Sarees are more than just pieces of fabric; they are a symbol of grace, culture, and tradition in India. For centuries, women have worn sarees to express elegance and beauty. What makes sarees truly special is the many ways you can drape them. Each region in India has its own unique draping style, and Bollywood has made many of these styles popular. Brides also love sarees because they look timeless and beautiful on their special day.
If you are looking to try something new or want to learn how to drape sarees in different ways, this guide is for you. Let's explore some of the most iconic saree draping styles from Bollywood to bridal looks.
The Classic Nivi Draping Style
The Nivi style is the most common and popular way to drape a saree. It comes from Andhra Pradesh in South India.
- How to Drape:
- Tuck one end of the saree into the waistband of your petticoat and wrap it around your waist.
- Make neat pleats and tuck them in the front.
- Drape the pallu (the loose end) over your left shoulder.
- Bollywood Inspiration:
- Actresses like Rekha and Deepika Padukone often wear this style at awards and festivals.
- Perfect for:
- Weddings, festivals, and formal occasions.
Bengali Saree Draping Style
The Bengali saree drape is elegant and has a vintage feel. It is mostly worn in West Bengal.
- How to Drape:
- Wrap the saree around your waist and make broad pleats.
- The pallu is brought from the back to the front and draped over the right shoulder.
- Bollywood Inspiration:
- Aishwarya Rai wore this style beautifully in the movie Devdas.
- Perfect for:
- Bridal events and cultural festivals.
Gujarati (Seedha Pallu) Draping Style
The Gujarati drape is known for its unique way of bringing the pallu from back to front. It is commonly seen in Gujarat.
- How to Drape:
- Start like the Nivi style but bring the pallu to the front over the right shoulder.
- Spread the pallu neatly across the chest.
- Bollywood Inspiration:
- Rani Mukerji wore this style in Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham.
- Perfect for:
- Weddings and family gatherings.
Maharashtrian (Kashta) Draping Style
The Maharashtrian saree drape looks similar to a dhoti and is usually worn in Maharashtra.
- How to Drape:
- Use a 9-yard saree instead of the usual 6-yard one.
- Tuck the pleats at the back and bring the pallu over the shoulder.
- Bollywood Inspiration:
- Madhuri Dixit wore this style in Devdas.
- Perfect for:
- Religious ceremonies and festivals.
Lehenga Style Saree Draping
Lehenga style saree draping is a modern fusion that combines the look of a lehenga with a saree.
- How to Drape:
- Instead of pleats, drape the saree around like a lehenga skirt.
- Drape the pallu over the shoulder.
- Bollywood Inspiration:
- Sonam Kapoor has flaunted this style on the red carpet.
- Perfect for:
- Modern brides and cocktail parties.
Butterfly (Bollywood) Draping Style
The Butterfly drape is a glamorous version of the Nivi style with thinner pleats and a focus on the midriff.
- How to Drape:
- Make very thin pleats and drape the pallu over the shoulder.
- The pallu is often sheer and spread wide like butterfly wings.
- Bollywood Inspiration:
- Shilpa Shetty and Kareena Kapoor made this style famous.
- Perfect for:
- Parties and glamorous events.
Kerala (Mundum Neriyathum) Draping Style
The Mundum Neriyathum is a traditional saree drape from Kerala, known for its simplicity and elegance.
- How to Drape:
- The white saree with golden borders is draped with minimal pleats.
- The pallu is worn over the shoulder.
- Bollywood Inspiration:
- Vidya Balan often wears this style during Onam.
- Perfect for:
- Traditional festivals and weddings.
Contemporary Belted Saree Style
Adding a belt to the saree has become a trendy way to make the drape look more structured.
- How to Drape:
- Drape the saree in any style you prefer.
- Use a stylish belt or waistband to cinch the saree at the waist.
- Bollywood Inspiration:
- Deepika Padukone and Kangana Ranaut have rocked this look on the red carpet.
- Perfect for:
- Receptions and modern bridal looks.
Mermaid Style Saree Draping
The Mermaid style drape hugs the body and highlights curves, giving a slim and elegant appearance.
- How to Drape:
- Keep the pleats minimal and tight around the hips.
- The pallu is draped loosely over the shoulder.
- Bollywood Inspiration:
- Katrina Kaif has worn this style on fashion runways.
- Perfect for:
- Cocktail events and receptions.
Regional Draping Gems
India is full of beautiful regional saree draping styles. Here are a few worth mentioning:
- Coorgi Style:
- The pleats are tucked at the back, and the pallu is worn over the shoulder.
- Tamil Iyer Style:
- A 9-yard saree is draped in a traditional style, often seen in Tamil weddings.
- Assamese Mekhela Chador:
- This two-piece saree is draped elegantly with a unique pattern.
Tips for Choosing the Right Saree Draping Style
- Body Type: Choose styles that flatter your body shape. Mermaid and butterfly styles suit slimmer bodies, while Nivi and Gujarati styles are versatile.
- Occasion: Traditional styles for weddings and festivals, modern styles for parties.
- Fabric: Heavier fabrics like silk are better for classic drapes, while chiffon works well for modern styles.
- Accessories: Use belts, jewelry, and stylish blouses to enhance the look.
Conclusion
Sarees are timeless, but the way you drape them can make a huge difference. Whether you want a classic look for a wedding or a modern style for a party, there is a saree draping style for every occasion. Bollywood has inspired many of these looks, making it easy for anyone to try something new.
