wand-like fingers. They use them like a magic spell. Unfortunately, They don’t get enough patronage which will encourage the next generation to continue this supreme legacy.
What to see in the original Dhakai Jamdani
Is there any woman who doesn’t want an original Dhakai Jamdani in her collections? But there are many varieties and fake products on market.
Let’s know about some factors which you should check before buying the original Dhakai jamdani :
Fabric– Dhakai Jamdani was not only famous for its intricate design but also for its fabric. Many textiles have created jamdanis printed or cotton loomed in budget. But you won’t get the actual worth of handmade Dhakai jamdani.
Thread count– if you want to choose the finest Jamdani you have to know about the thread count. You will get different grades of jamdani saree available in shops. But the pure handmade original Dhakai jamdani must start from 80 + counts of threads. This determines good quality jamdani. Till 300 thread count can we consider the best Dhakai jamdani.
Back Part– Original Dhakai saree has its own traits. The most unique part of these sarees is they are woven with 1 line threads. That’s why the back part is so smooth to touch and comfortable. You can make the drapes easily. Fake ones have cut threads which will cause you itching.
Lightweight & Soft– As we all know Dhakai saree is one of the types of Muslin, so it has some of Muslin’s traits. Muslin was so lightweight and soft that you could fold it and keep it in a matchbox. Jamdani is not that much softer but it’s very lightweight and softer than many other fabrics.
Muslin Dhakai Jamdani
There is no doubt that Muslin was one of the greatest creations by human hands. While the textile industry has become technology-based till now no one can make ancient Muslin or a shadow of that. Jamdani is the only shadow by which we get a hue of Muslin.
Roman author Petronius named Dhakai Jamdani Saree “Woven Air”. The fabric is flying in the Air! You can go through pages of Bengal history. Get to know jamdani was famous by the name of “White gold of Bengal”.
Ancient Muslin didn’t come in lots of varieties. It had a very calm and subtle nature. The colors were very eye-soothing and sophisticated. Jamdani was one of the varieties of Muslin. It was the only type of Muslin that could be dyed in vibrant colors. Not only colors but also they came up with a festival look and gorgeous shiny thread works.
Jamdani has different and fascinating motifs. In the Mughal era without Muslin jamdani, any wedding or festival seemed to be incomplete. In many historical artworks, we can see royal women and emperors wearing muslin dhakai jamdani for special events or festivals.
Accessories with Muslin Dhakai Jamdani
While the Dhakai Jamdani sarees are already stunning on their own, you can enhance your look by choosing the right accessories. For example, If you want a more ethnic look, you can opt for traditional clothing ways. Whatever your style, there are plenty of ways to accessorize your Dhakai Jamdani saree to create a look that is uniquely you.
Waist belt
You can make a contrasting waist belt with your jamdani saree, which helps to accentuate the wearer’s figure. Dhakai Jamdani sari is perfect for any special occasion. A nice waist belt can add ever-green elegance which surely makes you stand out from the crowd.
Jewelry
When pairing a Dhakai Jamdani saree with jewelry, it is important to choose pieces that will complement the saree’s intricate designs. A gold or silver statement necklace and a pair of earrings can add a touch of luxury, while still allowing the saree to be the star of the show.
Clutch bag
The saree is often worn with a traditional potli, or clutch bag, which completes the look. The Dhakai Jamdani saree is a popular choice for special occasions, as it is both aristocratic and timeless. So make this a step fashion-forward and choose the right bag.
A shawl or Scarf
A shawl or scarf can be a great accessory for these Dhakai sarees, as it can add a touch of luxury and sophistication. When choosing a shawl or scarf, it is important to consider the color and pattern of the saree. A matching shawl or scarf can really make a Jamdani saree pop and help you to stand out!
Brooches and pins
Brooches and pins can be a great accessory for any outfit, but they are particularly well-suited for Dhakai Jamdani sari. Wearing a brooch or pin can add a touch of elegance to your look.
Eye-catchy footwear
Generally, sarees are traditionally worn with heels or semi heels, so your Jamdani can also be paired with eye-catching and stylish footwear.
Bangles
If you’re looking to accessorize your Dhakai Jamdani saree, consider pairing it with matching bangles. Bangles are a traditional Indian accessory, and they can help to add a touch of fashion to your outfit. It is a must-have accessory that enhances your beauty.
Bindi
Bindis are a traditional Indian accessory that is worn by girls on the forehead. They are usually made of colorful felt and are often decorated with jewels or other embellishments. You can add a bit of spice and modernity to your Jamdani saree by wearing matching bindis.
Jamdani Blouse Styles
Today blouses are just not a piece of body con to worn underneath sarees. A nice design blouse ( a special types of tops for women) can complement your jamdani sari exquisitely.
Let’s explore the ways that mix traditional and modern styles according to body shape and other things –
If you want to wear a saree in a traditional way, you can also pair it with a traditional blouse. Traditional blouses are the safest choice because they are being used for decades. There are many types of traditional blouse styles you can opt for. Jamdani sarees are nearly transparent you can wear a hip-length blouse so that your belly area won’t be visible.
You can also wear the back neck with small ruffles on the neck and sleeves. Puffy sleeves are also popular. You can wear full Sleeve blouses that come with your saree. You can add matching lace or ruffles of other colors.
A well-designed matching or contrast blouse can change your look. But every modern style doesn’t suit every body shape. If you have a wide shoulder you can carry off-shoulder, layered off the shoulder, high neck, ruffle sleeve, ruffle neck, deep neck with puff sleeves, illusion neck, semi ruffles, corset style, off the shoulder with ruffles sleeves, halter neck.
If you have a petite body you can try one shoulder, scallop neck, cutwork high neck, boat neck full sleeve with Ruffles, cold shoulder crop blouse, v neck.
If you want a fusion look mixing up traditional and modern styles then you can try peplum style blouses which are long in length and flare from the waistline. The v neck and the high-volume flares will take your jamdani to another level.
You can also come up with an illusion high neck with a full sleeve, Victorian-style high neck blouse, traditional blouse with mesh sleeves, cap sleeve, backless, or fringes. So, just determine your body shape, & style, and make collections of the best blouse that makes you star at the event!
How to Maintain the saree
Saree will make you attractive and different from others. But honestly, it is a complicated attire. A 6.5 gauge long fabric you have to wear with proper draping. For western people is a kind of an OMG situation. But the truth is you can wear and maintain a saree very smoothly if you wear it properly.
Let’s know about some tricks and tips on how to maintain your jamdani saree like a pro –
- Try to use a cotton petticoat so that you feel comfortable.
- Tie or knot while you are starting the saree wearing and tucking it in your petticoat.
- Make your pleats in the same size and equality distributed.
- Try to use a safety pin to pin your pleats so that if you are wearing your saree for a day-long, it won’t move a bit.
- It’s important to wear heels if you are wearing a saree. Because using heel shoes, your sari will not get entangled in your feet.
- Tuck your anchal in the right position using a safety pin.
- If you are bulky just use a fishtail petticoat that will help you to look thinner.
- Try to use smaller safety pins so that it doesn’t show out. It can be embarrassing for you if your safety pin is visible.
Beauty Tips
You can wear a Dhakai saree to any formal or festive event. Just you have to determine your style according to your event. Try to get a look that goes with your personality and event.
You can wear a Bengali-style saree with a bindi on the forehead and a handful of bangles. You can wear a “Gajra” in your hair bun which will be charry on the top. It is always safe to play to stick to the traditional style. You can wear a piece of waist jewelry that will enhance your look.
The traditional draping style can be a good choice. It can a good tip if you choose different looks for folded and unfolded pallu. If you unfold your pallu, have a traditional hair bun with Gajra. Wear a pair of long Earrings, with no necklace. You wear a small bindi with a nice bracelet and a big ring on your finger.
For the folded pallu, you can wear a big or long necklace with a small or medium jhumkas, and a handful of bangles. Leave your hair open or half curled.
If you want some unconventional looks try Gujrati, Dhoti style, Nauvari Saree draping, South Indian style Saree Draping, and The Long-Train Pallu Saree Trends.
How to Customize/ design Saree
Jamdani saree has its own properties and beauty. The intricate design of these sarees is impeccable and unique. But if you want to set yourself apart from others then you can customize your own jamdani adding some extra embellishments.
- You can add tassels end of the anchal matching or contrast with your saree.
- Attach some lace to the end of the border of the saree which will enhance the beauty of your piece.
- At some cutwork on the chest area or anchal area.
- You can hand paint your saree with some fabric paint and draw some custom designs on your jamdani.
- Add some Golden beads or pearls or some stones or any small embellishments all over the saree and you will get a perfect and unique piece.
FAQ
You need to go here & there to find general questions that come to your mind. We try to answer regular questions for your convenience. Still have any questions after that, just throw an email to Us!
1. Why Jamdani sarees are expensive?
Jamdani has a very Intricate and exquisite design. To make Jamdani requires extraordinary skills and immense patience. According to the complexity of designs, a jamdani saree requires 3 months to 1 year and it is fully handmade. That’s why it’s expensive.
2. Where is jamdani saree made?
Jamdani saree basically originated in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Weaving jamdani saree requires specific weather especially monsoon due to its fragile nature. That’s why Rupganj, bank of the Shitalakka river and Sonargaon, Narayanganj is the main center of jamdani.
3. What is Tangail jamdani?
In Tangail district, Bangladesh; some very skilled weavers make handloom Jamdani which is basically on cotton and comparatively affordable. This is called Tangail jamdani.
4. What is Shantipuri Jamdani?
Shantipur is located in Nadia, West Bengal, India. It is one of the prominent places for handloom fabrics. The jamdani saree made in Shantipur is called Shantipuri Jamdani. It is similar to Dhakai jamdani.
5. Is Jamdani silk or cotton?
Jamdani can be silk and cotton. But original authentic jamdani is on cotton fabric which has been present for decades.
6. Is the Dhakai jamdani sari transparent?
Authentic Dhakai jamdani is nearly transparent. As it is a part of Muslin, and we all know Muslin was too sheer to see through. Jamdani is not entirely transparent but it is nearly transparent.
Conclusion
Jamdani will make you feel more confident and elegant. Dhakai Jamdani Saree comes with a great history and still has that heritage.
So if you want to go for a safe outfit option then just go to the ethnic categories shop. Do your account login, select your favorite Dhakai Jamdani Sarees and make your account empty! Just buy it once and I guarantee you can’t get rid of it. So this is a clear win-win!
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