The saree, a timeless garment from India, is a drape of elegance and grace. It's a symbol of tradition and culture, yet it can also be incredibly modern and stylish. But for the uninitiated, wearing a saree can seem like a daunting task. Fear not! This blog will be your one-stop guide to mastering the art of saree draping and choosing the perfect design to suit your style.
The Art of Draping: A Step-by-Step Guide
There are numerous saree draping styles across India, each with its own unique flair. Here, we'll focus on the most common and versatile style, the Nivi drape.
What you'll need:
A saree (around 5-6 yards)
A petticoat (optional, but recommended for a smooth silhouette)
Safety pins
Blouse (preferably fitted to tuck into the petticoat)
Steps:
STEP1 Petticoat Power: Start by putting on the petticoat (a fitted underskirt) if you're using one. This helps the saree drape smoothly and provides a layer of modesty.
STEP 2 Pleating Perfection: Drape the saree around your waist, with one end hanging loose (the pallu). Make neat pleats starting from the other end. These pleats should be of uniform size and around 1-2 inches wide. Secure the pleats to the petticoat at your waist with a safety pin.
STEP 3 The Palla Play: Bring the loose end of the saree (pallu) over your shoulder, draping it elegantly across your back. The pallu can be of varying lengths depending on your preference. Pin it securely to the blouse at the shoulder.
STEP 4 The Elegant Tuck: Take the remaining portion of the saree near the pleats and tuck it neatly into the waistband of the petticoat at the hip. This creates a gathered effect at the front.
STEP 5 Fine-tuning: Adjust the pleats to ensure they are even and the saree falls gracefully. Finally, arrange the pallu to your desired style - flowing loose, pleated over the shoulder, or elegantly pinned to the front of the blouse.
Tips for Flawless Draping:
Practice makes perfect! Don't be discouraged if it takes a few tries to get the drape right.
Use starched sarees for a more structured drape, especially when you're a beginner.
Watch online tutorials for visual guidance on different draping styles.
some tailors specialize in saree draping. Consider their services if you need extra help.
10 Saree Designs to Set Your Style on Fire
Now that you've mastered the art of draping, let's explore some stunning saree designs to make a statement:
1. Kanjeevaram Silk:
The epitome of luxury, Kanjeevaram silks are known for their intricate weaving patterns and rich colors. Perfect for festive occasions or formal gatherings.
Image courtesy: Panaash saree
Price: 3999rs
2. Bandhani Saree:
This colorful tie-and-dye technique creates mesmerizing patterns. Bandhani sarees are a vibrant and playful choice for any occasion.
Image courtesy: Nykaa
Price: 4199rs
3. Chiffon Saree:
Light and airy, chiffon sarees are ideal for summer or evening wear. They come in a vast array of colors and prints, offering a touch of elegance and flow.
Image courtesy: Nykaa
Price: 3599rs
4. Lehenga Saree:
A fusion of the saree and lehenga, this design features a pre-stitched skirt with a flowing drape. Perfect for weddings or special events, it offers a dramatic and glamorous look.
Image courtesy: Nykaa
Price: 17000rs
5. Cotton Saree:
The quintessential everyday saree, cotton sarees are comfortable and breathable. They come in a variety of colors and weaves, perfect for casual outings or workwear.
Image courtesy: Nykaa
Price: 2639rs
6. Printed Saree:
From floral motifs to geometric patterns, printed sarees offer endless design possibilities. They're a great way to showcase your personality and add a touch of whimsy to your look.
Image courtesy: Nykaa
Price: 3849rs
7. Embroidered Saree:
Intricate embroidery adds a touch of sophistication and grandeur to a saree. Choose from traditional floral patterns or contemporary designs to suit your taste.
Image courtesy: Nykaa
Price: 3039rs
8. Sequined Saree:
For a touch of sparkle, a sequined saree is sure to turn heads. Ideal for festive occasions or glamorous evenings, it adds a touch of shimmer and shine.
Image courtesy: Nykaa
Price: 2699rs
9. Linen Saree:
Eco-friendly and elegant, linen sarees are perfect for the summer months. They offer a cool and crisp look with a touch of sophistication.
Image courtesy: Nykaa
Price:
10. Draped Saree:
This innovative design features a pre-pleated saree attached to a waistband, making it incredibly easy to wear. Perfect for beginners or those who want a hassle-free saree experience.
Image courtesy: Nykaa
Price: 6999rs
Consider the occasion:
Formal Events: Opt for silks like Kanjeevaram or Banarasi, with rich colors and intricate designs.
Festive Occasions: A vibrant Bandhani saree or a glamorous Lehenga saree would be perfect choices.
Workwear: Cotton sarees with geometric prints or subtle borders offer a professional yet stylish look.
Casual Outings: Light chiffon sarees with floral prints or breezy linen sarees are ideal for everyday wear.
Evening Events: Shine in a sequined saree for a touch of glamour, or choose a flowing chiffon saree with elegant embroidery.
Style Your Saree:
Jewelry: Pair your saree with statement jewelry like pearls, kundan sets, or temple jewelry depending on the occasion and design.
Blouse: Experiment with different blouse styles like halter necks, backless cholis, or boat necks to create a unique look.
Hairstyle: A sleek bun or braid complements a traditional look, while loose waves or a ponytail can add a modern touch.
Makeup: Keep your makeup subtle for daytime wear and add a touch of drama with smokey eyes or bold lipstick for evening events.
With a little practice and these helpful tips, you'll be a saree pro in no time! So, embrace the elegance and tradition of this timeless garment, and discover the magic of the saree!
FAQs about Saree Magic: Unleashing Your Inner Diva
Q1. What are some common mistakes beginners make while draping a saree?
Ans: Uneven pleats are a frequent issue. Use safety pins to secure them temporarily while adjusting the drape. Another common mistake is choosing a slippery fabric like silk for your first attempt. Opt for starched cotton or chiffon sarees for better pleat control.
Q2. How can I accessorize my saree to elevate the look?
Ans: Jewelry plays a key role! Pearls or kundan sets offer a classic touch, while temple jewelry adds a cultural flair. For the blouse, consider the occasion. Formal events call for dressier options like brocade or silk, while casual outings allow for simpler cotton blouses. Experiment with necklines and sleeve lengths to find what flatters you most.
Q3. What are some tips for caring for my sarees?
Ans: Proper storage is key. Fold sarees neatly and store them in breathable cotton bags. Delicate fabrics like silk and linen should be dry-cleaned, while cotton sarees can be hand-washed with mild detergent.
Q4. Are there different draping styles for different regions of India?
Ans: Absolutely! The Nivi drape covered in this blog is a common style, but there are many regional variations across India. Each style has its own cultural significance and beauty. You can explore online resources or consult a tailor to learn about different draping techniques like the Gujarati style or the Maharashtrian style.
Q5. Can I wear a saree if I'm not Indian?
Ans: Of course! The saree is a beautiful garment that anyone can appreciate and wear. Respect the cultural significance by choosing appropriate occasions and learn the basics of draping. Many online tutorials and saree stores can guide you through the process.