If you’re looking to make an impact at events, sarees are an undisputed timeless classic. But how you dress usually steals the show, more so than the actual saree. If you choose the right style of draping, a simple saree can be a conversation starter. If you’re fond of sarees and are looking to up your attire for parties, This guide is ideal for you.
From understanding what’s best with your particular body shape to effective draping techniques, we’ll be going through it all. At the end of this article, you’ll understand how draping isn’t only a technique but an art.
Why Draping Matters for Party Wear Sarees
Yes, the material and the embellishments on a saree are crucial. Have you noticed that women enter an area and instantly appear at ease in a saree? This is the power of expert drapes. They flatter your silhouette, enhance your outfit, and reveal your fashion.
The drape plays an important role in party wear sarees, weddings, and other high-energy events. These kinds of events are when you’ll need to take the spotlight. Whether you’re opting for a simple georgette saree, a heavily sequined dazzler, or a stunning partywear saree for a wedding, how you drape it will determine the look you want to achieve.
Matching Draping Styles to Your Body Type
The thing about sarees is that they’re flexible enough to suit almost anyone. However, the way you wear it can make you go anywhere from “meh” to magnifique. Begin by identifying the shape of your body and choosing the draping style that best complements your shape.
Hourglass Shaped
This body type is easy to match with any style. You can choose the classic nivi drape or play around with pleats that are structured to highlight your shape.
Pear Shaped
Accentuate your upper body by draping the pallu over your shoulder. A Bengali or seedha drape can be used to balance proportions.
Apple Shaped
Choose drapes that give the illusion of a slimmer waist. A Gujarati-style drape, or the lehenga technique, can be very effective.
Straight Figure
You can add volume by pleats of ruffles or sarees with pre-stit. A mermaid-style saree can give the appearance of curves.
The goal isn’t to adhere to the rules but rather to discover how shapes and styles can help you enhance rather than hide your greatest characteristics.
Different Draping Styles for Party Wear Sarees
You’ve heard about the importance of draping — great! Here are some styles that you can choose according to your style and the event.
1. Classic Nivi Draping
The OG draped style that we are familiar with. It involves elegantly sewing pleats around the waist and leaving the pallu to fall gracefully over the shoulders. This can be worn with any saree. However, it is best suited to light fabrics such as silk or chiffon.
Ideal to use for weddings, informal parties, and any event that requires classic elegance.
2. Lehenga-Style Draping
Who said sarees were only about shoulder pallus and pleats? The lehenga fashion involves tying your saree in the form of a skirt with pleated layers. It’s dramatic and works well with heavily embellished sarees for parties.
Great to wear for weddings and events where you need to be bold and elegant.
3. Belted Draping
Are you looking for a modern design? Put a fashionable belt on your waistline to secure the pallu. It not only keeps your saree in place, however, but it also adds structure to your appearance. Extra points for if you pair the belt with other accessories.
Ideal to use for Drink parties or office functions with a contemporary dress code.
4. Mermaid Drape
This cut hugs the lower part of your body, which emphasizes your body’s curves. The pallu is a bit longer and more wide, creating an elegant, dramatic flow. It’s great for sarees with intricate borders.
Ideal to use for Weddings with a grand style or lavish parties when you’re really looking to highlight the fabrics’ details.
5. Pant-Style Drape
Fusion vibes? Anyone? Wear your saree with cigarette pants and tie the pallu in a loose, billowy fashion to add some chic points. Perfect for casual to semi-formal gatherings.
Great For: Professions that are innovative who attend office parties or themed events.
6. Gujarati Style
For all those drama queens (we are referring to that in a positive manner), The pallu in this drape will be the main focus. It stretches across your chest and onto the shoulder opposite.
Great ideal for traditional weddings or celebrations in the region in which the heritage shines brightest.
How to Recreate These Drapes (Step-by-Step)
Classic Nivi Drape (Quick Explainer)
1. Start on the left side, and then tuck the edge of the saree into your petticoat.
2.The saree should be wrapped completely around and placed on the front.
3.Make sure the pallu is neatly folded and secure it to the shoulder.
Lehenga-Style Drape
1.Make large pleats, and then secure the pleats as you wrap them over your body as the skirt.
2.The remaining fabric should be wrapped from waist to shoulder.
3.Layer lightly to add the desired volume.
Belted Drape
1.The saree can be draped loosely over your shoulders.
2.Put on a belt that is a statement at the waist to give it some shape.
3.Make sure you tidy up extra fabric for the perfect appearance.
Styling Your Saree for That Perfect Party Look
Color-matching and accessories can make your saree look more stylish and take it up a notch. Be aware of these guidelines:
Jewelry
Balance is the key. If your saree has been heavily decorated, choose subtle jewelry (think elegant danglers or Cuff bracelets). Simpler sarees are great to pair with statement pieces, such as chokers and layered necklaces.
Footwear
Choose wedges or heels that complement the look of the saree. Juttis, with embroidery, can bring a touch of elegance to traditional designs.
Clutch or Potli
A small-sized bag is not only functional, but it also adds style to the look of your outfit. Metallic colors are generally a hit here.
Hairstyle
A messy bun for classic styles, as well as loose waves to add a casual look. Just ensure that it matches the neckline of your saree.
Buy Fabric Online for Matching Blouses
Many parties wear sarees, and weddings require matching blouses. Are you looking for a combination of fashion and comfort? Check out fabric swatches online or buy fabric online to design your own custom-made outfits.
Step Into the Spotlight
Your saree drape isn’t only an opportunity to dress in the six yards of fabric. It’s an integral part of your character. No matter if you’re wearing the classic look or going out with a fusion-inspired look, be bold and fun with how you dress.
When you are planning your next party, take a chance to experiment with a fashion that represents you. Every dress deserves a drape that is a reflection of the person wearing it.
