The saree is more than just a garment; it is a canvas of culture, history, and personal expression. While the core concept of a single piece of fabric wrapped around the body remains, the way it is draped and styled tells a unique story. From the intricate folds of a traditional regional drape to the sleek lines of a contemporary silhouette, understanding different saree style is key to unlocking the full potential of this timeless attire.
However, the secret to a flawless drape isn’t just in the technique—it’s in the fabric. The fall, flow, and structure of your saree are determined by the material it is woven from. A crisp silk saree will hold a pleat with precision, while a lightweight georgette will flow with a fluid grace. This guide will walk you through some of the most iconic saree styles and show you how to choose the perfect fabric to bring each look to life.
A Journey Through India: Regional Saree Styles
India’s rich textile heritage has given birth to hundreds of different saree styles, each representing the unique culture and climate of its region.
1. The Bengali Athpourey Saree: Characterized by a broad pleat at the front and a key ring or key attached to the end of the pallu, the Athpourey drape is known for its elegant and functional simplicity. The pallu is brought forward over both shoulders, creating a distinctive and regal look.
- Ideal Fabrics: This style works best with fabrics that are light and airy, yet hold some structure. Lightweight silks, Tussar silk, and handloom cotton are perfect for achieving the elegant, relaxed fall of the Athpourey drape. The Shobhini collection of fine silk and cotton fabrics provides the perfect raw material for this classic style.
2. The Maharashtrian Nauvari Saree: Literally meaning “nine yards,” the Nauvari saree is draped to resemble a trouser, allowing for greater freedom of movement. It’s an iconic and highly structured drape that showcases power and tradition.
- Ideal Fabrics: The Nauvari style demands a fabric that is sturdy and can be pleated and tucked securely. Heavy silks like Paithani and Kanjivaram silk are the traditional choices. Their rich texture and weight help the saree hold its unique, pantaloon-like form.
3. The Gujarati Seedha Pallu: In this style, the pallu is draped from back to front over the right shoulder and spread across the chest. It’s a popular choice for showcasing intricate border work and heavy embellishments on the pallu, making it perfect for bridal wear and festive occasions.
- Ideal Fabrics: This drape works best with fabrics that are stiff and can hold a firm shape to highlight the pallu. Brocade silk, georgette, and net with heavy work are excellent choices for achieving this structured and decorative look.
The Modern Twist: Contemporary Saree Styles
Beyond the traditional drapes, modern fashion has introduced a variety of new and experimental saree styles, blending convenience with high fashion.
1. The Pant Saree: A fusion of traditional and modern, the pant saree replaces the conventional petticoat with a pair of trousers or leggings. This style is not only stylish but also incredibly comfortable and practical for a fast-paced lifestyle.
- Ideal Fabrics: This look requires fabrics with a good drape and flow. Fluid materials like georgette, chiffon, and satin are perfect for creating the illusion of a full saree over the pants without adding bulk.
2. The Mermaid Saree: This sensual style is tightly draped around the hips and flares out at the bottom, creating a mermaid-like silhouette. It’s designed to accentuate the curves of the body and is a popular choice for cocktail parties and red-carpet events.
- Ideal Fabrics: For this sleek style, you need a fabric that clings well and has a smooth texture. Lycra, silk blends, and certain kinds of satin are ideal for a form-fitting and flawless finish.
3. The Lehengha Saree: This is not a traditional drape but a hybrid garment that combines a pre-stitched lehenga with a saree pallu. It offers the elegance of a saree with the ease of wearing a lehenga.
- Ideal Fabrics: Fabrics with a beautiful fall like crepe, georgette, and silk are used for the skirt, while the attached pallu can be in contrasting materials like net or organza with delicate embroidery.
How to Choose the Right Fabric for Your Saree Style
The key to mastering different saree styles is understanding how fabric and drape work together.
- For Stiff Drapes: If you want your saree to hold its shape with clean, sharp pleats (like the Nauvari or Seedha Pallu), opt for structured fabrics. Raw silk, Banarasi silk, and even organza will give you the desired effect.
- For Fluid Drapes: To achieve a soft, flowing silhouette (like a simple Nivi drape or a Mermaid style), choose fabrics that have a beautiful fall. Georgette, chiffon, crepe, and lightweight silk are perfect for a graceful drape that moves with you.
- For Voluminous Drapes: If you want to add volume and flair, fabrics like net, velvet, or heavily embroidered silk are excellent choices. They add grandeur and make a bold statement.
FAQ: Unlocking the Secrets of Saree Styling
Whether you are a first-time saree wearer or a seasoned expert, these frequently asked questions will help you navigate the world of saree drapes and fabrics.
Q1. How can I wear a saree in different style? You can wear a saree in many different saree styles by experimenting with the pallu drape. Some popular methods include the classic Nivi drape, the elegant Bengali style, the functional Marathi drape, or modern fusion styles like the pant saree or the jacket saree. Your choice of fabric plays a crucial role in how well these drapes will hold.
Q2. Which fabric is best for a saree for a wedding party? For a wedding party, you need a fabric that is both festive and comfortable. Georgette, silk, and chiffon are excellent choices. Georgette sarees with heavy embroidery or sequins are perfect for dancing, while a silk saree offers a classic, luxurious look. Organza is also a trending choice for its sheer beauty and modern appeal.
Q3. What are the main types of sarees in India? India is home to an incredible variety of sarees, often named after their region of origin or the weaving style. Some of the most famous types include:
- Banarasi Silk Saree: From Varanasi, known for gold and silver brocade.
- Kanjivaram Saree: From Tamil Nadu, famous for its heavy silk and intricate motifs.
- Paithani Saree: From Maharashtra, known for its peacock and floral designs.
- Chikankari Saree: From Lucknow, recognized for its delicate white thread embroidery.
Q4. What is the best fabric for a daily wear saree? For daily wear, comfort and durability are key. Cotton, linen, and art silk are the most suitable fabrics. They are breathable, easy to maintain, and can be worn for long hours without feeling uncomfortable.
Q5. How can I make my saree pleats perfect? The secret to perfect pleats lies in the fabric and a good technique. Structured fabrics like silk hold pleats well. Start by making even, crisp pleats of the same width. You can use clips or safety pins to secure them while you drape the rest of the saree. A hot iron can also help to set the pleats before you tuck them in.
