The sari has always been one of India’s most elegant dress styles. Young girls often watch the women in their family drape their saris for work or for special events and try and copy them for the same. The garment holds a special place as heirloom pieces, passed down through generations. It is a timeless garment that reflects cultural heritage and personal style. South Asian women have been draping their silk and cotton fabrics since the Indus Valley civilization. Through India’s history, from the Mughal era to colonization, saris have been a staple in Indian women’s wardrobes.

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No matter how it is worn, it exudes grace and style. Mastering these draping techniques can take your style to the next level. Here, we discuss different ways on how to wear a saree, from variations across India and beyond.

  1. The Gujarati Style

    First is the Gujarati style, which actually has the pleats at the back and the pallu in the front. It is a traditional, and covers the whole front of the bodice. There is great freedom of movement with this style. Especially because the shoulder is not carrying the weight of the embroidered pallu. As a styling tip for Indian wear, it is a great style to wear with heavier materials.

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  2. The Bengali Style


    In the Bengali style, the pleats fall at the side of the body, giving it a unique and interesting appearance. The pallu is draped over the left shoulder and brought back around. This sari can be accessorised with a belt, and other traditional Bengali jewellery. These saris are usually white with a red border, and can be different materials. From the Dhaka jamdani sari to the Bengali cotton sari, it is the perfect Indian wedding dress style.
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  3. The Deepika Style (Nivi Style)


    This style has been the most popular kind for how to wear a sari. It has been made famous by actress Deepika Padukone. This style is adapted from the Nivi style of Andhra Pradesh. It is the epitome of what we imagine when we think of saris. Pleat the sari and tuck it into the petticoat. The pallu is then taken from the back and placed over the left shoulder. This style gives the illusion of height. It also makes people look elegant and sophisticated.

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  4. The Front Pallu Drape


    This drape is perfect for heavier materials, and to show the intricate work on the pallu. The best way on how to wear a saree like this is to pleat the saree at the waist and bring the pallu from the back to the front over the right shoulder. Then, pleat the pallu neatly and allow it to fall gracefully.
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  5. The Mumtaz Style


    The Mumtaz style drape is one of the most interesting ways to wear a sari. Inspired by the iconic actress Mumtaz, this style involves tight pleats. This sari is visually interesting with its zigzag pattern across the petticoat. Styling tips for Indian wear with this sari is to lean into the vintage charm. Add vintage-inspired jewellery and channel Mumtaz with a beehive updo.
    Mauve Silk Cut Work Embroidered With Blouse Elegant Saree Festive Wear

     

  6. The Lehenga Style


    This style involves bigger pleats and a larger hoop skirt to achieve the lehenga look. Here, the pallu can be draped over the shoulder or wrapped around the waist. With this Indian wedding dress style, it is all about the illusion of the grace of a sari, combined with the ease of the lehenga.
    Teal Blue Chinon Silk Ready Pleated Saree

     

  7. The Saree with Pants Style


    For a modern bride or bridesmaid, the saree with pants style has become popular. Styling tips for Indian wear for this style involves choosing pants that suit your body type. Whether flared or fitted, the material of the sari should flow easily to give the best look. Combining the traditional sari with a contemporary twist, this is perfect for any trendy occasion.
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  8. The Double Saree Drape


    This is a great way to show off two saris at the same time. The trick on how to wear this sari is to drape the first sari as usual. Then, layer the second sari over the shoulder or across the body. This style adds layers and creates volume. It is the perfect Indian wedding dress style to make a big statement and look royal.

    Multicolor Sequins Georgette Saree

     

  9. The Indo-Western Saree Drape


    With more and more people looking to saris for comfort, blending it with a modern twist is the way to go. How to wear saree like this would be to pair it with a modern blouse like a crop top. Or, one can drape the pallu like a shawl or across the waist. As a styling tip for Indian wear, one can also accessorise it differently with a belt and sneakers.
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  10. The Maharashtrian Style


    This sari originates from the Koli community in Maharashtra. This sari is rich in tradition and culture. Draped without pleats and brought from the back to the front, this is traditionally worn with a nauvari sari. This sari is a nine-yard piece of fabric in a rich material which adds volume to the look.
    Timeless Maroon Chanderi Silk Zari Woven Saree    This Indian wedding dress style is accessorized with heavy gold jewellery on the body and in the hair.