There is something so beautiful, so ethereal about a saree!
To a layman, it might seem like just a really long piece of fabric, that takes a lot of patience and talent to drape; but to those in the know, there is no outfit that makes a woman look more beautiful!
For many women, the only deterrent to investing in this gorgeous piece of fabric is not knowing how to drape a saree or not being completely confident about styling it.
At Raj Ratan, we have been crafting the most stunning sarees for several decades and we would like to think that we know a thing or two about them.
Stylish, classy and easy 8 ways to drape a saree
If you are a newcomer to the world of saree draping, then this should prove to be a comprehensive list of the many ways this fabric can be draped. And in case you already know the basics of draping one, then use this as a guide to experimenting with new styles!
1. The Nivi style:
This is the simplest and most basic way of draping a saree; should someone search online on how to wear saree for a beginner, this will be the most populated result. In this method, the saree is pleated and tucked in at the waist, and then the pallu is draped over the left shoulder, wherein the desired length of the pallu is left hanging gracefully. The pallu can also be pleated, which is often the more comfortable option for those who are not used to the saree.
2. The front pallu:
The front pallu is a more traditional style of draping the saree is very common in several states of Western India. Most of the saree pleating is done the normal way, but instead of draping the pallu over the left shoulder, it is brought in from behind the waist and the end of the pallu sits towards the front. The pallu is then pleated to create a fan like look and is tucked into the waist.
3. The belted saree:
This is a more recent arrival in the world of ways to drape a saree and is a perfect amalgamation of Indian and Western styles. The saree is worn normally, but the pallu is pleated and a stylish belt, which is often made with a complimentary fabric, is worn at the waist. This not only keeps the pallu and pleats in check but also cinches in the waist, to create a more hourglass look.
4. The pant style:
A more modern way of draping the traditional saree, this style is becoming extremely popular with the younger crop! The fusion of the traditional saree, with a more modern fitting pant, this style is easy to carry and looks very cool. In this style, instead of the petticoat, you would wear a pair of skinny-fit pants, in a colour, print or pattern that corresponds to the saree. You can choose to add a belt to create that cinched waist look, but that is optional.
5. The dhoti style:
Yet another modern fusion method of bringing the saree into the modern world – the dhoti style would be a great way to show off the latest party wear saree. As is with the pant style of wearing a saree, in this style too, you would wear leggings or tight-fit pants, rather than the customary petticoat. The saree is draped in a manner similar to that of men’s dhoti and then a belt can be added, making this a really good choice for weddings, parties and special occasions.
6. The cape style:
This is a unique and truly elegant style of draping fancy party wear sarees, because the addition of a cape adds a sense of drama! So, while the saree is draped in the normal manner, there is an additional cape that you would wear over your blouse. In most cases, a sleeveless blouse is worn, because the cape works like the sleeves. This is normally a very glamorous look and is really well suited for weddings and evening parties.
7. The lehenga style:
The marriage between a lehenga and a saree, this style has become incredibly popular with women of all ages and can be seen very frequently at weddings, receptions and engagement parties. In this style, either a lehenga or a full pleat skirt can be used and then a saree would be pleated from the sides and then draped over the shoulder. This style works really well with heavy silks or specific party wear lehenga saree options.
8. The around the neck:
If you are looking for a how to drape saree in winter months, then this is a good option. The saree is worn in the normal way, but instead of leaving the pallu draped over the shoulder, it brought around the neck. So, if you are planning to wear a cardigan or a blazer during the colder months, this is a really good option. The same style can also be used for sarees, where the pallu is on the simpler side, but you still want that slight drama.
Now that you know the many ways of how to wear a saree elegantly, you just need to pay a little attention to the other aspects – your hair and makeup, the accessories you choose, the footwear you pick will all have a role to play. At Raj Ratan, you can find some of the most classiest and most elegant sarees, and other ethnic wear, for the modern woman!
