# How to Drape a Saree: Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners The saree is one of the most iconic and elegant garments in the world. Originating from the Indian subcontinent, this traditional attire is worn by women of all ages for various occasions—be it festivals, weddings, or everyday life. However, draping a saree can seem like a daunting task, especially for beginners. If you're someone who's never worn a saree before or is struggling to get the perfect drape, don't worry! In this guide, we'll take you through the entire process, step by step, so you can confidently drape your saree like a pro. A saree is a long piece of fabric, usually around 6 to 9 yards, that is draped around the body in various styles. It’s an ancient garment and remains one of the most versatile outfits in the world, with various regional draping styles. Whether you're wearing a silk saree for a wedding or a cotton saree for a casual outing, knowing how to drape it properly can enhance your overall look. Draping a saree might seem complicated at first, but with a little patience and practice, you’ll be able to master it. So, let’s dive into this step-by-step guide on how to [drape a saree](https://yuvti.co.in/collections/saree) for beginners. Types of Sarees and Draping Styles ---------------------------------- Before we get into the steps of draping a saree, it's important to know that there are different types of sarees and draping styles. Depending on the occasion, fabric, and personal preference, you may choose to drape your saree in a style that suits you best. Here’s a quick overview: ### Types of Sarees: 1. Cotton Sarees: Lightweight and breathable, perfect for casual wear or during hot weather. 2. Silk Sarees: Rich and luxurious, often worn during weddings and festivals. 3. [Georgette Sarees](https://www.myntra.com/georgette-saree): Flowing and lightweight, ideal for parties and formal events. 4. Chiffon Sarees: Soft and elegant, offering a graceful fall. ![image](https://hackmd.io/_uploads/Bkp_Ro5akx.png) ### Popular Draping Styles: 1. Nivi Style: The most common and simplest drape, where the saree is wrapped around the waist and draped over the shoulder. This is the style we'll focus on for this guide. 2. Bengali Style: The saree is worn with a pallu over the left shoulder, with the pleats in front. 3. Gujarati Style: The pallu is draped over the right shoulder with the pleats gathered in front. 4. Maharashtrian Style: A more traditional style where the saree is draped to look like a dhoti, with pleats at the back. For beginners, the Nivi style is the easiest and most popular style to start with. Essential Accessories for Draping a Saree ----------------------------------------- Before you start draping your saree, you’ll need a few accessories to make the process easier and ensure a neat look. Here’s a list of essential items: 1. The Saree: Choose the saree according to your preference and the occasion. For beginners, cotton or georgette sarees are easier to manage. 2. Blouse: The blouse is the upper part of the outfit. Make sure it fits well and complements the saree. A well-fitted blouse can give you a more flattering look. 3. Petticoat: A petticoat is a type of underskirt worn beneath the saree. It provides support and structure. It is essential to wear a petticoat that matches the color of your saree. 4. Safety Pins: Safety pins are crucial for keeping the pleats in place and ensuring the pallu stays in position. 5. Optional Accessories: Jewelry, like bangles, earrings, and necklaces, can add a finishing touch. You may also want to choose comfortable footwear since the saree can sometimes make you more conscious of your step. Step 1: Preparing the Saree and Body ------------------------------------ The first step in draping a saree is getting your body and saree ready. Here’s what you need to do: 1. Wear a Fitted Blouse and Petticoat: Start by wearing a blouse that fits comfortably. Make sure the blouse is well-fitted around your bust and waist. Next, wear a petticoat that matches the color of your saree. The petticoat should be snug but not too tight around your waist, as it needs to hold the saree in place. 2. Tuck the Petticoat: The petticoat should be tucked into the waistband. The lower edge of the petticoat should reach the floor, as this will give the saree a smooth drape. 3. Prepare the Saree: Take the saree and unfold it. Make sure there are no wrinkles or folds in the fabric. Lay the saree out in front of you, and ensure that one end is held in your left hand, and the other end is free to start draping. Step 2: Draping the Pleats -------------------------- The pleats are one of the most important parts of draping a saree, and they must be neat and even to achieve the perfect look. Here’s how to do it: 1. Make the Pleats: Starting from the right side of your body, take the saree and begin folding it into pleats. The pleats should be about 5-6 inches wide, depending on the length of the saree and your body shape. 2. Ensure the Pleats Are Even: It’s important to make the pleats as even as possible. Hold the fabric between your thumb and index finger as you fold, ensuring they are straight. 3. Pin the Pleats: Once all the pleats are folded neatly, gather them together and hold them in place. Pin them at the center to keep them intact. Step 3: Drape the Saree Around Your Waist ----------------------------------------- Now that the pleats are ready, the next step is to wrap the saree around your waist. Here’s how to do it: 1. Tuck the Saree into the Petticoat: Take the saree and tuck one end of it into the petticoat at your right side, just above your waist. Make sure the saree is tucked securely so that it doesn’t shift. 2. Wrap It Around Your Waist: Hold the other end of the saree and wrap it around your waist once. The fabric should be wrapped smoothly and securely, with no loose edges or folds. 3. Tuck the Saree at the Back: After wrapping the saree around your waist, tuck the remaining fabric into the petticoat at the back, ensuring it’s neat and snug. Step 4: Bringing the Pallu Over the Shoulder -------------------------------------------- The pallu is the loose end of the saree that drapes over your shoulder. Here’s how to style the pallu: 1. Drape the Pallu Over Your Left Shoulder: Take the free end of the saree (the pallu) and bring it over your left shoulder. The pallu should hang down your back, with the decorative or embellished part of the fabric facing outward. 2. Adjust the Length of the Pallu: The length of the pallu should fall to your waist or slightly below it. You can adjust it based on your preference or the type of saree you’re wearing. Step 5: Secure the Pallu with a Pin ----------------------------------- To ensure that the pallu stays in place and doesn’t slip off your shoulder, use a safety pin: 1. Pin the Pallu: Pin the pallu securely to your shoulder using a safety pin. Be careful not to make the pin too tight, as you want the fabric to drape naturally. 2. Adjust the Pallu: Once the pallu is pinned, adjust it to your liking, making sure it hangs gracefully. Step 6: Final Touches and Adjustments ------------------------------------- Once the saree is draped, it’s time to make any final adjustments for a perfect look: 1. Adjust the Pleats: Make sure the pleats are aligned properly and fall evenly. They should be neat and tidy without any wrinkles. 2. Ensure Comfort: Adjust the saree around your waist to ensure it’s comfortable and not too tight. It should fit snugly without causing discomfort. 3. Tuck Any Loose Ends: Check for any loose ends or untidy folds and tuck them in. Styling Tips for a Perfect Saree Look ------------------------------------- Now that you’ve draped your saree perfectly, it’s time to add some finishing touches to complete your look: 1. Hairstyle: Whether you prefer a loose hairstyle, a bun, or a braid, your hairstyle should complement the saree. A bun or braid is a classic choice for a formal or traditional look, while loose hair can look more casual and modern. 2. Jewelry: Add statement jewelry like earrings, bangles, or a necklace. The jewelry should match the fabric and color of your saree. 3. Footwear: Choose comfortable footwear, especially if you plan to be standing or walking around for a long time. Heels can elevate the look, but flat sandals or traditional footwear like juttis can also work well. Common Mistakes to Avoid ------------------------ While draping a saree, beginners often make a few common mistakes. Here’s what you should avoid: 1. Uneven Pleats: Always make sure your pleats are even and the right length. 2. Loose Pallu: Ensure that the pallu is pinned securely to avoid it slipping off. 3. Incorrect Petticoat Fit: The petticoat should be well-fitted and not too loose. 4. Not Adjusting the Saree for Comfort: The saree should sit comfortably around your waist, not too tight or too loose. Conclusion ---------- Draping a saree may seem like a challenging task at first, but with practice, you’ll find it easier and more enjoyable. Start by practicing with a simple cotton saree, and as you get more confident, you can experiment with different fabrics and draping styles. Remember, the key to wearing a saree is confidence. Once you master the basic draping technique, you’ll feel comfortable and look stunning every time you wear one.