The saree, one of the most iconic and versatile garments in Indian ethnic wear, represents centuries of tradition, craftsmanship, and regional identity. Worn across India in countless ways, each region has its own unique style of draping a saree, reflecting cultural heritage and local influences. From the graceful pleats of Bengal to the regal drape of Maharashtra, saree draping has evolved to signify not just beauty but the diversity of Indian culture. In this blog, we’ll take a journey through the different saree draping styles from various regions of India, each carrying its own story and significance. 1. Nivi Style – Andhra Pradesh The Nivi drape, originating from Andhra Pradesh, is the most widely recognized and popular saree style across India today. This style is elegant, practical, and universally flattering, which is why it’s worn by women across the country in daily life, formal events, and even on the runway. How it’s Draped: The saree is wrapped around the waist, and pleats are neatly tucked into the front. The pallu (the loose end) is then draped over the left shoulder. The pleats are aligned in front, creating a formal yet graceful look. Occasions: The Nivi drape is versatile and works for almost every occasion—be it casual wear, office attire, or festive functions. 2. Bengali Style – West Bengal The fascinating manner of draping saree known as Bengali style drape is an age-old style and a regular feature in Indian films especially Bollywood and even in the Durga Puja festival. Its simplicity and sophisticat ion are ordered of draping style as they are to rich cultural back ground of Bengal s history How it’s Draped: To drape a Bengali saree, start by tucking the saree around your waist and bringing it around your body without making pleats. Pull the pallu over your left shoulder and bring it back around to the front of your right shoulder. Secure the pallu with a key ring or brooch for an authentic Bengali look. Occasions: Bengali drape has a certain ancient style and elegance with its vanity it incorporate disturbs during puja s like durga, weddings and other celebrations of people. 3. Maharashtrian Nauvari Style: Maharashtra Nauvari saree drape has to be one of the most creative and distinct way of draping a saree in India. This style of draping the saree is also known as nauvari as in a nine yard draping. It is a style that sings of the shore bravery of the women from maharashta, who would often dress in this way back in the maratha empire. How it is Draped: Start by wrapping the saree around your waist and tucking it in, then pull the fabric between your legs and tuck it at the back like a dhoti. Drape the pallu over your shoulder or across your chest, securing it with pleats for a traditional Nauvari look. Occasions: This attire is frequently spotted during the traditional Maharashtrian festivals, weddings and cultural programs. It is also donned by women active participants in any religious or folk performance. 4. Gujarati Style – Gujarat The main distinguishing feature of the Gujarati saree draping technique is the method of pallu and reverse pleats. Every saree draping style finds its roots in some part of the cultural history, and this one is no different as it even includes cultural aspects of Gujarat and Rajasthan, which naturally fits in those merry occasions like Navratri. How it’s Draped: In this manner the waist pleats a tucked at the back and the pallu is taken from behind the right shoulder across and towards the front over the chest. The pallu end usually is allowed to sag or pinned to the waist. Occasions: This is a common draping style for families particularly during Garba nights of Navratri, weddings and other functions of the culture. 5. Kodagu Style – Karnataka The Kodagu design (Coorg or Kodava saree) features a pattern exclusive to the Kodava people of the Indian state of Karnataka. This style is generally adopted by women commonly at traditional festivals and mass marriages. How it’s Draped: The pleats in this saree drape are formed in the posterior instead of the frontal aspect and the pallu is thrown on the shoulder and fixed in place. It is usually matches with ethnic ‘Coorgi’ styled ornamentation which adds to its beautification. Occasions: This style is majorly done during the marriages and the famous Puthari harvest festival in Coorg. 6. Mundum Neriyathum – Kerala Mundum Neriyathum is the famous saree draping style of Kerala that dates backs centuries. It consists of two unstitched block fabrics, the bottom being worn is the mundu and the top drape is called neriyathu. How it’s Draped: The lower piece of saree (mundu) is firmly wrapped around the waist while the upper piece of saree (neriyathu) is draped over the left shoulder in a manner similar to that of pallu. The saree in this case is white or cream with strips of gold making it quite elegant but not overbling. Occasions: This style is very common during the Onam festival and other traditional events in the state of Kerala. 7. Assamese Mekhela Chador – Assam Mekhela Chador is also an attire typical for Sāmi men and women of Sām. In Assam, a Mekhela Chador is worn instead of a saree which is the costume for the Assamese women. Not a saree in true sense, but it is something that is worn in a similar fashion. How it’s Draped: The Mekhela is a skirt worn below the waist, while the Chador is a piece of cloth that is worn above the waist over the left shoulder. The front of the chador has pleats that are folded down and tucked in. Occasions: The Mekhela Chador is commonly worn in Bihu, weddings, and Assamese cultural functions. 8. Tribal Styles – Jharkhand, Odisha, and Madhya Pradesh In certain areas of Jharkhand, Odisha, and Madhya Pradesh, tribal women wear their sarees in a certain way that bonds them with nature and also

Welcome to our guide on how to style a casual saree for festivals, where we help you blend comfort with elegance! In this blog, you’ll discover simple yet effective ways to drape and accessorize sarees for a laid-back yet festive look. From choosing the perfect lightweight fabrics like cotton or Chanderi to adding the right touch of ethnic jewelry and footwear, we’ll show you how to create an effortless and chic ensemble. Whether you’re attending a daytime celebration or a small festive gathering, our tips will help you elevate your saree style with ease, ensuring you look graceful and radiant while keeping things casual. Styling a casual saree for a festival with an ethnic touch can make you look both elegant and festive without being overly formal. Here’s how you can achieve this balance while keeping your look comfortable and chic: 1. Choose the Right Fabric Opt for lightweight fabrics that are easy to drape and comfortable to wear for long hours:Cotton: Crisp and breathable, perfect for daytime festivals.Linen: Adds a sophisticated touch while staying casual.Chanderi: Light silk blends or Chanderi cotton with subtle sheen.Mulmul/Cotton Silk: Soft, airy, and perfect for casual elegance.Khadi: Offers a rustic, ethnic charm while being eco-friendly. 2. Pick a Minimalist or Handwoven Saree Handloom Sarees: Choose traditional handloom sarees like Ikat, Ajrakh, Jamdani, or Kalamkari to give an ethnic, earthy vibe.Subtle Patterns and Colors: Go for minimal designs like geometric patterns, small motifs, or nature-inspired prints. Avoid heavy embellishments for a more casual look.Festive Colors: Stick to warm or bright colors like mustard, rust, indigo, teal, maroon, or pastel shades with a hint of gold or silver borders. 3. Blouse Styling Contrasting Blouse: Pair your saree with a contrasting blouse to add a pop of color. For example, a plain saree can be styled with a printed or embroidered blouse.Traditional Blouses: You can opt for blouses with ethnic embroidery like mirror work, gotta patti, or hand block prints to add an ethnic touch.Offbeat Blouses: Experiment with blouse styles like boat neck, elbow sleeves, or even a sleeveless blouse with ethnic detailing to keep the look modern yet festive.Crop Tops/Kurtis: Pair your saree with a crop top or short kurti for a boho, Indo-fusion twist. 4. Accessorize Smartly Statement Jewelry: Opt for one or two statement pieces:Silver or Oxidized Jewelry: Chunky silver earrings, jhumkas, or layered necklaces work beautifully with a casual festival saree.Terracotta Jewelry: Adds a rustic, handcrafted touch, especially with earthy-toned sarees.Ethnic Bangles/Bracelets: A set of bangles, a cuff bracelet, or a kada adds a festive vibe.Minimal Jewelry: If your saree has a bold pattern, keep the jewelry minimal with delicate earrings and a single bracelet. 5. Footwear Juttis or Mojaris: Perfect ethnic footwear to complement your look without going too formal.Kolhapuri Sandals: Ideal for casual comfort with an ethnic touch.Flats or Block Heels: If you prefer a little height, opt for block heels or wedges with traditional designs like embroidered or beaded patterns. 6. Belt the Saree Add a waist belt (or kamarbandh) to your saree to give it a structured look. Choose a metallic, fabric, or embroidered belt that matches your ethnic style. It’s a modern trend with a nod to tradition and helps keep the saree in place. 7. Ethnic Hair Accessories Style your hair in a loose bun or side braid and accessorize with ethnic hairpins or floral gajra (flower garland) for an ethnic vibe.Maang Tikka: Wearing a simple maang tikka can instantly elevate your look without overwhelming it. 8. Makeup and Hairstyle Minimal Makeup: Keep your makeup soft and natural with a focus on glowing skin. To add an ethnic touch, add a bindi. Bold Lips: A pop of color on the lips like deep red, maroon, or a bold coral will complement the casual saree look.Kohl-Rimmed Eyes: Smudge a bit of kohl or eyeliner for a festive look that’s not too overpowering. 9. Ethnic Potli or Clutch Carry an ethnic potli or a small embroidered clutch to enhance your festive look while keeping it casual. Opt for pieces with beadwork, tassels, or mirror work that add a festive flair. 10. Draping Style Simple Nivi Style: The most traditional and effortless drape for a casual yet elegant look.Belted Drape: To create a contemporary ethnic style, tighten the saree at the waist with a belt.Open Pallu: Let the pallu flow loosely over your shoulder for a relaxed, graceful style. By combining these elements, you can style a casual or party wear saree for a festival with an ethnic touch, creating a balanced and comfortable look that still feels festive and traditional.