Types of Saree Draping: A Celebration of Indian Tradition and Elegance

The saree, a quintessential garment of India, is not just a piece of fabric; it’s a symbol of grace, tradition, and timeless elegance. The way a saree is draped can drastically alter the way it looks and feels, making it a versatile outfit suitable for everything from casual wear to formal occasions. Across the diverse regions of India, different draping styles have evolved, each carrying its unique cultural significance and aesthetic appeal. This article explores the most iconic types of saree draping styles, offering a window into the rich textile heritage of India.

1. Nivi Draping Style (Andhra Pradesh)

The Nivi style, originating from Andhra Pradesh, is the most common and widely recognized saree draping style in India. It’s a simple yet elegant way to drape a saree, making it perfect for both formal and casual occasions.

How to Drape:

• Begin by tucking the plain end of the saree into the waistband of your petticoat on your right side.
• Wrap the saree around your waist once.
• Make pleats in the front (usually six to eight pleats) and tuck them into the petticoat.
• The remaining fabric is draped over the left shoulder as the pallu, with the end falling over the back.

The Nivi drape is often paired with a well-fitted blouse and minimal jewelry, allowing the pleats and the pallu to take center stage. This versatile drape is perfect for showcasing the patterns and embellishments on the saree.

2. Bengali Draping Style (West Bengal)

The Bengali saree draping style, popularized by films and television, exudes a vintage charm. Traditionally worn during Durga Puja and other cultural festivities, this drape highlights the elegance of Bengali women.

How to Drape:

• Start by tucking the saree at the waist and wrapping it around the body once.
• Instead of pleats, let the saree hang straight in the front.
• Take the pallu over your right shoulder and pin it.
• The key element is the second pallu draped from the back over the left shoulder, which is often left loose or pinned with a key accessory like a brooch.

This style is especially suitable for heavier sarees like silk or Banarasi, as the lack of pleats allows the intricate designs of the saree to be more visible.

3. Maharashtrian Nauvari Style (Maharashtra)

The Nauvari saree, meaning “nine yards,” is a longer version of the typical six-yard saree and is worn without a petticoat. This style, associated with the state of Maharashtra, gives women a warrior-like appearance and is often seen during festivals and weddings.

How to Drape:

• Since it's longer, the draping begins by wrapping the saree around the waist and then dividing it into two parts: one for the front and one for the back.
• The front part is pleated and tucked between the legs like a dhoti.
• The pallu is then draped over the shoulder in a way that allows free movement.

The Nauvari drape is ideal for physically active women as it provides freedom of movement, making it the preferred choice for traditional dance forms like Lavani.

4. Gujarati Style (Gujarat)

The Gujarati drape is distinct because of its pallu, which is brought to the front rather than being draped over the shoulder at the back. This style is often associated with bridal wear and festive occasions in Gujarat.

How to Drape:

• Start with tucking the saree in at the waist and wrapping it around once.
• Pleat the front portion and tuck it in.
• Take the remaining fabric and bring it over the right shoulder, with the pallu falling in front of the body.

This draping style is ideal for sarees with heavily embroidered pallus, as the front-facing drape highlights intricate designs, perfect for occasions like weddings and Navratri.

5. Kerala Mundum Neriyathum (Kerala)

The Mundum Neriyathum is a traditional two-piece saree from Kerala, typically worn in shades of white or cream with a golden border. This simple yet sophisticated drape is a symbol of purity and is often seen during the festival of Onam.

How to Drape:

• The lower piece, called the mundu, is draped around the waist.
• The upper piece, known as the neriyathum, is draped over the shoulder.

This minimalist style is often paired with traditional jewelry like gold chains and earrings, making it a favorite during celebrations and religious functions.

6. Kodagu Style (Coorg)

The Kodagu style of draping is unique to the women of Coorg in Karnataka. It is characterized by the pleats that are made at the back instead of the front, giving it a distinct appearance. This drape is usually worn for weddings or religious ceremonies in the region.

How to Drape:

• Begin by wrapping the saree around your waist and making pleats at the back.
• The pallu is taken over the right shoulder and secured with a brooch or pin.
• The remaining fabric is brought forward and tucked at the waist.

This draping style offers a regal and traditional look, perfect for showcasing the saree’s vibrant colors and patterns.

7. Tamilian Madisar (Tamil Nadu)

The Madisar drape is worn by the women of Tamil Brahmin communities, especially during religious rituals and weddings. It is traditionally draped with a nine-yard saree, like the Nauvari.

How to Drape:

• The saree is draped in a manner similar to a dhoti, with the pleats tucked between the legs.
• The pallu is draped over the shoulder, with the remaining fabric tucked at the waist.

This draping style has a cultural significance, as it is often associated with married women during auspicious occasions.

8. Lehenga Style

The lehenga saree draping is a modern take that combines the ease of wearing a lehenga with the elegance of a saree. It’s a popular choice among brides and for festive events.

How to Drape:

• The saree is draped like a lehenga skirt, with pleats made in the same way but tucked around the waist in a circular fashion.
• The pallu is draped over the shoulder like a dupatta, often pinned to stay in place.

This fusion style is ideal for those who want the traditional saree look but with a modern twist and easier movement.

9. Butterfly Style

A contemporary variation of the Nivi drape, the butterfly style is popular among Bollywood celebrities. It involves a thinner, more delicate pallu draped over the shoulder to resemble butterfly wings, highlighting the midriff.

How to Drape:

• Start with the Nivi drape but pleat the pallu very thinly.
• Let the pallu fall at the back or secure it at the waist with a brooch.

This glamorous drape is perfect for parties and red-carpet events, especially when paired with a heavily embellished saree.

Conclusion

The saree is a versatile garment that transcends regional boundaries and offers infinite possibilities for styling. From the traditional drapes of Gujarat and Tamil Nadu to the modern lehenga and butterfly styles, each draping technique brings out a unique facet of Indian culture and fashion. Whether you're attending a wedding, festival, or a formal event, there is a saree draping style that will complement the occasion and reflect your personal style.