Chiffon Sarees: A True Friend Of All Seasons

Chiffon is a fabric that is lightweight, sheer, and plain. It has a net-like weave, which gives it an almost transparent look. The word chiffon is of French origin, meaning cloth or a rag. It is made of alternate S and Z high twist yarns. Because of such a fine net or mesh-like structure, chiffon has a very transparent look.

Chiffon, in earlier times, was primarily made of natural silk. But in later years, it was followed by synthetic fibres like nylon, rayon, and polyester. These synthetic fibres have made Chiffon Sarees immensely popular because of its texture and pricing. Chiffon is one of the most frequently used to weave dresses, saris, blouses, gowns, tops, scarves, and even lingerie.

Origin and History of Chiffon: -

Though it is not exactly known who had invented chiffon and when, but it is very clear that it had been available all throughout Europe in the early 18th century. Back then, it was used to symbolize social and family-standing. But later, when nylon was invented in 1938, it led to the invention of chiffon made of nylon instead of natural silk, which was earlier used to show aristocracy. 

It further followed by a rayon and polyester version of chiffon in 1958. Thus, came the practice and use of synthetic fibre chiffon, which easily gained popularity in the market owing to the strength of the fabric and low costing. 

Making of Chiffon: - 

Chiffon weave in a criss-cross pattern to give the fabric a checkered or mesh-like pattern. The yarns used in weaving chiffon are twisted, which gives the fabric a slightly crumpled look. It is difficult to work with chiffon since it has a very slippery or silky texture. Therefore, it takes time and effort for craftsmen while making chiffon saris. 

When can we wear a chiffon?

Chiffon sarees are a perfect choice for any season or occasion. But it is especially in the summers we consider it a perfect choice since it is very lightweight, comfortable and easy to pleat around. This fabric makes you feel soft and feel free, considering the scorching summer heat of the sun and the high humidity in tropical regions like India. 

Not only in summer but can also wear this fabric in the monsoon as it dries up fast and also in autumn and spring. Even during winters, one can easily style a chiffon saree with a sweater or blazer to have a cool chic look. It is also comfortable to wear on any occasion or at any places such as offices, social or family gatherings, evening get-togethers, and at any party, you stand out. Hence, we can easily consider chiffon as a party wear sarees. 

Price of Chiffon: -

Depending on the yarns used, the price of a chiffon saree can alter. A chiffon saree made from silk yarns can cost thousands, whereas the ones made of synthetic yarns cost a few hundred. While buying a chiffon sari, it is best to search for a trusted online seller who deals in chiffon saris. Once you are sure of their quality, you can purchase Chiffon saris from them. 

Ways to Maintain Chiffon Sarees

· Chiffon sarees should be ideally hand washed or slow machine washed with care so that the cloth does not get worn out.

· Chiffon saris can bleed colors. Hence, it is advisable not to wash a chiffon saree (of a dark colour) with any other clothes for the first few washes. 

· We should keep the duration of the wash cycle very short. Immersing and keeping a chiffon saree in detergent water for long can be detrimental to the fabric.

· Use a very light detergent to wash chiffon saris. Avoid drying chiffon sarees under direct sunlight else. It may lead to permanent fading of colour.