Classic nivi, Bengali and other styles: Here are 5 ways to drape your saree this festive season

The Nivi style, one of the most common and elegant ways to drape a sari, involves pleating the fabric on one side and draping it around the waist and over the shoulder. (Image: Canva)

Are you ready to make a statement this festive season? Let's talk about sarees! The sari, a timeless garment, is a staple for Indian festivities. Its versatility allows for countless draping styles, each with its own charm and elegance.

Want to know how to drape your sari like a pro? From the classic Nivi style to the Cossack style, there's a draping style to suit every taste. Let's dive in!

Classic nivi style:

Perfect for: Formal events, weddings, and receptions.

How to: The Nivi style, one of the most common and elegant ways to drape a sari, involves pleating the fabric on one side and draping it around the waist and over the shoulder. The pallu, the unstitched end of the sari, is typically draped over the shoulder.

To achieve the perfect Nivi style, start by pleating the sari on one side, ensuring the pleats are even and neatly arranged. Wrap the pleated section around your waist, securing it with a petticoat or a belt. Drape the remaining length of the sari over your shoulder, allowing it to flow gracefully down your back. Adjust the pleats and pallu as needed to create a flattering and elegant look.

Bengali style:

• Perfect for: Casual gatherings, cultural events, and festivals.

• How to: The Bengali style is similar to the Nivi style, but with a longer pallu that is looped around the front and then draped over the shoulder. The pleats are typically shorter. To achieve the Bengali style, start by pleating the sari on one side, ensuring the pleats are even and neatly arranged.

• Wrap the pleated section around your waist, securing it with a petticoat or a belt. Drape the remaining length of the sari over your shoulder, allowing it to flow gracefully down your back. However, instead of draping the pallu directly over your shoulder, loop it around the front of your body, passing it through your legs and then over your shoulder. Adjust the pleats and pallu as needed to create a flattering and elegant look.

• Perfect for: Traditional occasions and regional celebrations.

• How to: The Marathi style is a classic and elegant drape that showcases the beauty of the sari's fabric and patterns. To achieve the Marathi style, start by pleating the sari at the back, ensuring the pleats are even and neatly arranged. Drape the pleated section over your shoulder, allowing it to flow gracefully down your back. The pallu, the unstitched end of the sari, is then looped around the front of your body and tucked into the pleats.

• This creates a unique and visually appealing effect. The length of the pallu can be adjusted to suit your preference, but it is typically long enough to reach your ankles. To complete the Marathi style, consider adding a decorative belt or a piece of jewelry to enhance the look. The Marathi style is a versatile drape that can be adapted to suit various occasions and personal styles. Whether you're attending a formal wedding or a casual gathering, the Marathi style is sure to make a statement.

Gujarati style:

• Perfect for: Festive gatherings and religious celebrations.

• How to: The Gujarati style is a unique and elegant drape that showcases the beauty of the sari's fabric and patterns. To achieve the Gujarati style, start by pleating the sari at the back, ensuring the pleats are even and neatly arranged. Drape the pleated section over your shoulder, allowing it to flow gracefully down your back. The pallu, the unstitched end of the sari, is then looped around the front of your body, passing it through your legs and then over your shoulder.

• This creates a visually appealing effect and adds a touch of sophistication to the overall look. The length of the pallu can be adjusted to suit your preference, but it is typically long enough to reach your ankles. To complete the Gujarati style, consider adding a decorative belt or a piece of jewelry to enhance the look. The Gujarati style is a versatile drape that can be adapted to suit various occasions and personal styles. Whether you're attending a formal wedding or a casual gathering, the Gujarati style is sure to make a statement and leave a lasting impression.

• Perfect for: Modern and trendy events.

• How to: The Cossack style is a modern and stylish drape that showcases the versatility of the sari. To achieve the Cossack style, start by pleating the sari at the front, ensuring the pleats are even and neatly arranged. Drape the pleated section over your shoulder, allowing it to flow gracefully down your back. The pallu, the unstitched end of the sari, is then looped around the back of your body and tucked into the pleats.

• This creates a unique and visually appealing effect that is perfect for contemporary events. To complete the Cossack style, consider adding a belt or a piece of jewellery to enhance the look. The Cossack style is a versatile drape that can be adapted to suit various occasions and personal styles. Whether you're attending a cocktail party, a fashion show, or a cultural event, the Cossack style is sure to make a statement and turn heads.

• Choose the right fabric: The fabric of the sari can affect the drape. For example, silk and chiffon are ideal for flowing styles, while cotton and georgette are better suited for structured drapes.
• Experiment with accessories: Jewellery, belts, and brooches can enhance the overall look.
• Practice makes perfect: Don't be afraid to experiment with different styles until you find the one that suits you best.