Latest Kalamkari Saree Trends, Types and Designs in 2023

Kalamkari is a meticulous and revered Indian art form that holds an indelible place in the hearts of saree admirers. Its timeless appeal has remained constant through the ages. Today, these splendid Kalamkari sarees are available in various colours and designs. Join us on a fascinating journey through the enduring allure of Kalamkari sarees through time.

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Latest Kalamkari Saree Types and Designs 

Kalamkari sarees are emerging with the latest styles and trends day-to-day. The following are some popular Kalamkari saree designs and types. 

1. Kalamkari Silk Sarees

Kalamkari silk sarees are a mesmerising fusion of luxurious silk fabric and Kalamkari artistry. Kalamkari silk sarees have intricate miniature paintings of mythological tales on the saree pallu. They are best suited for various occasions, from weddings to festive celebrations.

Take a look at other silk varieties and stunning silk sarees made from them.

2. Kalamkari Cotton Sarees

Kalamkari cotton saree is a harmonious blend of art and comfort. Kalamkari cotton sarees feature hand-drawn distinctive designs, made with natural colours. Cotton kalamkari sarees are the most comfortable and breathable. They are best suited to wear in humid or warm climates.

3. Kalamkari Kerala Sarees

The artistry of Kalamkari designs is beautifully merged with the grace of Kerala sarees. Golden white Kerala sarees are decorated with kalamkari designs and motifs. This Kalamkari saree type is a cultural masterpiece that can be worn for any celebration.

Find the latest festive saree collections from Tulsi Silks for your upcoming festivals and celebrations.

4. Printed Kalamkari Sarees

Printed Kalamkari saree types offer a fusion of tradition and contemporary fashion. Printed Kalamkari sarees are woven with intricate motifs like floral designs, temple architecture and Buddha figures. Printed Kalamkari sarees are a trendy choice among young people due to their modernistic approach.

5. Kalamkari Designer Sarees

The Kalamkari designer saree is adorned with sequins and stonework that will outshine your elegance. Designers often blend traditional Kalamkari motifs with abstract art and geometric patterns in vibrant colours owing to the grandeur look of the sarees. 

6. Bordered Kalamkari Sarees

Kalamkari border sarees are timeless elegance with artfully woven motifs and designs on the border. Add some spice to your everyday wardrobe by pairing Kalamkari-bordered sarees with matching blouses.

For a brand new look this year, discover the latest saree trends and upcoming designs from Tulsi Silks.

7. Hand Painted Kalamkari sarees

Hand-painted Kalamkari saree types are complicated and take days and weeks to make a single saree. A hand-printed kalamkari saree is an exquisite piece of art handwoven and coloured with natural colours. This elegant piece is a must-have in your wardrobe.

8. Organza Kalamkari Sarees

Organza Kalamkari saree types are known for their ethereal beauty and airy texture with hand-painted and block-printed motifs. They are a splendid combination of sheer, lightweight organza fabric and intricate Kalamkari artwork.

Make a fashion statement with the beautiful Kora and Organza silk sarees.

9. Chanderi Kalamkari  Sarees

Chanderi is a lightweight fabric known for its fine texture and subtle sheen. When blended with the Kalamkari saree design they appear vibrant and luminous. Chanderi Kalamkari saree types are woven with pure silk and cotton yarn, adding sophistication and charm to your ensemble.

10. Pen Kalamkari  Sarees

Unlike the traditional hand-painted kalamkari saree design, the pen kalamkari saree allows for precise detailing and fine lines in the artwork. These sarees feel opulent and add aesthetic beauty when you wear them.

Drape this beautiful Kalamkari saree with our guide on different saree draping techniques and styles. 

What is Kalamkari Art?

The word Kalamkari is a combination of two Persian words: Kalam means pen & Kari means craftsmanship, reflecting the technique's use of hand-drawn motifs and patterns. Despite its recent popularity, Kalamkari art has an impressive history of 3,000 years dating back to the Mughal era. This ancient and traditional Kalamkari art involves a tiresome process comprising 23 steps including bleaching, cleaning, hand-painting, starching, and other tasks.

Kalamkari sarees are made by hand-painting or block-printing designs on fabrics like silk and cotton. They are renowned for their craftsmanship, vibrant colours and intricate detailing. Kalamkari saree types have motifs of flowers, peacocks, trees and divine characters from Hindu mythologies like the Mahabharata and Ramayana.

Curious to know about other saree artworks? Explore the traditional artwork of Bandhani silk sarees.

Kalamkari Origin

Centuries ago, Kalamkari art found its roots when folklore and singers wandered far and wide to share the captivating tales of Hindu mythologies and deities. Over time, these narratives gradually found their way onto fabrics and textiles, giving birth to the exquisite art form of India - the Kalamkari art.

During the Mughal era, Kalamkai art flourished in the Golconda and Coromandel provinces by skilled craftsmen. Throughout history, it made its way to the present-day states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, now being the primary hubs for the production of these splendid Kalamkari sarees.

Would you like to know about the rich history of other saree types? Start with the history of the Kanjivaram silk saree with our blog. 

Kalamkari Art Styles

Kalamkari art has two main styles: The Srikalahasti and the Machilipatnam style. Let’s take a closer look at them. 

Srikalahasti Style

In this style, artists use a pen-like tool called a "kalam" to create intricately hand-drawn designs on the fabric. These designs often depict scenes from Hindu mythology, nature and floral patterns. Fabrics are painted with natural colours derived from plant extracts and minerals.

Machilipatnam Style

This Kalamkari saree design involves block-printing intricate patterns onto the fabric using hand-carved wooden blocks. After printing, the designs are further detailed using "kalam" for fine outlining and shading. The Machilipatnam style typically features Persian and Mughal-inspired motifs.

Indulge in the beauty of Tulsi silk sarees! Shop from our wide selection of Kalamkari saree collections and make a statement wherever you go.

How to Care for Kalamkari sarees

Here are some tips on how to wash and maintain Kalamkari sarees

• Hand washing is the gentlest method of cleaning Kalamkari sarees.
• Before the first wash, pre-soak your Kalamkari saree for 15-20 minutes in a bucket of cold water with a tablespoon of salt. This helps set the colours and minimises the risk of discolouration.
• Rinse the saree in cold water until all the detergents are removed.
• After rinsing, gently press the excess water from the saree by patting it with a clean, dry towel. Do not wring or twist the fabric, as this can damage the prints.
• Hang the saree in a shaded area away from direct sunlight. Sunlight can fade colours over time.
• Store your Kalamkari saree in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
• To protect the prints, place a thin cotton or muslin cloth between the saree and the iron. Iron the reverse side of the saree on low to medium heat.
• Periodically change the folds of your saree to prevent creases over time.

With that, we've explored different types of Kalamkari sarees, each with its charm and elegance. Whether you seek the regal allure of Pen Kalamkari silk saree or the grace of hand-painted Kalamkari saree types, there's a Kalamkari saree for every taste and occasion. 

Wrap yourself in the beauty of Kalamkari sarees types and designs. Discover the newest Kalamkari saree collection in your nearby stores or browse online shops for an exquisite selection of original Kalamkari sarees. Celebrate the rich tapestry of Indian heritage and culture by gifting yourself an alluring Kalamkari saree from Tulsi silks.

Tulsi Silks is one of the best saree shops in Chennai renowned for selling original and pure silk sarees. There is a huge collection of sarees to choose from, including bridal, organza, linen, cotton sarees and much more at Tulsi Silks. From special occasions to daily wear, our sarees reflect your personality and roots. Wrap yourself in elegance with silk sarees from Tulsi Silks. Don't miss out on these perfect sarees for any occasion. Explore our exclusive collection today!