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
- Wear the basics: Put on the petticoat and blouse.
- Find the inner end: Locate the plain end of the saree (not the decorated pallu end).
- Tuck the starting point: Tuck this plain end into your petticoat on the right side of your waist.
- Wrap around: Wrap the saree around your waist once, going from right to left.
Make the pleats
- Create 5-7 pleats, each about 5 inches wide.
- Hold the pleats together and ensure they’re even at the bottom.
- Tuck the pleats into your petticoat at the center of your waist.
- Wrap again: Take the remaining fabric around your body once more, from left to right.
Drape the pallu
- Bring the decorated end (pallu) over your left shoulder.
- Let it hang down your back, reaching below your knees.
Adjust and pin
- Adjust the height and fit as needed.
- Use safety pins to secure the pallu at your shoulder and the pleats at your waist.
Tips for Beginners
If you’re just starting out, begin by practicing in front of a mirror. Use a cotton saree at first, as it’s much easier to handle compared to slippery fabrics. And don’t stress if it doesn’t turn out perfect on your first try—saree draping gets easier with time and practice.
Keep in mind that there are many different ways to drape a saree. What you’re learning now is just the most common method. As you get more comfortable, you can experiment with other styles too.
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:
Nivi Style: The Nivi style is hands down one of the most classic and graceful ways to drape a saree. It hails from Andhra Pradesh and strikes a beautiful balance between simplicity and elegance. What is the major highlight? That flowing pallu, neatly tossed over the left shoulder, adds a touch of flair as it trails behind.
Front pleats are tucked in with care, giving a tidy, polished look. Whether it’s a regular day or a formal event, this drape never goes out of style — comfy, classy, and always effortlessly beautiful.
What makes the Nivi style even more special is how versatile. Whether you’re wearing cotton, silk, or georgette, this drape just works. Women all over India love it — and honestly, it’s won hearts always too, thanks to its timeless charm.
Bengali Style (Atpoure): The Bengali style, or Atpoure, brings a whole different beauty to saree draping. Rooted in West Bengal, it’s known for its signature front pleat that forms a unique, key-like shape — a beautiful nod to tradition.
The saree is first wrapped at the waist, then pulled across the front to create that distinct pleated fold right at the center of the stomach. It’s not just eye-catching; it hugs the curves in all the right places while keeping the look structured and poised. It’s graceful, nostalgic, and undeniably striking.
The pallu of this drape is where the magic really happens. Usually rich with embroidery or delicate detailing, it’s pleated neatly and pinned over the right shoulder — a subtle twist that sets this style apart. While most drapes let the pallu fall over the left, this one flips the script.
Rajasthani Style: The Rajasthani saree drape is just as colorful and full of character as Rajasthan itself. This popular style stands out with its signature flair. Instead of the usual left-shoulder pallu, the fabric here is brought from the back to the front and then draped over the right shoulder. And the result is a beautiful cascade of fabric flowing behind, adding a touch of royal elegance and old-world charm that’s hard to miss.
In this draping style, the pleats are carefully arranged at the waist and tucked in snugly to keep everything perfectly in place. The pallu — often decorated with gorgeous embroidery or traditional mirror work — is then swept over the shoulder, trailing down the back in one graceful motion.
Maharashtrian Style (Nauvari): The Maharashtrian Nauvari saree is truly one of a kind — bold, popular, and full of character. Worn mostly by women in Maharashtra, it gets its name from the nine yards of fabric it’s made from — “Nauvari” literally means nine yards. What makes it stand out? Instead of being wrapped like a typical saree, it’s draped more like a dhoti or pants, giving the look of a flowing skirt while offering way more comfort and freedom to move. It’s practical, powerful, and deeply rooted in cultural pride.
Draping a Nauvari saree starts with tucking it securely at the waist, then wrapping it around to form neat front pleats that add structure to the look. The real twist is that the back section is passed between the legs and tucked in, giving it that signature dhoti-style fit. The pallu is then brought over the left shoulder, flowing effortlessly down the back.
Mumtaz Style: The Mumtaz style is pure vintage glam, straight out of 1960s Bollywood. Made famous by the legendary actress Mumtaz, this saree drape turned heads then — and still does today. It wraps easily around the body, highlighting curves and creating a sleek, figure-hugging silhouette. There’s something effortlessly chic about it — a perfect mix of old-school charm and timeless elegance that still feels fresh.
What really sets the Mumtaz style apart is that dreamy, cape-like pallu. Instead of a simple shoulder drape, it wraps around the upper body like a soft shawl, adding a dose of drama and elegance. It flows down the shoulder with a regal touch, turning every step into a statement.
Mekhela Chador: The Mekhela is a beautiful, skirt-like garment that wraps around the waist in a wide, cylindrical shape. It’s pleated at the front with care, giving the whole outfit a clean, graceful look that flatters the figure. Soft, flowing, and super comfortable, it lets you move freely — perfect whether you’re going about your day or dressing up for a celebration. It’s elegant without trying too hard, and that’s what makes it so timeless.
The Chador — the upper piece of the Mekhela Chador ensemble — is as graceful as it is versatile. It’s usually draped across the chest and tossed over one shoulder, much like a saree’s pallu. Some let it flow freely, while others tuck it into the waist for a more polished look, totally up to personal style.
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:
- Nivi Style Saree: This is the most common and easiest style to drape.
- Ready-to-Wear Sarees: These sarees come ready-made. The folds are already sewn in. Sometimes, the top part is attached too.
- Light Fabrics: Chiffon, georgette, or light cotton sarees are easier to handle.
- 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 and occasions.
Anjali Gupta is a passionate advocate for Indian ethnic wear, specializing in sarees and blouses. With deep knowledge of traditional Indian fabrics and contemporary styles, she bridges the gap between heritage and modern fashion. Through her writing, Anjali provides practical tips on draping sarees, styling blouses, and embracing timeless elegance with confidence. Her work inspires women to celebrate cultural traditions while experimenting with fresh, stylish ideas.
