What is a Rettapet Kanchipuram saree?

Rettapet Kanchipuram silk sarees are recognized by their twin parallel border lines woven along the edge, creating a layered visual rhythm that frames both plain and richly woven Kanchipuram designs. 'Rettapet' means 'double line' in Tamil — the two border bands run in parallel along both edges of the saree, giving it a clean, structured elegance distinctive to this weave style.

How is the Rettapet border woven?

The twin border lines are woven directly into the saree on the loom — not embroidered or attached after weaving. Each line is an integral part of the fabric structure, created by a separate shuttle carrying contrasting silk or zari thread alongside the body weave. This is what distinguishes a genuine handwoven Rettapet from machine imitations.

What makes Rettapet different from other Kanchipuram border styles?

Most Kanchipuram sarees feature a single broad border. Rettapet sarees instead carry two parallel woven bands along the edge — creating a layered, rhythmic frame rather than a single solid border. This gives the saree a lighter, more graphic silhouette compared to the heavier temple-border styles.

Are Rettapet Kanchipuram sarees suitable for weddings?

Yes. Rettapet sarees are a popular choice for wedding guests, reception wear, and festive occasions. Their structured twin border lends ceremony without the full weight of a traditional heavy temple-border bridal saree — making them ideal for multi-day wedding events where you want elegance with comfort.

Are Idam Living Rettapet sarees Silk Mark certified?

Every Idam Living saree — including all Rettapet sarees — carries the Silk Mark certification issued by the Central Silk Board, Government of India. This guarantees 100% pure mulberry silk with no blends or synthetic content.

Where are Idam Living Rettapet sarees sourced from?

Our Rettapet sarees are handwoven by weaver families in and around Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu — including from Kunnam village, the ancestral home of our founder's family, who are generational silk weavers. Every saree is sourced directly from the loom, with no middlemen.

How do I care for a Rettapet Kanchipuram silk saree?

Dry clean only for the first few washes to preserve the zari and silk integrity. Store folded in a soft cotton muslin cloth — never in plastic. Re-fold along different lines every few months to prevent crease wear at fold points. Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Collection: Pure Silk Kanchipuram Sarees

Pure Kanchipuram silk sarees, also known as Kanjeevaram sarees, Kanchipattu sarees, and Kancheevaram sarees, handwoven on traditional looms in Kunnam village, Kanchipuram, where master weavers continue time-honoured practices deeply connected to our founder Anula's ancestral roots. Every saree is Silk Mark Certified, woven in 100% pure mulberry silk, and sourced directly from artisan weaver families in the Kanchipuram district of Tamil Nadu, India. Each piece is fall and pico finished, ready to drape on arrival, ships free from New Jersey to all 50 US states, with custom blouse stitching available for $30.