Are you a saree lover and want to explore different saree styling ideas?
If yes, then this blog is for you! In this post, I’ll be sharing how to wear a saree in various styles — from Bengali and Maratha to traditional and modern looks.
This guide is perfect for women from every culture who want to learn and experiment with saree draping styles.
To know more, just scroll down and explore the different styling ideas below!
5 Creative Ways to Wear a Saree| A Complete Guide on How to wear saree in different style
The Bengali Style
In this style you need to drape the pallu over your right shoulder by giving it a unique flair. In bengali style pleats are kept wider and the saree flows down from the waist creating an proper bengali type look.
How to wear bengali style saree
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Tuck the saree as you would with a cotton fabric applique saree, making sure the fabric falls evenly.
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Make broad pleats and pin them securely at your waist.
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Drape the pallu over your right shoulder, allowing it to fall gracefully at the back.
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Adjust the pallu to be draped either loosely or tightly, according to your preference.
Preferred for - Weddings, cultural events, and traditional festivals.
Modern Indo Western Style
If you love to experiment your look then draping saree in modern indo westerly style is for you. As its all about giving the six yards cloth a contemporary twist.
How to wear Indo-Western Style Saree
- Instead of wearing a regular blouse, drape your favourite saree with a crop top or a stylish shirt.
- Drape your gorgeous Kanjivaram or any party-wear saree without pleats at the waist to achieve a sleek, gown-like look.
- You can also try pairing your six-yard drape with leggings, pants, or even denim to make a bold statement.
- Tuck the pallu around your neck like a scarf or let it fall like a cape to create a chic, fashion-forward vibe.
Preferred for – This draping style is ideal for cocktail parties, fashion events, or receptions.
The Lehenga Style
This is the most trendy style as maximum modern days girl draping their six yard saree in this style. Making this style looking grand actually without wearing one
How to wear Lehenga Style Saree
- Instead of making one big set of pleats make smaller and continuous pleats all around the waist.
- Secure the saree with pin to get a neat and flared look.
- Drape the pallu elegantly over your shoulder like a dupatta.
Preferred For - This draping style is ideal for weddings, receptions or any grand occasion.
Nivi style Traditional South Indian Drape
The Nivi style is the most classic style and most widely worn saree draping style. especially in South India. This particular style is known for its simplicity. This drape can be neatly tuck on your waist with a proper pleating in the front and the pallu draped over your left shoulder.
How to wear a Nivi Style Saree
- Start with tucking - You should tuck the plain end of your saree into your peticoat, starting at your right side and going around your waist once from your right to left.
- Make 6-8 Pleats - Make 6-8 pleats in the front which is about 5 inches wide, and tuck them into the center of your waist, pointing them left.
- Take them remaining fabric - Take the remaining part of your saree and drape it around your back to left shoulder.
- Place the Pallu - Place the pallu over your left shoulder, allowing it to fall behind you. You can pin it in place or let it flow freely.
- Pleats and drape - Adjust the pleats and drape of your saree such a way that it looks both symmetrical and graceful.
Preffered for - Daily wear, Office Wear and Traditional Wear.
The Maharashtrian Nauvari Style
The Nauvari style is also known as Kashta Saree Draping Style which is also popular as Maharashtrian way of wearing a saree. Instead of 6 yard this is a 9 yard long saree and its draped without a petticoat which gives it a dhoti type look.
This style is both elegant and comfortable making it special for both festive and cultural events.
How to Wear Maharashtrian Nauvari Saree
- At first tuck the saree at the back of your waist and bring the saree to your front.
- Then divide the length of the saree into two parts between your legs and drape the saree just like a dhoti.
- Make the front pleats broader and tuck them at the center of your waist.
- Adjust the pleats of the pallu neatly so that it flows gracefully.
Preffered for - Ganesh Chaturthi or Maharashtrian weddings, and cultural festivals.
Conclusion
Saree is not just a piece of clothing; it’s a symbol of grace, elegance, and tradition. With so many different draping styles — from the classic Nivi and Bengali look to modern Indo-Western and glamorous Lehenga drapes — every woman can find a style that suits her personality and occasion.
Whether you prefer keeping it traditional for weddings and cultural events or experimenting with trendy Indo-fusion looks for parties, the saree gives you endless possibilities to express your style.
So, the next time you drape a saree, don’t be afraid to try something new. Pick a style from this guide, experiment with accessories, and make your saree drape uniquely yours!