Chanderi is one of the most sought-after fabrics in Indian fashion — lightweight, slightly sheer, with a natural sheen that sits between silk and cotton. It has been woven in Chanderi, Madhya Pradesh for centuries. Here is everything you need to know before buying a chanderi piece.
What is chanderi fabric?
Chanderi is a handwoven fabric from Chanderi town in Madhya Pradesh, India. It is made from a blend of silk and cotton, giving it a distinctive lightweight texture with a subtle sheen. Chanderi fabric drapes beautifully, is slightly translucent, and feels cool against the skin — which is why it works across seasons in India.
What is chanderi cotton?
Chanderi cotton is a variant of chanderi fabric where the weft is cotton rather than pure silk. It is more affordable than pure silk chanderi, slightly less sheer, and easier to maintain. Cotton chanderi breathes well, making it practical for daywear and festive occasions in warmer months.
What is cotton silk chanderi?
Cotton silk chanderi combines a cotton warp with a silk weft (or vice versa), giving the fabric both the durability of cotton and the sheen of silk. It is the most commonly available form of chanderi and is used for kurtis, tunic sets, dupattas, and sarees. The Poppy Tunic at HOH is made in cotton silk chanderi.
Where is chanderi fabric made?
Chanderi fabric is made in Chanderi, a small town in Ashoknagar district of Madhya Pradesh. The weaving tradition dates back to the 11th century. Chanderi sarees and fabric are still largely handwoven by artisan families using pit looms. Buying chanderi supports this living craft tradition.
How do you identify genuine chanderi fabric?
Genuine chanderi fabric is lightweight and slightly translucent when held to light. It has a natural, soft sheen — not glossy like synthetic fabric. The weave is tight but the fabric feels airy. Authentic chanderi often has small woven motifs (bootis) or border patterns. If it feels heavy, stiff, or has a plastic-like shine, it is likely a synthetic imitation.
How do you wash chanderi fabric?
Chanderi fabric should be hand-washed in cold water with a mild detergent, or dry-cleaned for pure silk chanderi. Do not wring or machine-wash — the delicate weave can distort. Lay flat to dry in shade. Iron on low heat with a pressing cloth between the iron and fabric.
What is chanderi fabric used for?
Chanderi is used for sarees, kurtis, tunic sets, salwar suits, dupattas, and co-ord sets. It is particularly popular for festive wear, wedding guest outfits, and occasion dressing. Its natural sheen makes it suitable for both day and evening events without looking overdressed.
Is chanderi fabric suitable for all seasons?
Chanderi is best suited for spring, autumn, and mild summer in India. It is lightweight enough to not feel heavy in heat, but has enough structure to look elegant at festive occasions. For peak summer, cotton chanderi is more comfortable than silk chanderi.
What is the difference between chanderi and chiffon?
Chanderi is a handwoven fabric from Madhya Pradesh with a natural sheen and slight structure. Chiffon is a machine-made sheer fabric, usually synthetic, that is lighter and more fluid. Chanderi has a handcrafted quality and texture that chiffon does not. Chanderi is more durable and holds its shape better over time.
What is the price of chanderi fabric?
Chanderi fabric typically costs between Rs 150 to Rs 800 per metre for cotton chanderi, and Rs 500 to Rs 2,500 per metre for pure silk chanderi, depending on the quality and weave complexity. Ready-made garments in chanderi start from around Rs 1,500 for basic kurtis and go significantly higher for handcrafted, made-to-order pieces with detailed work.
At Haus of Handmade, chanderi pieces are made to order and handcrafted in India. The Poppy Tunic in cotton silk chanderi and Dandelion Tunic in white chanderi are two of our most requested festive pieces.