Perhaps more than anyone else Indira Devi’s daughter, the much photographed Gayatri Devi, consolidated the “Princess style” in India.  Chiffons (often draped over the head), a single strand of pearls and simple little blouses spelt elegance and style for very many years. In many ways they represented the transition from girlhood to stylish womanhood for many Indian women.

Apparently the saris were French chiffons on to which brocade borders were stitched.  That probably accounts for the numerous photos in the 30s and 40s in which this kind of sari appears.

(Source: gallery.mid-day.com)