Saree — six yards of sheer elegance. No other outfit is as versatile, timeless, and graceful as this traditional Indian attire. Whether it's a wedding, festive event, office party, or casual brunch, a saree can be styled in multiple ways to suit the vibe. If you're looking to up your saree game, you’re in the right place.
Here are 5 different ways to drape a saree, complete with styling tips and tricks to make you look like a total diva — no matter your body type or occasion.
1. The Classic Nivi Drape (Telugu Style)
Best For: Formal events, office wear, daily traditional look
This is the most common and easiest style that originated in Andhra Pradesh but is loved across India.
How to Drape:
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Tuck the saree into your petticoat starting from the right and go full circle.
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Make 5–7 pleats and tuck them in neatly at the center.
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Drape the pallu (loose end) over the left shoulder, letting it fall behind or pin it in place for a structured look.
Pro Tip: Use a belt or kamarbandh for a modern twist!
2. The Elegant Bengali Drape
Best For: Durga Puja, cultural events, traditional occasions
This iconic look with wide pleats and a dramatic pallu is a showstopper.
How to Drape:
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Begin like the Nivi style but make broader pleats and tuck in.
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The pallu comes from the back to the right shoulder, then wraps under the right arm and is placed over the left shoulder again.
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Secure it with a key ring or brooch for the full Bengali vibe.
Pro Tip: Pair it with a red bindi, big earrings, and a white saree with a red border for authenticity.
3. The Glamorous Gujarati Drape
Best For: Weddings, Navratri, sangeet nights
Want to flaunt a heavily embroidered pallu? The Gujarati style is your best bet.
How to Drape:
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After basic tucking and pleats, bring the pallu from the back to the front over the right shoulder.
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Spread it across the torso, tucking the end at the back left waist.
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This forward-facing pallu style is perfect for showcasing embroidery.
Pro Tip: Works best with Bandhani, mirror work, or embellished sarees.
4. The Trendy Lehenga Style Drape
Best For: Cocktail parties, modern weddings, bridesmaids
Why buy a lehenga when you can turn your saree into one?
How to Drape:
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Start tucking the saree in small pleats like a lehenga skirt all around.
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Make pleats of the pallu and pin it like a dupatta over your shoulder.
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The rest can flow or be draped across the waist like a sash.
Pro Tip: Choose a lightweight saree like chiffon, georgette, or crepe for easy movement.
5. The Contemporary Pant Style Drape
Best For: Fashion events, fusion functions, bold looks
This Indo-western drape is super chic and edgy. Great for experimenting with sarees in a non-traditional way.
How to Drape:
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Wear leggings, pants, or dhoti pants instead of a petticoat.
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Tuck and pleat the saree like normal but drape it around your pants creatively.
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The pallu can go across like a dupatta or pinned in an asymmetrical style.
Pro Tip: Use contrast blouses, crop tops, or jackets to elevate the fusion factor.
Final Thoughts
Whether you prefer classic elegance or contemporary chic, sarees can be styled endlessly. The key is experimenting with textures, drapes, and accessories. Don't shy away from safety pins and pre-draping practice. Confidence is the final touch that brings every drape to life.
🙋♀️ Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which saree fabric is best for beginners?
Opt for cotton-silk, chiffon, or georgette. They’re easy to manage, pleat well, and don’t slip too much.
2. How can I keep the pleats in place all day?
Use small safety pins to secure pleats to the petticoat or blouse. You can also use saree shapewear skirts with grip bands.
3. Can I wear sneakers or boots with a saree?
Absolutely! Fashion is all about expressing yourself. Pairing sarees with sneakers is trendy and comfortable, especially for casual or college looks.
4. What’s the easiest drape for a beginner?
The Nivi style is the easiest and most forgiving for first-timers.
5. How do I drape a saree without showing my midriff?
Go for high-waisted petticoats or saree shapewear, longer blouses, and drape the pallu in a way that covers the front (like the Gujarati style).
💡 Pro Tip: Want your saree to stay perfect all day? Start with well-ironed pleats, avoid slippery fabrics like pure satin, and always carry a couple of safety pins in your bag.
If you loved these saree draping styles, don’t forget to save this guide, share it with your BFFs, and maybe even have a saree styling party next weekend. 😍
Which style are you going to try first? Let me know in the comments!
