The saree is a timeless and versatile garment that has been worn by women in India for centuries. It is a symbol of Indian culture and heritage, and is loved by women of all ages and body types.
While the saree is a relatively simple garment, there are many different ways to drape it. The draping style can vary depending on the region, the occasion, and the personal preference of the wearer.
In this visual guide, we will explore some of the most popular saree draping styles, from the traditional to the creative.
Types of saree draping from different regions of India
1. Nivi Drape
The Nivi drape is the most basic and common saree draping style. It is simple, elegant, and can be worn for any occasion. It is also a good style for beginners to start with.
To drape a saree in the Nivi style, follow these steps:
- Wrap the saree around your waist, with the pallu (the end of the saree that is draped over the shoulder) on the right side.
- Pleat the saree and tuck it into the waistband at the waist.
- Drape the pallu over the left shoulder and pin it in place at the back.
- Adjust the pleats and pallu as needed.
2. Pleated Drape
The pleated drape is a more versatile saree draping style than the Nivi drape. It can be dressed up or down, and is also more flattering for women with a curvier body type.
To drape a saree in the Pleated style, follow these steps
- Wrap the saree around your waist, with the pallu on the right side.
- Pleat the saree and tuck it into the waistband at the waist.
- Drape the pallu over the left shoulder and pin it in place at the back.
- Gather the pallu at the waist and tuck it into the waistband.
- Adjust the pleats and pallu as needed.
3. Gujarati Drape
The Gujarati drape is a traditional saree draping style that is popular in the state of Gujarat. It is characterized by its unique pleating technique and the use of a heavy pallu.
To drape a saree in the Gujurati style, follow these steps
- Wrap the saree around your waist, with the pallu on the right side.
- Pleat the saree and tuck it into the waistband at the waist.
- Drape the pallu over your left shoulder and pin it in place at the back.
- Bring the pallu to the front and drape it over the right shoulder.
- Adjust the pleats and pallu as needed.
4. Bengali Drape
The Bengali drape is a traditional saree draping style that is popular in the state of West Bengal. It is characterized by its simple and elegant draping technique, and the use of a light and airy pallu.
To drape a saree in the Bengali style, follow these steps
- Wrap the saree around your waist, with the pallu on the right side.
- Pleat the saree and tuck it into the waistband at the waist.
- Drape the pallu over the left shoulder and pin it in place at the back.
- Take the pallu to the back and drape it over the right shoulder.
- Adjust the pleats and pallu as needed.
5. Nauvari Drape
The Nauvari drape is a traditional saree draping style that is popular in the state of Maharashtra. It is characterized by its unique draping technique, which creates a dhoti-like effect.
To drape a saree in the Nauvari drape style, follow these steps
- Wrap the saree around your waist, with the pallu on the right side.
- Pleat the saree and tuck it into the waistband at the waist.
- Bring the pallu to the back and pass it between your legs.
- Drape the pallu over the front of your waist and tuck it into the waistband.
- Adjust the pleats and pallu as needed.
6.Mekhela Chador
The Mekhela Chador is a traditional Assamese saree draping style. It is characterized by its two-piece design, with the mekhela (the lower garment) and the chadar (the upper garment). The mekhela is a long, pleated skirt that is wrapped around the waist. The chadar is a long, flowing scarf that is draped over the shoulders.
To drape a saree in the Mekhela Chador style, follow these steps
- Put on the mekhela, with the pleats facing down.
- Wrap the chadar around your shoulders, with the ends hanging down in front.
- Bring the ends of the chadar around to the back and tie them in a knot at the waist.
- Adjust the mekhela and chadar as needed.
7. Coorgi Drape
The Coorgi drape is a traditional saree draping style from the Coorg region of Karnataka, India. It is characterized by its simple and elegant design, with the pallu (the end of the saree that is draped over the shoulder) being draped in a unique way to create a flattering silhouette.
The Coorgi drape is a popular choice for both formal and casual occasions, and is known for its versatility and comfort. It is also a great way to showcase the beauty of Coorg silk, which is a renowned handwoven fabric known for its softness and sheen.
To drape a saree in the Coorgi drape style, follow these steps
- Wrap the saree around your waist, with the pallu on the right side.
- Pleat the saree and tuck it into the waistband at the waist.
- Drape the pallu over the left shoulder and pin it in place at the back.
- Bring the pallu to the front and drape it over the right shoulder.
- Adjust the pleats and pallu as needed.
8. Mundum Neriyathum
The Mundum Neriyathum is a traditional Kerala saree draping style. It is characterized by its two-piece design, with the mundum (the lower garment) and the neriyathum (the upper garment). The mundum is a long, pleated skirt that is wrapped around the waist. The neriyathum is a long, flowing scarf that is draped over the shoulders.
To drape a saree in the Mundum Neriyathum style, follow these steps
- Put on the mundum, with the pleats facing down.
- Wrap the neriyathum around your shoulders, with the ends hanging down in front.
- Bring the ends of the neriyathum around to the back and tie them in a knot at the waist.
- Adjust the mundum and neriyathum as needed.
9. Madisarai Draping
The Madisarai drape is a traditional saree draping style from the Madisar region of Tamil Nadu, India. It is characterized by its simple and elegant design, with the pallu (the end of the saree that is draped over the shoulder) being draped in a unique way to create a flattering silhouette.
Steps to drape a saree in the Madisarai style:
- Wrap the saree around your waist, with the pallu on the right side.
- Pleat the saree and tuck it into the waistband at the waist.
- Drape the pallu over the left shoulder and pin it in place at the back.
- Bring the pallu to the front and drape it over the right shoulder, ensuring that the pallu falls in a graceful curve down your back.
- Adjust the pleats and pallu as needed.
10.Sambalpuri Draping
The Sambalpuri drape is a traditional Odisha saree draping style. It is characterized by its colorful and intricate designs. The Sambalpuri saree is known for its use of vibrant colors and intricate patterns. The fabric is typically made of cotton or silk and is often hand-woven.The Sambalpuri drape is a versatile style that can be worn for formal or casual occasions. It is often worn with a blouse or choli.
Steps to drape a saree in the Sambalpuri style:
- Wrap the saree around your waist, with the pallu on the right side.
- Pleat the saree and tuck it into the waistband at the waist.
- Drape the pallu over the left shoulder and pin it in place at the back.
- Bring the pallu to the front and drape it over the right shoulder.
- Adjust the pleats and pallu as needed.
Tips for Saree Draping
- Wrap the saree around your waist, with the pallu on the right side.
- Pleat the saree and tuck it into the waistband at the waist.
- Drape the pallu over your left shoulder and pin it in place at the back.
- Bring the pallu to the front and drape it over the right shoulder.
- Adjust the pleats and pallu as needed.
Conclusion
1. Wrap the saree around your waist, with the pallu on the right side.
Saree draping is a dazzling dance of fabric and culture, showcasing the beauty of India’s heritage. From the simple elegance of the Nivi drape to the intricate artistry of the Lucknawi drape, each style is a unique expression of Indian womanhood. So, embrace the saree and let your creativity flow. Experiment with different draping styles to find the one that makes you feel most confident and beautiful. You’ll be surprised at how easy it is to transform a simple piece of cloth into a work of art.
FAQs
Here are some engaging FAQs about saree draping styles:
1. What is the easiest saree draping style?
A: The Nivi drape is the easiest saree draping style. It is simple, elegant, and can be worn for any occasion.
2. What is the most popular saree draping style?
A: The Pleated drape is the most popular saree draping style. It is versatile and can be dressed up or down.
3. What is the most glamorous saree draping style?
A: The Mermaid drape is the most glamorous saree draping style. It creates a mermaid-like silhouette that is sure to turn heads.
4. What is the best saree draping style for a plus-size woman?
A: The Pleated drape and the Angarakha drape are both flattering saree draping styles for plus-size women.
5.What is the best saree draping style for a bride?
A: The Gujarati drape and the Nivi drape are both popular saree draping styles for brides.
6. What is the most creative saree draping style?
A: The Dhoti drape and the Mermaid drape are both creative saree draping styles that can be worn for special occasions.