Bharatanatyam Costumes: A Blend of Tradition and Elegance

When grace meets tradition, it drapes itself in silk, gold, and vibrant colors — that’s the magic of Bharatanatyam costumes. More than just attire, these costumes are an extension of the dancer’s soul, helping narrate centuries-old stories through movement and expression.

And when it comes to crafting these timeless outfits, Shanthi Tailors, based in Mylapore, Chennai, has been the go-to name since 1967 — combining tradition, elegance, and precision tailoring for dancers around the world.

Rooted in Tradition

Bharatanatyam originated in Tamil Nadu, where temple dancers performed within sacred sanctums. The costume has always played a divine role — designed not just to beautify, but to enhance storytelling through movement and rhythm.

At Shanthi Tailors, we preserve this legacy by using pure handloom Kanchipuram and Dharamvaram silks, carefully stitched and finished by expert artisans who understand both the tradition and the stage.

Three Main Costume Variants

While Bharatanatyam has a traditional base, dancers today choose from three primary costume variants, each bringing its own style and functionality.

🧵 1.

Fan Costume (Traditional Style)

The most iconic variant — with neatly stitched pleats that open like a fan during postures like araimandi and muzhumandi. This is the most popular choice for Arangetrams and classical performances.

👉 Shanthi Tailors is known for crafting fan costumes with perfect symmetry, color matching, and sharp fall — giving dancers that elegant silhouette and stage impact.

👗 2.

Skirt Costume (Comfort & Flow)

Designed for ease and elegance, the skirt costume features a flowing stitched skirt with no front fan, giving the dancer more flexibility and a softer look.

👉 Ideal for young dancers, school group shows, and expressive performances, our skirt-style costumes are available in unique color combos and ready-to-wear formats.

🩳 3.

Dhothi Costume (Bold & Dynamic)

Inspired by male temple dancers and dynamic dance items, the dhothi costume is gaining popularity for its bold traditional appeal and comfortable drape.

👉 At Shanthi Tailors, we custom-make dhothi costumes with stunning borders and tailored fit — perfect for both boys and girls exploring new margam items or modern stage pieces.

Jewelry & Accessories – The Finishing Touch

A Bharatanatyam costume is incomplete without its matching temple jewelry — headsets, long harams, chokers, vankis, studs, belts, and more.

🎭 Shanthi Tailors handcrafts original silver-based temple jewelry, each gold-leafed like a Tanjore painting (not just gold-plated). This makes every piece authentic, long-lasting, and heirloom-worthy.

Our accessory line also includes:

• Practice sarees

• Makeup kits

• Alta pens, glue dots

• Flowers, bells, ear stickers, and dress stickers

Why Dancers Trust Shanthi Tailors

🧵 Over 55 years of craftsmanship

🌍 Delivered to over 120+ countries

🎨 Custom-styled for every dancer’s measurement and choreography

📦 Quick and reliable international shipping

👩🎤 Trusted by solo performers, dance schools, and gurus across the globe

Whether you’re preparing for an Arangetram or a global stage show, Shanthi Tailors is your one-stop destination for Bharatanatyam costumes and accessories.

Let’s Stitch Your Story

A Bharatanatyam costume isn’t just about fabric — it’s about feeling empowered, divine, and ready to perform. Whether you choose fan, skirt, or dhothi style, your costume should speak your journey.

💬 Talk to us about your dream costume.

🎭 Let us bring it to life — with precision, tradition, and elegance.

📍Visit us: Shanthi Tailors, 5 Kapaleeswar Sannathi Street, Mylapore, Chennai

🌐 Website: www.shanthitailor.com

📱 WhatsApp: +91 90033 26517

📸 Instagram: @shanthitailorsindia