Last Updated on August 9, 2023 by
Sarees have been a staple in Indian wardrobes for about 5000 years and have remained a favourite for generations. From international red carpets to weddings, a saree never fails to make a statement. Rekha’s collection of classic Kanjivarams, Vidya Balan’s handloom sarees, and Sonam Kapoor’s modern take on the six yards; traditional and trendy, there’s no dearth of saree styles. Supremely comfortable and versatile, sarees work for both day and evening wear. Plus, there are many unique and refreshing ways to drape a saree. Keep reading to check out all the stylish ways to drape a saree.
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The Scarf Drape
An interesting take on the regular saree draping style, the scarf drape is as simple as it is unique. For this draping style all you have to do is, leave the pallu slightly longer, and drape the saree the usual way. Follow that up by draping the pallu around your neck like a scarf to give your regular saree a cool new makeover.
For this saree draping style we recommend: Cotton and Chiffon sarees
The Pant Drape
This saree draping style is the perfect balance between traditional and contemporary. Again, draped mostly like a regular saree but minus the petticoat. In this draping style, the petticoat is replaced with a pair of pants to tuck in the saree. This drape can be worn with jeggings, palazzos, dhoti pants, and even churidars. You can even add an embellished belt around the waist to elevate the look.
For this saree draping style we recommend: Crepe sarees
The Retro Drape
Popularised by the actress Mumtaz, this unique drape is also referred to as the Mumtax drape. Unique and timeless, this saree draping style is perfect for special occasions. This style involves draping the saree tightly around the lower half of your body. If draped correctly, the retro or Mumtaz saree drape is meant to accentuate your figure.
For this saree draping style we recommend: Georgette and Chiffon sarees
The Infinity Drape
A slightly complicated draping style, but gives a beautiful flowy look when done correctly. What sets this draping style apart from the rest is its pallu. In the infinity drape, one can’t tell where the pallu begins or ends. To nail this draping style, all you have to do is drape it per usual, and instead of taking the pallu back, bring it to the front over one shoulder. Then take the pallu and connect it with the pleats in front, and you’re done!
For this saree draping style we recommend: Satin sarees
The Dhoti Drape
Commonly worn by Maharashtrians, and traditionally called the Nauvari drape, this style is known for its ease of movement and comfort. Similar to the pant style drape, switch the petticoat with a pair of leggings. To nail the dhoti drape, you need to tie two corners of the saree in a knot around your navel. Make sure one side of the saree has more fabric to create the dhoti look by pleating it and tucking it in the back. Take the remaining fabric on the other side of the saree and turn that into your pallu.
For this saree draping style we recommend: Paithani Silk sarees
The Mermaid Drape
This saree draping style is worn in a way that it accentuates your waist by being fitted around the hips. The flared bottom of this saree gives the illusion of a mermaid’s tail. This kind of saree draping style is considered to be sophisticated and best for evening parties. Sarees with heavy borders work best for this draping style. What makes this draping style unique is that it has no pleats in the front, only on the pallu, and the bottom looks like a skirt.
For this saree draping style we recommend: Chiffon, Georgette, and Net sarees
The Lehenga Drape
This saree draping style is commonly chosen by brides and can be done in two ways. One, drape a second saree around your waist to create a skirt giving a heavier look and feel. The second is to wear a lehenga skirt and drape a saree around it to create the pallu. Add an embellished belt or a waist chain around the waist for a more defined look.
For this saree draping style we recommend: Half sarees
The Bengali Drape
This dual pallu style of draping a saree has been seen multiple times on screen. The traditional Bengali style of draping a saree is also called ‘aatpoure’ meaning eight folds. For this saree draping style make sure to keep the pallu long to get the desired look. Drape it per usual and create pleats for the pallu. Follow that up by throwing the pallu behind over the left shoulder, then bring it back in front over the right. This helps create a cowl effect in the back using the pallu.
For this saree draping style we recommend: Tant and Handloom sarees
To conclude, there’s more to these sarees popularly known as six yards of elegance than what meets the eyes. One saree in your wardrobe can be draped in different ways to meet the needs of different occasions. From everyday wear to special occasions, there is a saree and a draping style for all of them. Put your sarees to the best use with these draping styles to create a unique look every time.
Apart from that, if you are interested to know about Different Ways Of Styling A Dupatta then visit our Fashion category.
