National Textile Day: 5 Indian textiles which are a must-buy

Celebrated every May 3, National Textile Day honours India’s centuries-old weaving heritage, from Varanasi’s silk brocades to Kashmir’s feather-light Pashmina. As we commemorate this year’s edition, why not invest in pieces that showcase our nation’s artisanal brilliance? Whether you are a seasoned collector or simply looking to elevate your everyday wardrobe, these five iconic Indian textiles, each steeped in regional tradition and handcrafted excellence, are must-haves for any discerning fashion lover.

Origin: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Why you need it today: Banarasi silk is synonymous with luxury. Handwoven on pit looms using pure Katan silk and real zari (gold or silver threads), these sarees feature Mughal-inspired motifs - jhallar (leaf borders), butidar (scattered floral butis), and intricate jaal work (all-over brocade). Each Banarasi can take 15 days to six months to complete, making it a true labor of love.

Styling tip: Pair a jewel-toned Banarasi saree with minimal gold jhumkas and a sleek bun to let the fabric’s richness shine.
Care: Dry-clean only; store in muslin cloth to protect the zari.

Origin: Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu
Why you need it today: Known for its vibrant colour contrasts and bold “temple” borders, Kanjivaram silk is woven from pure Mulberry silk and heavy gold zari. Each saree boasts motifs like peacocks, parrots, and temple gopurams on the pallu and borders.

Styling tip: Drape in a classic pleated style with statement temple jewelry and a gajra (flower garland) in your hair for an authentic South Indian look.
Care: Dry-clean only; wrap in the original cotton cover to avoid moisture.
Origin: Chanderi, Madhya Pradesh
Why you need it today: Chanderi’s ethereal charm comes from its sheer blend of silk, cotton, and zari. The fabric’s diaphanous weave and lightweight feel make it perfect for India’s humid summers.
Key motifs: Geometric patterns, stylized floral butis, and Maheshwari double ikat.
Styling tip: Transform a Chanderi saree into a breezy daytime ensemble by pairing it with a sleeveless blouse and understated pearl jewellery.

Care: Gentle hand-wash in cold water or mild dry-clean; air-dry in shade.

Origin: Pochampally, Telangana
Why you need it today: Pochampally’s double-ikat is a marvel of precise resist-dyeing on both warp and weft threads, creating softly blurred motifs like diamonds, waves, and squares. The result is a hypnotic, painterly effect.

Fabric options: Pure cotton for casual wear; silk blends for festive occasions.
Styling tip: Pair a Pochampally ikat kurta with slim pants or a saree with a contrasting belt to modernize the look.
Care: Hand-wash separately in cold water; use a mild detergent to preserve colours.
Origin: Kashmir Valley
Why you need it today: Harvested from Himalayan mountain goats, Pashmina wool is renowned for its unmatched softness and warmth. Kashmiri artisans add embroidery - Sozni, Aari, and Kashida to create exquisite shawls and wraps.
Styling tip: Drape a hand-embroidered Pashmina shawl over a blazer for chic winter sophistication or wrap it around evening wear for a touch of old-world glamour.

Care: Dry-clean only; store flat in a breathable cotton bag to avoid moth damage.
Buy authentic: Look for certified handloom or GI tags, and purchase from reputable cooperatives or designer labels that work directly with weavers.
Support artisans: Opt for platforms that pay weavers fairly and transparently share the provenance of each piece.
Mix and match: Don’t limit yourself to sarees - explore jackets, stoles, dresses, and home textiles in these fabrics for everyday luxury.
Care wisely: Follow fabric-specific care instructions to preserve your investment; proper storage can extend a textile’s life by decades.
Invest thoughtfully: Treat these textiles as heirlooms rather than fast fashion -each piece gains value through its story, craftsmanship, and the memories you create while wearing it.
On this National Textile Day, drape yourself in the artistry of India’s five most iconic weaves - Banarasi and Kanjivaram silks, Chanderi, Pochampally ikat, and Kashmir’s Pashmina. Each textile carries a legacy of specialist skills, regional culture, and timeless style. By investing in these handcrafted treasures, you not only elevate your personal wardrobe but also contribute to preserving the rich heritage of India’s textile artisans for generations to come.