Quick answer: Velvet is plush, warm and regal — perfect for winter and grand evening looks; jamawar is a richly woven fabric with intricate self-patterns, heritage and structure; banarsi is a luxurious woven brocade shot with zari, traditional and opulent. All three are richer and more substantial than net or organza, so they suit statement, ceremonial pieces. Choose velvet for warmth and drama, jamawar for woven heritage, and banarsi for traditional, metallic opulence.
Beyond the lighter fabrics, these three woven and plush textiles bring richness and heritage to festive wear. Here's how velvet, jamawar and banarsi compare.
The three at a glance
| Fabric | Feel | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Velvet | Plush, warm, weighty | Winter, regal evening looks |
| Jamawar | Woven, structured, intricate | Heritage, statement pieces |
| Banarsi | Brocade woven with zari | Traditional, opulent occasions |
Velvet
Velvet has a deep, plush pile that catches the light beautifully and feels luxurious and warm — ideal for winter weddings and grand evening events. It carries embroidery richly and reads as regal and dramatic. (See winter wedding ideas.)
Jamawar
Jamawar is woven with intricate self-coloured or tonal patterns, giving texture and heritage without relying on surface embroidery. It's structured and timeless — a classic choice for those who love woven craftsmanship.
Banarsi
Banarsi is a fine woven brocade traditionally shot through with zari for a metallic, opulent finish. Steeped in tradition, it's beautifully festive for ceremonial and formal occasions.
Which should you choose?
- Want warmth and winter drama? Velvet.
- Want woven, textured heritage? Jamawar.
- Want traditional, metallic opulence? Banarsi.
For the lighter fabrics, see net vs organza vs raw silk.
Browse the bridal collection, party wear, or ask us which fabric suits your design.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between velvet, jamawar and banarsi?
Velvet is plush, warm and weighty for winter and regal looks; jamawar is a woven fabric with intricate self-patterns and heritage structure; banarsi is a luxurious brocade woven with zari for traditional opulence.
Which fabric is best for a winter wedding?
Velvet is ideal — its plush pile is warm and dramatic, and it carries embroidery beautifully for grand winter evening events.
Is banarsi the same as having embroidery?
Not quite — banarsi's pattern is woven into the fabric with zari thread rather than embroidered on top, which gives it its distinctive traditional, metallic richness.
Are these fabrics heavy to wear?
They're more substantial than net or organza, which is what gives them their richness and structure, so they suit statement and ceremonial pieces rather than light dance-night wear.
AÏNN London makes each piece to measure and helps you choose the fabric that suits your design and season — with a video before dispatch. Ask us anything.
Last updated: June 2026
