Celebrated for its grace and versatility, sarees remain a beloved traditional outfit for women across all ages and body types. 

The journey of the saree could be a case study in timeless fashion. Different styles of wearing a saree and exuding elegance makes to the wish list of every Indian girl since the childhood. While fashion is age and era sensitive, ever wondered how sarees have captured hearts eternally?Self Print Faux Georgette Green Draped Saree After Six Wear-SASACY4665

In every weave, a saree offers customization, art, and flexibility that holds the ability to woo females across timelines.

Sarees have adapted with ease and innovation over decades, making it the most long-lasting fashion choice. From the traditional draping styles dipped in culture to the revolutionary modern saree draping styles, they can charm beyond boundaries. Printed Faux Georgette Cream Draped Saree After Six Wear-SASACY4664

Saree draping methods have undergone remarkable evolution, not only in terms of styles but also as a service. Currently the Indian saree market, is valued at around ₹80,000 crore (approximately $15 billion) and continues to witness rising demand both within the country and globally. 

This growth trend makes different styles of wearing a saree, a profitable profession and valuable skill. In this blog we share some amazing saree draping methods along with best suited occasions, body type, tips and more. Get ready to unwrap different styles of wearing a saree!Light Yellow Faux Georgette Shimmer Drape Saree Party Wear-SASCTBLISS1061

How to Drape a Saree: Step-by-Step Guide

Nivi or the basic saree draping is done in these three easy steps. 

Step 1: Tuck the non-pallu end of the saree in the petticoat at the right waist, then bring it around to the front.

Step 2: Now make pleats of even size and tuck them a little on the right of your navel.

Step 3: Then take your pallu and arrange it well on the left shoulder and pin it.Printed Yellow Faux Georgette Draped Saree After Six Wear-SASACY4661

9 Stylish Ways of saree draping methods for Different Occasions Including Body Type

Saree draping, an ancient skill, has evolved beautifully into modern styles over time exploring new ways to drape a saree. Let’s check the best nine styles here.

Style 1: Belted Saree Draping Method

Here the saree is paired with a belt at the waist to create a stunning look. It adds glamour and oomph. Belts can be embroidered, embellished, tassels or beads matching the saree.Black Satin Blend Saree With Sequins Blouse Party Wear-SADHYMMM0030

Suitable occasions:  Weddings, Housewarming, Engagements or other grand functions.

Best Body type: All types with a slim waist can use belts. 

Style 2: Cape Style

This is a modern saree draping style where a short cape is taken on the shoulders to add glamour and class. They too come in combination with sarees. Embellished, dazzling, thread-work and many more styles.Red Lycra Shimmer Pre Draped Saree Party Wear-SASACY6040

Suitable occasions:  Wedding receptions, royal parties, and glamorous occasions.

Best Body type: Pear shaped body looks super balanced in a cape with the shoulder commanding attention. 

Style 3: Sharara Style

Sharara pant with saree is trending with lot of Bollywood celebs. The flared bottom with a saree offers excellent combination of tradition with contemporary. Blue Satin Embroidered Sequins Pre Draped Exquisite Saree Party Wear-SASCE2802BU

Suitable occasions: Casual parties, dance and wedding sangeet events are perfect.

Best Body type: Suitable to all body types, best fit for tall girls. 

Style 4: Dhoti style

Ditching a petticoat for a legging and wrapping the saree in a dhoti style allows an innovative look and extreme comfort. This is often clubbed with a belt to complete the look.Green Shimmer Chiffon Khatli Hand Work Pre Draped Timeless Peplum Blouse Saree Wedding Wear-SASACZ2171

Suitable occasions: Wedding sangeet, dance party, friend’s wedding would be apt occasions.

Best Body type: While all body types can wear this, females with heavy thigs might want to avoid this.

Style 5: Mermaid Style

This is an innovation in the Nivi style of draping with the pleats being well spread around at the bottom. However, this requires draping support and some extra tucking and pinning. Teal Georgette Embroidered Sequins Cut Dana Work Pre Draped Beautiful Saree Party Wear-SASCE2809TU

Suitable occasions: Every occasion where you are expected to stand and walk around. 

Best Body type: A slim frame with an hour-glass figure looks perfect in this style.

Style 6: Dupatta Saree

This is a trend where after draping a saree, another dupatta is arranged on the free shoulder to add royal charm. In case of a bride, she might even prefer placing it on her head.Pista Green Georgette Embroidered Sequins Pre Draped Classy Saree And Jacket Party Wear-SASCE2807PS

Suitable occasions: Wedding of a family member or best suited for a bride. 

Best Body type: Appeals to all body types.

Style 7: Butterfly Style

Another modern version of the Nivi drape, popular with Bollywood celebs. The pallu is made into fan-like thin pleats on the shoulder, allowing emphasis on the waist line along with a designer bouse.Pink Georgette Embroidered Sequins Pre Draped Classy Saree And Jacket Party Wear-SASCE2807MO

Suitable occasions: Classy parties, wedding reception, award events etc. 

Best Body type: Hour glass figures look perfect in this. 

Style 8: Around the Neck Saree Style

How to drape a saree to make it look modern? You can try wrapping the pallu around the neck and steal the show. This scarf like look will make you look chic.Pink Georgette Stone Embossed Pre Draped Classic Saree With Blouse Party Wear-SASACY7339

Suitable occasions: Modern gathering, parties etc.

Best Body type: Suitable to all body types.

Style 9: Double Saree Draping

This is a unique way of draping two sarees together in layers to create a stylish and colourful look. 

Suitable occasions: Weddings, functions, gatherings are perfect for this.Black Satin Embroidered Sequins Pre Draped Exquisite Saree Party Wear-SASCE2802BL

Best Body type: Suits everyone, however, a slim fit body can handle the large volume of two sarees without looking voluminous. 

How to Drape a Saree: Tips for a Flawless Look

Hold on to these quick tips to make your draping journey easy. These come in handy during all ways to drape a saree. 

  • Use traditional accessories like keys on the pallu corner
  • Use safety pins for neat pleatsPista Green Georgette Embroidered Sequins Stone Pre Draped Ravishing Saree Party Wear-SASCE2805PS
  • Footwear is to be worn before you start draping
  • Blouse and petticoat fit matters
  • Add a nose ring and temple jewellery for authenticity

Summing Up: Different Ways of Draping a Saree

Saree is a legacy passed on since generations, and draping it beautifully is an art, we can learn in minutes. Saree draping may sound like a task only for the first few times, once you get the hang of it, you will be a pro.Blue Georgette Embroidered Sequins Cut Dana Hand Work Pre Draped Saree Party Wear-SASCE2804BU

Be confident and try different draping styles. Do not let the noise of the crowd curtail your ways to drape a saree. Remember to feel confident and value your self with a smile that can enhance your vibe.