The traditional saree is one staple that is in everyone’s cupboard. If it’s not in yours, I can guarantee you that it’s in your mum’s or grandmother’s wardrobe. An elegant saree is the one desi garment that has stood the test of time, retaining its grace and poise through the years.
A saree is one outfit that can be worn in a million ways — each state of India having its own style and drape. And while I totally appreciate the traditional ways of draping the saree, sometimes you just want to spruce the look up a tad bit, y’know give it a modern touch.
So if you’ve got your BFF’s wedding coming up or just want to wear the saree to a fancy event, let the designers at Lakme Fashion Week Winter / Festive 17 show you how to drape the saree and take your ethnic style up a notch this festive season.
1. Throw on a jacket.
If you’re planning to wear a saree in a colder climate then pair the drape with a light blazer or coat with a belt. You can also tie the belt at the waist and tuck your pallu into it.
2. Team it with cigarette pants.
Instead of draping pleats, go for something a lot looser in terms of the fall. Wear a pair of cigarette pants or narrow trousers of a lighter hue to give your saree more depth.
3. Belt it up.
Instead of using a belt, drape the saree pallu itself around your waist so that it secures the rest of the fabric. Pair the saree with a flare sleeved cropped top to give it a more trendy vibe.
4. Drape it like a scarf.
Instead of letting your saree pallu fall behind, take it over your neck and create a wrap-around scarf. This will work really well with light cotton or chiffon fabric.
5. Style it with a kurta.
Pleat your saree the regular way and leave the pallu on the side. Wear a kurta instead of a blouse and pull the pallu through the slits. Use the pallu as a rounded scarf to add more definition to the ensemble.