How to Drape a Saree? Styles and Steps for Onam
Onam, the vibrant harvest festival of Kerala, is a time of celebration, tradition, and cultural expression, often highlighted by the stunning attire worn during the festivities.
At the heart of this celebration is the saree, a timeless garment that beautifully embodies Indian heritage.
This writing looks at the importance of the saree during Onam and presents different ways to wear it-from the classic Nivi to the elegant Bengali -and offers detailed instructions on how to achieve each style.
Prepare to embrace the festive spirit as we learn how to wear a saree for this special event!
Key Takeaways:
What is a Saree?
A saree is a traditional outfit from the Indian subcontinent, known for its grace, often worn at cultural events, weddings, and celebrations like Onam.
It generally consists of a long piece of fabric, usually six to nine yards, draped around the body, displaying a rich heritage of styles and wrapping methods that reflect India’s various cultures.
Whether for a South Indian wedding or a relaxed family event, wearing a saree links individuals to their cultural roots and lets them express their own style, making it a favorite for celebrities like Keerthi Suresh and Kavya Madhavan. For a deeper exploration of its cultural significance and history, National Geographic offers a comprehensive perspective on the story of the sari in India and beyond. See also: Traditional Indian Attire: Historical Roots and Cultural Significance, which further enriches the understanding of the saree’s place in India’s cultural tapestry.
What is Onam?
Onam is a lively festival mostly celebrated in Kerala. It marks the return of the legendary King Mahabali, representing wealth and plenty.
This ten-day event features traditional dances, boat races, and cooking delicious meals that unite friends and family in joyful festivity.
During Onam, the streets are decorated with detailed rangolis, and families wear their best traditional clothes, often choosing sarees that match the occasion, along with beautiful jewelry for sale to complete their festive look. This aligns with insights from Medium, which showcases the rich traditions and customs that make this festival so special.
Why is Wearing a Saree Important for Onam?
Wearing a saree during Onam is a key tradition because it reflects the rich customs of Kerala and its people. The saree, especially the traditional Kerala saree, showcases grace and fashion, making it a top choice for many women during this lively festival.
During celebrations, families wear beautiful sarees, which helps them feel connected and proud of their culture. It allows them to respect their traditions while making lasting memories with friends and relatives. According to Quora, the clothing patterns during Onam are not only about style but deeply rooted in cultural significance.
The saree is also important in South Indian weddings, highlighting its role in special occasions.
What are the Different Styles of Draping a Saree?
There are many ways to drape a saree, each reflecting the diverse cultures across India and showing personal fashion choices.
From the popular Nivi style, often worn today, to regional styles like Bengali and Gujarati, each method tells a story and honors the wearer’s background. The draping styles highlight the saree’s beauty and affect how it fits different occasions, from festive events like Onam to formal gatherings. For a deeper exploration of these regional styles, consider this guide on sari draping regional styles and techniques.
Fashion lovers can check out brands like NUPURA and GOLDEN PAISLEY to find beautiful sarees that match their personal style.
1. Nivi Style
The Nivi Style is a commonly used saree draping method, known for its stylish and modern appearance that works well for many events, such as festivals and weddings. Originating from Andhra Pradesh, this style emphasizes the beauty of the saree with its graceful draping and pleating techniques, allowing wearers to showcase their outfits beautifully while maintaining comfort and ease of movement.
To start draping a saree in the Nivi Style, choose lightweight materials like chiffon, georgette, or cotton, which are easy to drape and improve the smooth look of the outfit.
- Start by tucking the saree at the waist, ensuring the hem is at a desirable length.
- Create ample pleats at the front, securing them with pins for a polished finish.
- Drape the pallu over the shoulder and let it fall smoothly down the back.
When accessorizing, think about picking eye-catching jewelry like jhumkas or a chic choker. These can update a traditional look with a modern touch.
This way of wearing a saree is common for daytime events and formal evening gatherings, emphasizing the saree and the person’s style.
2. Bengali Style
The Bengali method of wearing a saree is well-known for its unique appearance and striking design. It usually features bright colors with contrasting borders, making it popular for celebrations like Durga Puja and Onam. This style emphasizes a wide pleated drape that showcases the beauty of the saree while adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to the overall look.
In this traditional draping method, the saree is generally wrapped around the waist with the end draped over the shoulder, creating a flowing outline that highlights the wearer’s presence. Fabrics such as silk, cotton, and georgette are commonly favored for their ability to hold form while ensuring comfort.
To go with this attractive outfit, think about wearing traditional jewelry like large gold necklaces, jhumkas, or detailed handmade pieces that display the rich cultural heritage.
Adding a small purse and stylish sandals can improve the outfit, making it perfect for events filled with tradition and celebration.
3. Gujarati Style
The Gujarati way of wearing a saree is known for its bright colors and detailed designs, showing the deep cultural traditions of Gujarat. This draping style is typically characterized by the way the saree is wrapped around the body, with the pallu often draped over the right shoulder, creating a beautiful and eye-catching look that suits both casual and formal occasions.
To get this stylish look, start by securing the saree at your waist and make sure it hangs nicely down to the ground. The saree is then wrapped around the body, around six to seven times, enabling the fabric to cascade beautifully.
After securing it, the pallu is pleated and thrown over the shoulder, allowing the unique patterns to take center stage. Wearing traditional jewelry like large jhumkas, decorative necklaces, and bright bangles can improve the overall appearance, adding more of the natural feel, color, and elegance that connect with the spirit of Gujarat.
4. Maharashtrian Style
The Maharashtrian Style of saree draping is distinctive and reflects the cultural heritage of Maharashtra, often worn during traditional celebrations and festivals. This style typically involves a unique draping technique known as ‘Nauvari’, where the saree is worn like a dhoti, allowing for ease of movement while maintaining elegance and grace.
This method highlights the skill of local textiles and focuses on the lively traditions of the region.
When selecting this way of draping, fabrics like silk, cotton, or the traditional Paithani can improve the overall appearance, providing comfort and a bit of luxury.
To complete the outfit, include noticeable gold jewelry such as traditional necklaces and bracelets to make the attire more eye-catching.
Pairing the saree with a distinctive nose ring and elaborate floral adornments can create a truly stunning appearance that honors the rich heritage of Maharashtra.
5. Tamilian Style
The Tamil way of wearing a saree follows tradition and is plain and tasteful, which makes it a favorite among women in Tamil Nadu. This style typically features a long pallu that is draped over the shoulder and can be worn in various ways, offering versatility for different occasions, from daily wear to festive celebrations.
This way of wearing a garment is strongly connected to Tamil culture, highlighting both the artistic talent and the community’s values and identity.
To achieve an authentic Tamilian drape, one should opt for cotton or silk sarees, which are known for their rich textures and colors, enhancing the overall aesthetic.
Bright colors such as dark reds, greens, and golds are commonly chosen, often decorated with detailed edges and patterns that represent cultural traditions.
This sartorial choice is an expression of grace, epitomizing the essence of femininity and elegance celebrated across generations in Tamil society.
How to Drape a Saree in the Nivi Style?
Wearing a saree in the Nivi Style looks graceful and appealing, making it a popular choice for weddings and festivals.
Start by selecting a saree that suits your body shape and personal style, as well as the event you are attending. Make sure the fabric and color match the festive atmosphere. For those curious about accessorizing, our guide on styling Nivi Sarees for weddings provides valuable insights.
1. Choosing the Right Saree
Picking the right saree is important for getting the look you want in the Nivi Style, as it impacts how the saree is wrapped and affects how comfortable and confident you feel. Consider the fabric, color, and design of the saree, ensuring it aligns with the occasion you are dressing for, whether it’s a casual gathering or a formal event.
Choosing a light fabric like chiffon or georgette adds flow and style, especially for events during the day. In contrast, heavier fabrics like silk or brocade may be better suited for weddings or galas, adding a touch of luxury.
Color is important; bright colors or floral designs work well for energetic events, while softer shades can give a classy look.
The design features, whether they have detailed embroidery or modern prints, should show personal style and match the mood of the event.
2. Preparing the Saree
Preparing the saree properly is essential for a flawless drape in the Nivi Style, ensuring that the fabric falls beautifully and maintains its shape. Start by ironing the saree to remove any wrinkles, which can hinder the overall look, and then lay it out flat to get a sense of how it will be draped.
As you lay out the saree, take a moment to inspect it for any damages such as loose threads, stains, or tears that could detract from its beauty. Solving these problems early leads to a better saree display.
Try using a garment steamer along with a regular iron for delicate fabrics. This will make each part smooth and attractive to the eye.
Hold the saree up to the light to spot any imperfections that may not be visible when lying flat, ensuring your outfit will shine at its best.
3. Tucking the Saree
Arranging the saree correctly is an important part of getting the Nivi Style right, as it lays the groundwork for the rest of the draping. Start by placing one end of the saree inside the waistband of your petticoat, ensuring it is tight and high so you can move comfortably.
Make sure the fabric fits closely to your body to avoid discomfort as you move. A neatly draped saree looks tidy and keeps its grace all day.
To achieve this, gather the drape in such a way that it contours to your waist naturally, avoiding any excess fabric that could lead to slips or discomfort. Using safety pins discreetly can help hold your pleats and pallu, ensuring that everything remains in place even when you move often.
Adjusting the pallu to be both stylish and secure will help you confidently showcase this timeless garment.
4. Making Pleats
Creating pleats is a key step in draping a saree in the Nivi Style, as it gives the saree shape and elegance. To create pleats, gather the fabric from the tucked end, ensuring that each pleat is of equal size, and pin them in place at the waist for a polished look.
Having pleats of the same size enhances the appearance and ensures the drapery hangs evenly. It’s essential to take your time during this process, carefully measuring and adjusting each fold to achieve that consistent width.
Once the pleats are formed, using safety pins or a sturdy fabric pin strategically will help keep them secure throughout the day. These secured pleats give the saree a neat appearance and help it maintain its shape, making the silhouette flattering for the wearer.
Neatly made pleats are important for improving the saree’s look.
5. Draping the Saree
Wearing the saree in the Nivi Style means arranging the pallu neatly to look beautiful and feel comfortable. Once you have formed the pleats, use the remaining fabric to cover yourself. Let the end fall over your shoulder to show off its design.
To make sure the pallu hangs smoothly, adjust by gently pulling the fabric until it is at the desired length, usually at or just below the waist.
For a flattering fit, it’s essential to secure the pleats neatly and position them at the center of your waistline.
When styling the saree for various occasions, consider complementing it with statement jewelry and appropriately styled hair. For formal events, a neatly pinned pallu may be ideal, while a more relaxed drape works wonders for festive gatherings.
Trying out various ways to drape can make the style more flexible, adding a personal flair.
How to Drape a Saree in the Bengali Style?
Wearing a saree in the Bengali Style highlights the beauty and quality of the fabric and adds a dramatic touch typical of Bengali culture.
This style is especially popular during celebrations and weddings, featuring bright colors and detailed patterns that capture the festive mood of the event.
1. Choosing the Right Saree
Choosing the right saree for the Bengali Style is essential to achieve the desired look, as the fabric and color choices play a significant role in enhancing the overall aesthetic. Choose sarees with rich textures and bright colors, often with detailed borders or patterns typical of Bengali art.
Choosing fabrics like silk or cotton provides the classic look found in Bengali clothing and keeps you comfortable during celebrations.
Colors hold deep cultural significance, with reds and greens symbolizing joy and prosperity, allowing wearers to express their connection to rich traditions.
By carefully adding these features, people can improve their personal fashion while honoring the culture that the Bengali saree symbolizes.
Therefore, by carefully selecting fabric texture and color, the experience of wearing these clothes becomes more enjoyable and meaningful.
2. Preparing the Saree
Preparing the saree is a key part of wearing it in the Bengali Style, ensuring the material looks good and remains secure throughout the day. Start by ironing the saree to smooth out creases, as a properly prepared saree will improve how it drapes.
Start with a flat surface to achieve the best results, using a steam iron set to an appropriate temperature for the fabric type. Make sure to check the saree thoroughly for any damages or loose threads that might affect the draping performance.
It’s essential that the saree feels smooth to the touch and lies flat, which helps in preventing any awkward bunching. By adding these extra steps, the wearer looks great and feels comfortable and confident throughout the day.
3. Making Pleats
Creating pleats is essential for wearing a saree in the Bengali Style, as it gives fullness and elegance to the appearance. Gather the saree fabric at the midsection, ensuring the pleats are evenly spaced and secured with a pin to maintain their structure.
To create beautiful pleats, begin by folding the saree fabric in equal sections, typically around 5 to 7 inches wide, depending on the desired volume.
After folding, carefully pinch the fabric to create pleats, ensuring all wrinkles are removed. To secure them properly, use a safety pin or stitch the base of the pleats, ensuring they remain intact throughout the day.
This process enhances the look of the drape and brings out the detailed designs of the saree, making it a great choice for any occasion.
4. Draping the Saree
Draping the saree in the Bengali Style is a captivating process that culminates in a dazzling display of elegance. After securing the pleats, take the remaining length of the saree and gracefully drape it over your left shoulder, allowing the pallu to cascade down your back or to the front as desired.
To achieve a genuine Bengali appearance, make sure the pallu has detailed designs that reflect tradition.
Pick eye-catching jewelry such as big gold earrings or a striking necklace to enhance the saree’s appearance.
When accessorizing, consider incorporating a stack of bangles or a statement ring to add a touch of glamour.
Choose a clutch or potli bag that mirrors the color palette of the saree, perfect for both casual gatherings and formal events.
This outfit will show elegance and highlight the deep cultural history of Bengali clothing.
How to Drape a Saree in the Gujarati Style?
Wearing a saree in the Gujarati Style is a way to show the lively culture of Gujarat. It mixes tradition with a modern look.
This style is known for its special way of draping that allows easy movement and makes the saree look impressive at festivals and celebrations.
1. Choosing the Right Saree
Picking the right saree for the Gujarati Style is important to make the draping easier and highlight the lively spirit of Gujarati culture. Choose sarees with striking patterns, vivid colors, and classic designs that match the festive mood.
These fabric and color choices improve the appearance and show the long-standing cultural traditions in the area.
Materials like silk, cotton, and chiffon have a nice drape, which makes it easy to wear the saree with confidence and style. The use of rich colors like dark reds, royal blues, and bright yellows shows the happy celebrations of Gujarati festivals and weddings, while detailed decorations and embroidery share stories of skill passed down over generations.
In the end, these choices are essential for showing personal style and respecting tradition.
2. Preparing the Saree
Getting the saree ready is important for draping it in the Gujarati Style, which allows the fabric to fall nicely and display its detailed patterns. Begin by ironing the saree to remove any creases and lay it out flat to visualize the draping process.
To get a smooth and neat finish, set the iron to the right temperature for the saree’s fabric, whether it’s silk, cotton, or georgette.
Carefully iron the fabric, going in one direction to prevent extra wrinkles. Focus on the pleats to improve how the fabric hangs.
After ironing, inspect the saree carefully for any damages, such as loose threads or small tears, which could detract from its overall appearance. Getting the saree ready beforehand makes it look better and makes it more comfortable to wear.
3. Making Pleats
Creating pleats is an important part of wearing a saree in the Gujarati Style, as it gives shape and grace to the look. Gather the fabric at the waist, ensuring that each pleat is of equal size and securely pinned in place for a polished look.
To make these pleats, you need to fold the fabric back and forth like an accordion, being careful to keep each fold the same width. This careful method improves the saree’s shape and makes sure each fold is neatly arranged, giving it a graceful detail.
After pinning the pleats, consider using a few stitches or a strong safety pin to keep them from shifting throughout the day. These consistent, neatly arranged pleats highlight the saree’s beauty, drawing attention to detailed designs, and give a royal feel to the entire outfit.
4. Draping the Saree
Wearing the saree in the Gujarati Style means arranging the pallu to show off the fabric and its detailed patterns. Once you have fixed the pleats in place, use the leftover fabric to cover yourself, allowing the pallu to drape smoothly over your shoulder, highlighting its colorful designs.
To make the pallu hang nicely, arrange the fabric so it falls to the side gently, letting it flow without overshadowing the entire shape.
To achieve a flattering fit, make sure the saree is tight around the waist but still allows for easy movement; a properly arranged pallu can highlight the curves nicely.
When styling this saree, one might consider pairing it with traditional jewelry for festive occasions or opting for minimalistic accessories for a chic, modern look.
Keep in mind, the Gujarati saree is flexible and easily fits in both informal meet-ups and big events, which makes it a must-have for any closet.
How to Drape a Saree in the Maharashtrian Style?
Wearing a saree in the Maharashtrian Style is a symbol of elegance and tradition, known for its distinctive method that looks like a dhoti, providing both fashion and ease.
This style is especially popular during cultural events and festivals, showcasing the cultural richness of Maharashtra.
1. Choosing the Right Saree
Picking the correct saree for the Maharashtrian Style is important to get the right appearance and represent the cultural traditions of Maharashtra. Pick sarees made from lightweight fabrics, with bright colors and detailed designs, ideal for gatherings.
The selection of fabrics such as cotton, silk, or a blend plays an essential role in ensuring comfort throughout the day, especially during celebrations that often last for hours.
The choice of colors can greatly affect the look and feel of a design. Bright colors often represent happiness and celebration, while darker shades can suggest sophistication and heritage.
When adorned with traditional motifs and patterns, these sarees become more than just attire; they tell a story of age-old customs and cherished family heritage.
Choosing fabric and color helps improve the draping experience and creates a sense of connection to Maharashtrian culture.
2. Preparing the Saree
Preparing the saree is essential for a flawless draping experience in the Maharashtrian Style, ensuring that the fabric falls beautifully and maintains its structure. First, iron the saree to get rid of any wrinkles. A neatly pressed saree improves the appearance.
This means setting your iron to the appropriate temperature based on the fabric type, with lighter materials requiring less heat compared to heavier ones.
Pay attention to the edges and pleats, as these areas can often retain creases if neglected. It’s important to thoroughly check the saree for any damages such as loose threads or snags, because addressing these issues in advance can prevent wardrobe malfunctions during wear.
Preparing the saree correctly makes draping easier and gives it a graceful appearance.
3. Making Pleats
Creating pleats is an important part of draping a saree in the Maharashtrian Style, as it gives shape and improves the look. Gather the fabric at the waist, ensuring each pleat is evenly spaced and securely pinned in place for a polished look.
To achieve the perfect pleats, start by folding the saree fabric neatly, ensuring that each fold maintains uniformity in size. This uniform look makes the saree more attractive and helps it hang beautifully.
When securing the pleats, use a strong safety pin or a stitch to hold them firmly, preventing any fabric from slipping out of position throughout the day. Adjusting the width of the pleats can influence the overall silhouette, so experimenting with different widths may yield a version that beautifully complements body shape.
Focusing carefully on these details greatly improves the classic appeal of the clothing.
4. Draping the Saree
Wearing the saree in the Maharashtrian Style involves arranging the pallu in a way that highlights tradition and elegance. Once you have made the pleats, use the leftover fabric to wrap around yourself, allowing the pallu to drape gently over your shoulder.
To complete this beautiful draping technique, it’s essential to adjust the pallu so that it drapes effortlessly, framing the face and enhancing the overall silhouette.
Make sure the pallu hangs comfortably, usually either just above the elbow or down to the waist, depending on what feels best and the event.
For a more formal look, consider adding decorative pins to secure the fabric, or let it flow loose for a casual outing.
Remember to choose lightweight fabrics for festive events and heavier materials for ceremonial occasions, allowing versatility while ensuring the saree flatters your figure beautifully.
How to Drape a Saree in the Tamilian Style?
Wearing a saree in the Tamilian style is a lovely way to show tradition and culture, known for being simple and graceful.
People enjoy this saree style because it’s suitable for both daily wear and special occasions, capturing the lively culture of Tamil Nadu.
1. Choosing the Right Saree
Choosing the right saree for the Tamilian Style is essential to achieve the desired look and reflect the cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu. Look for sarees that feature rich colors, traditional patterns, and comfortable fabrics, ensuring they are suitable for both casual and formal occasions.
Choosing the right fabrics improves how the material hangs, as different fabrics provide different levels of comfort and style.
Silk sarees look luxurious, while cotton sarees are practical for everyday wear, especially in warm climates.
Different colors have important cultural meanings. Bright colors can stand for good fortune and happiness, while lighter colors can suggest grace and style.
By carefully selecting fabric and color, wearers can improve their look while respecting the deep traditions of Tamil culture, turning each draping into a symbol of identity and esteem.
2. Preparing the Saree
Preparing the saree properly is essential for dressing in the Tamilian Style, allowing the fabric to drape smoothly and elegantly. Start by ironing the saree to remove any wrinkles, ensuring a smooth surface for the draping process.
Pay close attention to the fabric type, as different materials may require specific heat settings on the iron to avoid damage.
Once the saree is ironed, it’s essential to inspect it carefully for any snags, tears, or loose threads. Fix these problems before draping to make the saree look better and last longer.
Consider using a lightweight starch to give the saree additional stiffness, helping it maintain its shape throughout the day. Wearing a neatly arranged saree can improve your appearance and make draping it more pleasant.
3. Making Pleats
Creating pleats is a key part of wearing a saree in the Tamilian Style, as it gives form and elegance to the look. Gather the fabric at the waist, ensuring that each pleat is evenly spaced and securely pinned in place for a polished look.
To achieve this, start by folding the fabric in equal widths, typically around five to seven inches, depending on the saree’s fabric and style. It’s important to keep pleats even; if they aren’t, it can make the outfit look messy.
When securing the pleats, using safety pins or fashion tape can provide additional hold and prevent any slippage throughout the day. The placement of pleats significantly affects the saree’s visual appeal, highlighting its grace and the sophisticated elements of Tamilian culture.
4. Draping the Saree
Wearing the saree in the Tamilian Style involves neatly placing the pallu for a beautiful and graceful appearance. After securing the pleats, take the remaining fabric and wrap it around your body, allowing the pallu to fall beautifully over your shoulder, enhancing the overall elegance of the outfit.
To get the drape just right, make sure the pallu is arranged so it falls in gentle folds, giving it a relaxed look. It’s essential to balance the length and positioning of the pallu for a flattering fit that complements your silhouette.
When choosing accessories for this saree, select detailed pieces or a striking blouse that matches the colors and patterns of the saree. For festive parties, colorful jewelry can improve your look, while a simple style is better for formal occasions.
Keep in mind that feeling sure of yourself is important when choosing what to wear, so put it on with confidence!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a saree and what is its significance during Onam?
A saree is a traditional Indian garment worn by women, consisting of a long piece of cloth draped around the body in various styles. During Onam, the saree holds cultural significance as it is a traditional attire worn by women to celebrate the festival.
What are some popular styles of draping a saree for Onam?
Some popular styles of draping a saree for Onam include the traditional Kerala Kasavu saree, the Kasavu mundu style, and the classic nine-yard saree drape.
How do I drape a Kerala Kasavu saree for Onam?
To drape a Kerala Kasavu saree, start by tucking one end of the saree into the waistband of your underskirt, and wrap it around your body once. Then take the other end and drape it over your shoulder, letting it fall behind you. Lastly, tuck the end into your waistband and adjust the pleats in the front.
What is the Kasavu mundu style of draping a saree for Onam?
The Kasavu mundu style involves draping the saree around the waist and tucking it into the underskirt, and then pleating the remaining fabric and draping it over the shoulder like a shawl. This style is popular among young women during Onam.
What is the nine-yard saree drape and how is it worn for Onam?
The nine-yard saree drape is a traditional style of draping a saree for Onam, where the entire length of the saree is used to drape around the body. This style is typically worn by women performing traditional dances during the festival.
What are the important steps to follow while draping a saree for Onam?
Some essential steps for wearing a saree during Onam include ensuring the saree is well ironed, choosing suitable undergarments, and using safety pins to hold the pleats and pallu securely. It is also important to practice and perfect the draping style before the actual event.