What is Draped Sari: The Draped Saree Meaning 

Do you like the look of draped sarees? Whether you’re a fashion lover or attending an Indian wedding, understanding the draped saree is key to appreciating this classic attire.  

This guide goes into great depth about the mystery of draped sarees, their long history, and why fashion lovers all over the world still love them. 

What is a Draped Saree? Understanding the Basics 

Many Indian women wear draped sarees, which are made of long fabrics (5 to 9 meters long) that are wrapped around the body without being sewn together. 

“Draped” means how the fabric is arranged on the body, usually by wrapping it around the waist, making pleats at the front, and placing the loose end (called the pallu) over the shoulder. 

The pallu, pleats, and border are the main parts of a draped saree. There are many ways to wear a saree, and different parts of India have their own styles. Most people put one end of the pallu into a petticoat, wrap it around their waist, pleat it, and then throw it over their shoulder. An important part of Indian culture and fashion, sarees are worn for everything from everyday wear to special events. 

How to Drape a Saree: Step-by-Step Tutorial for Beginners 

Draping a saree might seem tricky at first, but with practice, it becomes easy. Follow these simple steps to achieve the classic Nivi drape: 

What You’ll Need 

• A saree (5.5 to 6 meters long) 
• A petticoat (underskirt) 
• A blouse 
• 4-5 safety pins 

Steps to Drape a Saree 

1. Wear the basics: Put on the petticoat and blouse. 
2. Find the inner end: Locate the plain end of the saree (not the decorated pallu end). 
3. Tuck the starting point: Tuck this plain end into your petticoat on the right side of your waist. 
4. Wrap around: Wrap the saree around your waist once, going from right to left. 

Make the pleats

1. Create 5-7 pleats, each about 5 inches wide. 
2. Hold the pleats together and ensure they’re even at the bottom. 
3. Tuck the pleats into your petticoat at the center of your waist. 
4. Wrap again: Take the remaining fabric around your body once more, from left to right. 

Drape the pallu 

1. Bring the decorated end (pallu) over your left shoulder. 
2. Let it hang down your back, reaching below your knees. 

Adjust and pin

1. Adjust the height and fit as needed. 
2. Use safety pins to secure the pallu at your shoulder and the pleats at your waist. 

Tips for Beginners 

• Practice in front of a mirror. 
• Start with a cotton saree as it’s easier to handle. 
• Don’t worry if it’s not perfect the first time. It gets easier with practice! 

Keep in mind that there are various methods to make a saree. This is just the most popular way to do it. You can try other styles as you get used to this one.

6 Popular Draped Saree Styles: A Guide to Traditional Indian Wear 

India’s many saree draping styles are a reflection of its rich culture. These are some trendy looks you should be aware of:

1. Nivi Style: In the traditional way of wearing a saree from Andhra Pradesh, the pallu is draped over the left shoulder in a beautiful way, and the front pleats are neatly organized.

2. Bengali Style (Atpoure): In West Bengal, the saree is wrapped with a unique front fold that looks like a key. The pallu is pleated and pinned on the right shoulder.

3. Rajasthani Style: The Rajasthani Sari look has a special way of draping. The pallu goes from back to front, hanging nicely over the right shoulder.

4. Maharashtrian Style (Nauvari): The Maharashtrian Nauvari Saree is worn in a special way. It looks like pants and uses all nine yards of the cloth.

5. Mumtaz Style: Mumtaz-style saree hugs the body with a cape-like pallu, inspired by the iconic Bollywood actress.

6. Mekhela Chador: The Assam saree has two parts. The Mekhela is worn as a skirt, while the Chador is draped like a pallu. This unique style is special to Assam.  

Each style is important in its own culture. They can be a bit different in each area. These ways of wearing sarees show how varied Indian clothes are.

Which type of saree is easy to drape? 

For new saree wearers or those wanting an easy style, some types are easier to put on. Here’s a quick list:

1. Nivi Style Saree: This is the most common and easiest style to drape. 
2. Ready-to-Wear Sarees: These sarees come ready-made. The folds are already sewn in. Sometimes, the top part is attached too.
3. Light Fabrics: Chiffon, georgette, or light cotton sarees are easier to handle. 
4. Practice Sarees: Some shops sell cheap cotton sarees for practice. These are good for learning. You won’t worry about ruining costly fabric while you learn.
    

Remember, draping gets easier with practice. Start with a simple Nivi style using a light fabric, and you’ll gain confidence quickly. Would you like more detailed tips on how to make saree draping easier? 

Modern Saree Draping Ideas 

New ways of wearing sarees mix old and new styles. This gives different looks for many events.

New saree styles mix old and new ideas. People like using belts to shape sarees, or wearing them like pants for work. Some fold them like dhoti pants for a mixed look. Fancy styles include one-shoulder wraps and adding jackets.

For parties, some use ruffles or wrap the saree tight like a mermaid tail. These new ways help sarees fit many different places and times.

Bollywood and Beyond: Celebrity-Inspired Draped Saree Trends 

Movie stars change how people wear sarees. They start new styles that many fans copy.

Famous actors show new ways to wear sarees. Deepika Padukone wears them in a classic style with eye-catching tops. Sonam Kapoor tries new looks, like sarees with pants. Priyanka Chopra Jonas likes modern styles with tops that show her shoulders. Vidya Balan chooses old-style sarees made by hand, but wears them in new ways. Fans like to copy these different styles.

Conclusion

The saree is still an important part of Indian culture. It mixes old and new fashion easily. There are many ways to wear it, from old styles from different areas to new looks seen on famous people. You can do a lot with a saree, whether you’re just learning or trying new ideas. It keeps changing but stays beautiful.es and occasions.