SAREE DRAPING TECHNIQUES

Nivi Draping Style (Traditional Style)

The Nivi drape is the most common and traditional way of wearing a saree, widely recognized for its elegance and simplicity. Start by tucking the plain end of the saree into the petticoat, making sure the lower edge just touches the floor. Wrap the saree around your waist once, making sure it’s snug and falls evenly. Gather the pallu (the loose end) and pleat it neatly. Over your left shoulder, drape the pleated pallu and pin it securely. Adjust the pleats at the front for a smooth and well-structured look. This drape is versatile for everyday wear, weddings, and festive occasions.

Bengali Style Saree Draping

This unique drape originates from Bengal and is known for its regal and graceful appearance.Begin by tucking the saree into the petticoat at the waist. Instead of wrapping it once, you wrap the saree twice around your waist for a fuller, more voluminous effect. Pleat the pallu neatly and, instead of letting it fall over one shoulder, bring the pallu across the front and over the opposite shoulder, securing it with a pin. Arrange the pleats at the front, ensuring they fall elegantly.This style is characterized by the pallu being worn in a way that it covers the front.

Gujarati Style Saree Draping

The Gujarati style is distinctive for its pleats and the way the pallu is worn over both shoulders.Start by tucking the saree into the petticoat, with the plain end at the back. Drape the saree around the waist once and tuck it securely. Make pleats in the pallu, and instead of pinning it to one shoulder, drape it over the other shoulder like a shawl. Pin it at both shoulders to hold it in place. The pleats should fall evenly at the front.This draping style gives a fuller look to the saree and allows the pallu to be showcased beautifully.

Maharashtrian Saree Draping

This draping style is traditional in Maharashtra and is typically worn during festivals, weddings, and cultural events.Begin by tucking the saree into the petticoat at the back. Drape the saree around your waist like a lungi (wrap), bringing it between the legs and tucking it into the petticoat at the back. Create pleats at the front for a neat look. The pallu is brought around your waist, tucked at the back, and then over the left shoulder. Ensure the pleats and pallu are neatly arranged, and pin the pallu securely.This style allows for comfort and freedom of movement while keeping the saree elegant and traditional.

Lehenga Style Saree Draping

The lehenga-style saree draping combines the grace of a saree with the volume and flare of a lehenga, perfect for weddings and grand celebrations.Start by tucking the saree into the petticoat at the waist, as you would with the Nivi style. Drape the saree around your waist, but instead of making pleats, let it flow freely to create the lehenga effect. At the front, create soft pleats and secure them with a pin. Drape the pallu over your shoulder, either leaving it hanging or making pleats and securing it. Adjust the pleats and drapes to ensure they fall gracefully and securely.This style creates a royal look and is especially popular during bridal wear.