The Craft
Behind every Alanche saree is a loom, a weaving family and a tradition that predates the machine by centuries. This is what you are wearing.
I
Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu
Woven from heavy mulberry silk, the Kanjivaram is known for its korvai technique, where body and border are woven separately and interlocked so firmly the join survives generations. Temple borders, checks and pure zari pallus are its signature.
II
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Mughal-inspired jaals, florals and paisleys are brocaded in gold and silver thread. In the kadhua method each motif is woven individually, leaving no loose floats behind, which makes it slow, exacting and prized.
III
Paithan, Bhagalpur & beyond
Paithani's peacock pallus, tussar's golden slub and the airy restraint of Chanderi. Regional weaves kept alive by small weaving clusters, each with a vocabulary of motifs passed from parent to child.
Drape guide
Begin at the navel. Tuck the plain end into the petticoat and wrap once around the waist, right to left.
Gather seven to nine even pleats, about five inches wide, holding them together at the top.
Tuck the pleats slightly left of the navel, facing left, and let them fall straight.
Take the remaining fabric around the back once more, bringing it across the front at hip level.
Pleat the pallu, lift it over the left shoulder and pin discreetly at the blouse to hold the fall.
Silk care
Dry clean only, with a specialist who handles zari. Never wring or machine wash.
Wrap in soft muslin, not plastic, and keep away from damp and direct sunlight.
Change the folds every few months so metallic threads don't crease and crack.
After wearing, air in shade before storing, and keep perfume away from the silk.