Saris and Things has become the go-to solution for anyone in the United States seeking luxury Indian formalwear through a hassle-free rental experience. Established in 2011 and based in Naperville, Illinois, this brand offers an expansive collection of saris, lehengas, anarkalis, and sherwanis, empowering both the South Asian diaspora and those seeking cross-cultural looks for weddings, festivals, and celebrations.
How ‘Saris and Things’ Works
The process is designed for convenience and flexibility. Customers start by browsing dozens of styles online, choosing from a modern collection of pre-pleated saris, elegant lehengas, and classic anarkalis. Every order includes a complimentary medium-sized blouse, a backup blouse for fit assurance, and an adjustable petticoat. Renters can also add matching jewelry and accessories. Checking out is simple—customers select their event date, and shipping is set to arrive a day or two prior. Fast and free shipping options are available for last-minute needs. After the occasion, garments are simply placed in prepaid boxes, shipped back via UPS/USPS, and dry cleaning is handled by Saris and Things.
This streamlined return system, absence of cleaning fees, and added backup blouse (or backup sizing for lehengas) minimize sizing stress and make the entire process worry-free. Customer reviews regularly praise Saris and Things for prompt delivery and hands-on service: “Very impressed with the high level of customer service with this company. I needed my Sari within couple days and they made sure to have it to me in time. Very professional and courteous staff members on the phone. I highly recommend to rent from here. P.S. the sari was absolutely beautiful and perfection!”
Ownership and Company Background
Founded by Shital Daftari, Saris and Things began as an exclusive online boutique with a mission to make Indian designer fashion accessible in the US. Drawing on her own experience navigating the challenges of Indian fashion procurement, Daftari built a business that champions convenience, education, and cross-cultural celebration. The company is privately held and has grown steadily, democratizing access to South Asian fashion for a diverse American audience. The brand is open by appointment and ships orders nationwide, remaining the largest Indian clothing rental site in the United States.
Benefits for Consumers
- Wide Selection & Authentic Styles: Shoppers enjoy access to hundreds of traditional and fusion styles, including plus sizes and pre-pleated saris for non-experts.
- Flexible Fit & Risk-Free Sizing: Included backup blouses and adjustable accessories ensure a comfortable fit; extra sizes for lehenga blouses and free jewelry consultations stand out among rental services.
- Convenient Delivery: Orders arrive on time with fast shipping for urgent events, and easy returns mean no dry cleaning fees or stress.
- Reliable Service: Dedicated staff and hands-on support with weddings, festivals, and multi-outfit events make Saris and Things beloved among customers.
- Affordable Luxury: Rentals cost a fraction of US retail prices, making cross-cultural participation more attainable.
Application for Sellers
Saris and Things partners with designers, ateliers, and small boutiques from India and the US to source authentic pieces and create commissions for garment owners. Sellers gain a digital storefront and logistical support, expanding their reach into a fast-growing market. The company handles cleaning, storage, and shipping, meaning designers and small business owners can participate in the rental economy with minimal overhead.
Local entrepreneurs can join the Saris and Things partner program, leveraging logistics, marketing, and customer support to grow their own Indian fashion rental services. This ecosystem increases visibility for both established and emerging designers.
Future Outlook
The US market for Indian formalwear rental is growing rapidly, propelled by multicultural events, cross-border weddings, and a demand for sustainable fashion. Industry research suggests that as fashion rental enters the mainstream, more brands will improve sizing, logistics, and cross-cultural education, mirroring Saris and Things’ leadership. The brand aims to debut fusion ensembles, expand plus-size selections, and strengthen educational outreach for new customers.
With tens of thousands of happy customers and ongoing investment in technology and inventory, Saris and Things is well-positioned for continued growth, helping more people look and feel beautiful at every celebration.
