A Silk Saree is an essential statement piece of the tradition and elegance. Draping a beautiful silk saree with the right styling will enhance your overall look for any wedding, festivals or occasion. Not sure how to tie it right? So, allow this step by step guru to help you learn the draping of silk saree so that you can dazzle on your next trip.
What Will You Need:
To wear a silk saree beautifully, you need to have certain things with you. Here’s what you need:
01- Silk Saree – Pick a silk saree that is in your favorite color or that suits your occasion There are varied designs and styles of silk sarees so choose the one that let you feel both beautiful and comfortable.
02- Blouse – It is essential to have a perfect fitting blouse in accordance with your saree. Depending on your style, you can opt for a traditional or modern design. A saree is incomplete without a blouse.
03- Petticoat– A petticoat made of plain white cotton is needed to tuck in saree in a way that it stays secure. Ensure that the shade of the petticoat is the same as the saree, for it must not be visibly distinct. It should also have a good fit at the waist for a clean drape.
04- Safety Pins – Safety pins help in holding the saree properly. The only difference is to use them to secure the pleats and the pallu (the loose end of the saree) so that everything stays in place even if you drape the saree a little loosely.
Now that you have these important items, you can prepped to drape your silk saree and walk out with style!
Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1: Put On A Petticoat
First of all, pull up a color matching ankle length cotton petticoat (sears it should be slightly loose fitting).
Step 2: Attach The Saree:
Secure the flat side of the saree with tucks and fasten in the waistband originating from the right side. The saree falls straight from the edge, this must equal the rest of the length so that it goes parallel to the floor.
Step 3: Making sure the pallu is secured by pin.
Hold your arms straight out with the pallu end of the saree. Hold the thicker edge by your shoulder, so that the blanket rests diagonally across the body. Now take the other end of the saree and drape it around your waist over the lower body clockwise, tucking the pleats in each time until you have neatly managed to tuck all of it in. You should keep the saree tight but not too tight as sagging may take place.
Step 4: Drape the Saree
Now that you are trained to drape the saree! Starting from the loose end, pick 5-7 inches of the saree in your hands and make forward and upwards motions so that the fabric folds in on itself. Remember when doing this that left must be the side that all of the pleats should face. I find that especially using safety pins to hold the pleats in one place makes it easier to move around later on and pinning it at the waist works best.
Step 5: The Petticoat Goes On
Next you have to make the pleats carefully and wrap the rest of the saree round your waist. Begin from the front end and follow by gradually moving the remainder of the body inside by pulling the end from your back. The petticoat is placenta at the waist, so make sure it looks even from every angle.
Step 6: Adjust Chepin of Shoulders
Final touches and let the remaining of the loose end of saree fall from left shoulder forming a double heart shape in the draped area. In order for the pallu fabric to be in a way that look neater the fabric needs to be below elbow.
Step 7: Completing the Task
For the ones of the pallu pleats and waistband, arrange them so every crease is straight and as they should be. Examine overall comfort and fit. To be extra secure a nice belt.
Tips for Drape a Silk Saree in the Most Efficient Way:
01- Practice: Draping is an art and if you are wearing saree for the first time, you might take a ‘few hours’ to practice draping it before the main event.
02- Comfy: Don’t pull the saree too tight on your abdomen else it can be distressing throughout the day.
03- Matching Blouse: Not only should the blouse piece be well fitted, but the color /design of the blouse should also match the saree.
04- Shoes: Stylish and Comfortable high heel shoes or traditional footwears are always best for a complete look.
Mistakes Made Out There (To Be Improved On):
01- Case of Messy Pleats: The more evenly arranged the pleats, the more structured the pleats will look.
02- Tight Saree: Just like everything, all one should be feeling comfortable and not all tight in the saree also.
03- The Length: The ply of the saree should be just above the ground. It should not be too long.
Final Thoughts:
Wearing a silk saree seems like a trick at a glance. Transitioning from Western styles to the traditional saree can be a major challenge. The trick is to gently drape it around your body, be aware of the pleats and pallu of the saree and most importantly, ensure that you are comfortable in it. Whether it’s draping for a family occasion, wedding ceremony or festive celebration, one goal to accomplish is look elegant and confident. Marinating a silk saree when doing so is a great way to marinate.
Now you have done all the following steps and learned how to tie and drape your silk saree and look elegant in it ! Check out silk sarees collection for elegant designs for all occasions. If you are looking for some of the more tips or how-tos on draping a saree, styling different kinds of silk saree, etc. then read further more !
You can also visit Swastika Sarees for designer sarees for any occasion.
You can also visit our blogs where we talk about the different kinds of sarees, styling tips and how to identify a pure kanjivaram silk saree with ease.