By There’s something truly magical about sarees—the way they effortlessly blend timeless fashion with incredible versatility. A saree can be the ideal attire for both formal and informal events, such as weddings or a laid back brunch. The best part? How you drape it can completely transform your look.
More than simply a fabric to wrap, saree draping is an artistic creation with deep cultural resonance and distinctive regional flair. Every style conveys a unique perspective that embodies the customs and legacy of many regions within the nation.
This blog will guide you through a variety of saree draping methods, demonstrating how they may accentuate the beauty of your saree and offer you a stylish and fresh look that works for any event.
Read further to find out different draping styles and which can suit you best:
Nivi or Basic Saree Draping Style
Nivi Drape is the most popular, versatile and traditional saree wearing technique, which originated in Andhra Pradesh but now is famous all over India.
Steps to drape :
- Place the saree’s one end inside the petticoat and wrap it around your waist.
- Pleat at least five or seven times, then tuck it in at the front.
- Drape the loose end (pallu), over your left shoulder.
Events: Fit for formal gatherings, weddings, and everyday wear.
Style Tip: For a classical style, pair with a blouse that fits nicely and traditional jewelry.
Bengali Draping Style
Bengali style saree are recognizable in West Bengal and are renowned for their wide pallu and exquisite pleats.
Step to drape:
- The saree should be wrapped around and tucked in the waist without any front pleats.
- Pull the pallu across the right shoulder and pin it.
- Over the left shoulder, place the remaining pallu.
Events: Ideal for cultural events and celebrations such as Durga Puja.
Style Tip: Accessorize with a huge bindi and gold jewelry to complete the classic Bengali style.
Maharashtrian Drape
As the name denotes, this drape style is famously worn in Maharashtra. The distinct feature of this drape is that it is worn without a petticoat with a dhoti-like styling.
Steps to drape:
- Take a minimum 9-yard length saree and start the drape by tucking it from the back.
- Collect and split the pleats from the middle and take them back from between the legs.
- Tuck all the pleats at the back like a dhoti
- Cross the leftover saree pallu over the left shoulder.
Events: Traditional events and religious ceremonies.
Style Tip: Pair this saree with a nose ring and flower bun hairstyle for the typical Maharashtrian look.
Gujarati Drape Style
Gujarati Drape is popularly known as Seedha Pallu style, as in this style, the pallu of the saree is gracefully fixed across the chest.
Steps to drape:
- Make pleats at the front and tuck the saree in at the back.
- Pull the pallu across the right shoulder from the back.
- Lay the pallu across your chest and secure it with a pin on the left side.
Events: Festive events and wedding functions.
Styling tip: Add a traditional choker for an authentic Gujarati look.
Lehanga drape style
Do you wish to wear a lehenga but don’t want to spend a hefty amount buying it? Then style your existing saree lehenga style. Yes! This style of drape gives the saree the appearance of a lehenga skirt with its pleats.
Steps to drape:
- To replicate the style of a lehenga, create tight pleats around the waist.
- Allow the pallu to flow freely and drape it over the shoulder.
- Adjust pleats to create a voluminous look.
Events: Wedding functions and grand reception
Styling Tip: Style your saree cum lehenga with traditional jhumkas to complete the look.
Mumtaz Drape style
This style is inspired by Bollywood and gives a dashing retro look if worn.
Steps to drape:
- Tuck the saree around the waist tightly two to three times
- Then, pleat the pallu and drape it across the shoulder in slim layers.
- Make sure that the layers made are even and comfortable but give a fit look.
Events : Parties and special events.
Styling Tip: To elevate the retro charm, style the eyes with bold eyeliner and some vintage jewelry.
Butterfly Draping Style
If you are searching for modern and stylish draping styles for cocktail parties or similar occasions, butterfly draping can be the perfect pick. The drape looks sophisticated and gives a touch of glamor to your look.
Steps to drape:
- Wrap the saree around your waist and tuck one end inside your petticoat.
- Create six or seven front pleats, then tuck them in at your navel.
- Carefully fold the pallu over your left shoulder, making precise pleats.
- Pallu pleats should be spread out like butterfly wings.
- Pin the pallu’s center to your blouse for a snug fit.
Events : Cocktail parties and evening receptions.
Styling Tip : Wear it with minimal jewelry for that perfect chic look.
Pant Drape
Are you bored with the same old-school saree drape and want to try something new? Then go for this pant drape-style saree. This saree is mostly worn with pants instead of a petticoat, adding a modern twist to your look.
Steps to drape:
- Put on fit pants rather than a petticoat.
- Wrap the saree around the pants and tuck it in at the waist.
- Lean the pallu over your shoulder and allow it to fall naturally.
Events : Casual gatherings and contemporary events.
Styling Tip: Pair it with high heels and minimum jewellery to create an ultimate modern vibe.
Cape Style Saree
Opting for a cape-style saree is a stylish and fashionable option. Matching the saree with a chic cape or cape-like blouse, gives a contemporary twist to your old traditional look.
Steps to drape:
- Put the saree around your waist by tucking one end inside your petticoat.
- Using the pallu, create pleats and drape them over your left shoulder.
- Put on the shoulder-length cape.
- Under the cape, adjust the pallu and firmly pin it in place.
Events: Weddings, cocktail parties and other events.
Styling tip: Enhance your cape by styling it with stud earrings and a sleek necklace.
Double Saree drape style
An elegant and lavish technique to wear two sarees at once is to drape them double, creating a layered, sleek appearance. This look is popular for South Indian weddings and other important occasions requiring a grand appearance.
Steps to drape:
- The first step in draping is to put on a saree as usual, with the pallu draped over your shoulder and pleats in the middle.
- Layer one saree over the other by draping the second saree over the shoulder.
- Pin both pallus securely, and adjust the pleats of both sarees for an even, elegant flow.
Events: Grand wedding functions and receptions.
Styling Tip : Choose contrasting colored sarees for double draping to create a vibrant look.
Saree Drapes: Blending Traditions and Modernity!
Saree, is that traditional outfit for women that is both timeless and versatile. It so effortlessly merges tradition and contemporary fashion. This means that there are countless ways to express one’s individual style as well as cultural pride. The range of saree draping styles highlights the diversity and depth of India’s cultural legacy. Every technique has its own unique charm and backstory, ranging from traditional designs like the Nivi and Nauvari to contemporary twists like the Pant and Dhoti drapes.
