How to wear a Saree a perfectly: Step by Step Draping Guide

The saree, six yards of eternal elegance is not just cloth; it's a proclamation of heritage, aesthetics, and poise. But for newbies, mastering how to wear a saree can be like solving a puzzle of pleats and pins. Fear not, we've designed this easy, step-by-step tutorial to guide you in draping a saree with aplomb, grace, and an essence of Roopkala Heritage style.

Why Learning to Wear a Saree Matters 

In Indian society, a saree is not merely a garment; it's a work of history, constructed with emotion and pride. Sarees represent grace and womanhood in weddings and festive celebrations.But for newbies, draping can be overwhelming. The reality is, with practice, anyone can learn it. And if you know how to drape a saree, then it's not merely about draping, it's about accessorizing the right way, blouse, and attitude to own the look. Discover Roopkala Heritage's designer sarees and choose the right piece to practice with.

Essentials You Need Before Draping a Saree 

Let's get started, but first, ensure you have these things ready:

• Saree - Pick one that is beginner-friendly, such as cotton or georgette, for simple
• pleating.
• Matching blouse - Fit it perfectly; not too tight, not too loose.
• Petticoat - Fasten it tightly around the waist so that the saree stays tucked in.
• Safety pins are the best way to keep pleats and pallu in place.
• Mirror: It's full-length, so you can check the drape's symmetry.

Tip: Skip silky fabric to begin with - gorgeous but slippery for novices.

 

How to Wear Saree: Step-by-Step Draping Instructions 

Below's the newbie-friendly how to wear saree guide:

• Tuck the Saree - Begin at your navel, tuck the plain end in towards the petticoat, and wrap once.
• First Round - Allow the saree to lie flat against the floor while you finish the first wrap.
• Make the Pleats - Take 5–7 tidy pleats (measuring about 5 inches wide), pile them, and tuck somewhat to the left of the navel into the petticoat. Pin in place.
• Drape the Pallu - Wrap the loose end (pallu) around your body and over your left shoulder.
• Pin Securely - Hold the pallu in place using a safety pin so that it will flow smoothly.

Pro Tip: For crisp pleats, iron the saree first and pin every fold as you create it.

Saree Pallu on Which Side? 

If you ever have wondered saree pallu on which side to wear it traditionally, in the Nivi drape, it's draped over the left shoulder. This keeps the right hand free.

In Gujarati fashion, the pallu is draped over the right shoulder. Whatever style you prefer, make sure the pallu is draped well and pinned in place securely for a classy fall.

 Things to Avoid When Draping a Saree 

• Uneven pleats take the time to line them up and iron them.
• A blouse that doesn't fit right can ruin the look, possibly change it.
• Low petticoat - Always tie at waist, and not the hips.
• The wrong fabric for the occasion: Always, silks for weddings and cottons for casual events.
• Not using pins might cause things to move and hurt.

How to Style Saree for Different Occasions 

Once you’ve mastered draping, here’s how to style saree for different events:

• Weddings & Festive - For weddings, wear heavy jewellery and fancy hairstyles with luxurious silks.
• Office/Formal - Pick muted colors in cotton or linen, keep accessories to a minimum, and make sure your pleats are neat.
• Casual Outings - uUse sarees that are Pre-Stitched, belt ornaments, and loose drapes.

Different Draping Traditions of  India 

India is home to countless draping traditions:

• Nivi style - The most popular draped, on the left side.
• Bengali style - Broad pleated and no shoulder pleats.
• Maharashtrian Nauvari - Nine yards, drape like a trouser.
• Gujarati Seedha Pallu - Pallu on right shoulder.
• Kerala Mundu Neriyathum - Two-piece, cream with golden borders.

Nivi is the focus of this guide, but investigating the others is an enjoyable next step.

Final Thoughts 

Learning to wear a saree is more about practice and less about perfection. Begin with a simple fabric and practice these steps; and before you know it, your drape will be as smooth as putting on a dress. The magic of a saree resides in its versatility. Once mastered, you'll possess not only elegance, but heritage, with each pleat. Shop exclusive sarees at Roopkala Heritage and start your draping journey today.

 FAQs 

1. Which saree draping style gives the illusion of being slimmer?

Choose the Nivi style with neat, small pleats and long pallu. Dark, solid colors and light-weight fabrics such as georgette make you appear slimmer.

2. What saree length is best for beginners?

A normal saree is 5.5 to 6 meters. Beginners should not go for long drapes until they're comfortable pleating.

3. How to keep saree pleats neat all day?

• Pin pleats one by one before tucking.
• Apply a light starch to cotton sarees.
• Restrict too much movement in heavy fabrics.

4. How to store sarees so they don't get damaged?

Fold the saree and put it in a cold, dry place. Don't hang heavy sarees for very long.

5. What saree fabric is suitable for hot weather?

Cotton, chiffon, and georgette are light and airy, making them suitable for summer.