Saree Draping for Beginners: A Step-by-Step Guide

A saree looks complicated until you have done it once. After a couple of tries, the whole drape takes less than ten minutes. This guide covers the classic Nivi style, which is the most common and the easiest to learn.

What you need

• A saree of about 5.5 metres (six yards).
• A fitted blouse.
• A petticoat in a matching or neutral shade.
• 6 to 8 safety pins and flat footwear you plan to wear.

Step 1: Wear the right base

Put on the blouse and petticoat. Tie the petticoat at the waist at the height you want the saree to sit. Wear the footwear now so the length is right.

Step 2: Tuck in the start

Take the plain end of the saree and tuck it into the petticoat at the right side of your waist. Wrap it once around your body, ending back at the front. The bottom edge should just touch the floor.

Step 3: Make the pleats

Gather the remaining fabric and make 5 to 7 even pleats of about 5 inches each. Hold them together and check that the edges line up, then tuck them into the waistband, pointing towards the left.

Step 4: Arrange the pallu

Take the remaining length across your back and over the left shoulder. Let it fall to about knee level. Pin the pallu to the blouse at the shoulder so it does not slip.

Step 5: Final adjustments

Pin the pleats to the petticoat, check that the hem is even and tuck in any loose parts. Walk a few steps to test comfort.

Tips for a neat drape

• Lighter fabrics such as cotton, georgette and chiffon are easier for beginners than heavy silk.
• Iron the saree beforehand so the pleats sit crisply.
• Choose a blouse that fits well, because it frames the whole look.
• Practise once at home before the event.

Ready to start? Browse our sarees in easy-to-drape fabrics, and see our guide to a wedding guest saree for the next step.