If you’ve been looking for a saree that feels like second skin, looks effortlessly elegant and keeps you cool in every sense of the word, mul cotton sarees are your answer. From grandmothers to Gen Z fashionistas, everyone is falling in love with this humble yet gorgeous fabric. But, what’s really behind the buzz?
Let’s explore why mul cotton sarees are winning hearts across India (and across oceans too!).
Mul cotton (or muslin) is a soft, airy, lightweight cotton fabric that was once considered fit for royalty. Today, it has made a stylish comeback as one of the best cotton sarees for Indian summers, ideal for women who want comfort without compromising on style and elegance.
One of the biggest reasons women love mul cotton sarees is their unmatched softness and breathability. They’re perfect for India’s tropical climate, so no itching, no stickiness, no stiffness. Because they are 100% cotton, they’re gentle on the skin and become softer with every wash!
Whether you’re dancing at a sangeet, attending a puja, or walking along the beach (yes, even through ocean waves!), mul cotton sarees stay with you. They’re so light and airy, you can literally jump, run, sit cross-legged or dance in them without feeling weighed down.
Purvi Sharma, a handloom saree enthusiast and friend, said, “I wore my mul cotton saree the whole day in the sticky Bali weather, even walked through the ocean with it to Tanah Lot Temple. Despite the humidity, I felt amazing and still looked great by the end of the day as the saree did not crumple!”
Unlike stiffer cotton sarees, mul cotton sarees tend to gently hug the body. They fall beautifully along your curves and create a clean, lean look that’s both elegant and flattering. The drape sits naturally, making it comfortable for first-time saree wearers, too.
Don’t want the hassle of dry cleaning or ironing? Mul cotton, due to its thin weave, dries quickly, folds easily and takes minimal space in your travel bag. It’s the ideal cotton saree for working women, travellers, or busy moms who want to look good without too much effort.
Mul cotton sarees are often a favourite among artisan weavers and sustainable fashion brands from India. You’ll find them in beautiful hand block prints, Kalamkari patterns, Chikankari embroidery, natural-dyed motifs and more. Each saree has a story to tell, one of heritage, craftsmanship and slow fashion.
These daily wear sarees are so versatile that you can wear them to the office, on a visit to a sacred place, at a casual get-together or even to a wedding function. These elegant drapes effortlessly blend tradition and trend, making them a must-have for every Indian woman. You can check out this lovely purple handloom mul cotton metallic polka-dotted saree for a semi-formal party.
These soft cotton sarees are easy to style. You can pair them with oxidised silver jewellery and kolhapuris for a desi vibe or add a statement blouse and heels for a festive twist. Some even rock it with sneakers and a tank for a modern saree look. Mul cotton can adapt to your personality.
In short, mul cotton sarees are:
In a world of synthetic blends and fast fashion, mul cotton sarees bring us back to our roots, as they are simple, stylish and breathable. So, whether it’s for a holy service, party, picnic or a passport stamp, reach for a mul cotton saree because comfort plus culture is always in style.
This blog post is part of ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’
hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla.
32 Comments
I’m not a saree-wearer in general but I do love the softness of a mul fabric.
Great tip for the delhi heat. Will definitely keep my eye out for some good mul sarees
I absolutely love wearing sarees and mul cotton is one of the best maaterials to drape. Love your purple saree much
Absolutely loved this! As someone who lives in cottons, I can vouch for every word—mul cotton sarees truly breathe with you. They’re my go-to for comfort, elegance, and a bit of nostalgia.
I feel such joy reading your beautiful tribute—mul cotton sarees truly blend softness, breathability, and heritage so effortlessly. Your article captures their gentle elegance and timeless charm with tender respect.
You know my love for sarees! I can wear them all day and never get tired of the immense variety. Mul sarees are lovely to wear and this one suits you nicely!
Thank you, Varsha!
Cotton is the best fabric!! and Saree is very gorgeous Clothing…. No doubt it’s winning hearts and getting praises.
Oh..I love them. I am so happy that you spoke about this. This is such a detailed post and I agree with you that it is easy on our pockets considering how elegant it looks
It’s rare that I wear sarees but reading through your post about mul cotton sarees, I feel like getting one and gifting it to my mum so I can borrow from her later.
I love mul cotton sarees and have my fair share of it. Love this polka dot purple saree on you. The colour suits you! 🙂
Thank you, Shalini!
My sister recently got these sarees. Love how you are inspiring the fashion style and culture.
Agree! I have a few and yes, they are lightweight and easy to drape.
I love soft and breathable sarees. The one which you are wearing has this excellent color, that it has inspired me to get one for myself soon!
The colour of the saree is beautiful. Truly, in the world of synthetics, real things are rare and valued.
I like how you highlight its “second‑skin” softness, breathable charm, and effortless elegance. I don’t wear sarees but it seems like mull cotton ones are perfect for everything from hot summer days to travel or casual outings.
You can look for mul cotton kurtas and all, too, Manali!
As a saree lover, I agree with all the points you’ve shared, Cindy. Mul sarees are light and comfortable.
I wear sarees whenever I get the chance, they just make me feel so at home in my own skin. I bought two mul cotton sarees last year and absolutely fell in love with how soft and light they feel. Totally get why they’re becoming everyone’s favorite.
It’s definitely a good fabric. I love wearing tops made of mul cotton. And yes, saves a lot of space and easy to wash and dry, even during trips.
I love mul kurtas but haven’t worn any mul saree. The sarees look elegant. For our weather, mul is the best material as it’s skin-friendly. Thanks for sharing these charmers. I am going to order one right away.
This is a beautifully written tribute to mul cotton sarees ; soft, lightweight, and perfect for daily wear or festive occasions alike. I wasn’t exposed to this variety of Saree and would like to gift one to my mother. I especially liked the sections on travel-friendly fabric and low maintenance; they make these sarees a practical yet stylish choice.
I did not know about Mul sarees. I love draping sarees but feels a bit uncomfortable. I think this is a game changer. You look amazing, Cindy!
Thank you, Pinki!
I have worn a mul cotton saree and I just love it for all the reasons that you have mentioned.They are more cost effective too , requiring less maintenance and feel more drapey and airy. Love the tantalising glimpses of you in the sari.
Awwwww, thank you, Preeti!
I’m not a regular sari person, though I do wear one on once a year for some occasion (usually drapped by my mom as I can only carry it not drape it!), but I do gift saris to my sari-loving friends and after reading this post, I’m thinking to buy a mul cotton saree next for me for some future occasion.
Your article inspires a real appreciation for how these sarees can be both a sustainable wardrobe staple and a stylish statement.
Thank you!
It was nice to read positive things about Mul sarees. They are one of my favs as they are very flattering for my body n easy to drape n carry.
Wish you had posted a full pic of yourself in it.
I will, soon! Thank you, Kaveri.