Fake vs real Sabyasachi lehenga: Tips to identify an authentic designer piece this wedding season

When you visit the lanes of Chandni Chowk, each store promises a stunning Sabyasachi piece, quoting it as original. But, in reality, it’s just a stunning replica. Where many vendors solemnly pledge to have an exact copy, others create a false narrative and deceive customers into believing that the design is original. With so many designs in front of you, the real question remains how to identify a fake piece of garment. To avoid falling into the trap and buying a fake Sabyasachi lehenga, you need to learn these rules and then search for the grace of the great Bengal tiger.

Sabyasachi loves his traditional handlooms, and the intricate karigari is what defines his signature style. But, among the many regional elements, the designer mostly incorporates Chanderi patterns and intricate thread-work detailing, which dominate his lehenga designs. You must check out the coin replicas, peacock motifs, geometric weaves, polka-flower patterns, and the design of the golden thread. His patterns are mostly average size and repetitive; if they look too oversized or even too small, then it's a fake choice.

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This is a sure-shot way to know whether your lehenga is original or not. Check the packaging thoroughly, as an original Sabyasachi lehenga will surely come in luxurious box packaging bearing its Bengal Tiger logo on it. On the other hand, the replicas are often packed in general poly bags or huge boxes, which will not have the authentic logo of the brand.

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If you want the popular dual-toned Sabyasachi lehenga, then understand the distinct shades and contrast. This popular trend is available in several Chandni Chowk and South Extension market stores. An original piece will carry contrasting pieces that will complement each other and remain in complete harmony. But Sabyasachi never leaves the gota-patti work behind, where the broad border around the hemline with geometric pleat design is his signature statement. So, understand the colour combinations and their contrasting tones, and then determine whether it's an original or fake.

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You will never find an original Sabyasachi in the streets of Chandni Chowk, as his collection is only available at his own flagship store or can rarely be spotted in a multi-designer store that they sell through. But, if you’re also purchasing from a multi-designer store, be extra careful and look out for the intricate details. You can also shop from his website, but if there is a middleman inclusion, understand that the deal is a fake promise. So, research well in advance before shopping for your wedding.

(Image Credits: Pinterest)

(Image Credits: Pinterest)