32 Different Saree Draping Styles in 2024 [Modern & Traditional]
Saree draping styles have always held a significant place in Indian culture, reflecting the diversity and elegance of traditional and modern fashion. In 2024, exploring 32 different saree draping styles, both modern and traditional, showcases how this timeless garment continues to evolve. Whether it’s the basic saree draping style or the more contemporary pant style saree draping, each style exudes grace and cultural significance. These draping styles offer a blend of tradition and modernity, making them perfect for every occasion, from formal events to everyday wear. 1. Nivi or Basic Saree Draping Style The Nivi or basic saree draping style is the most widely recognized saree draping style in India. Originating from Andhra Pradesh, this style involves tucking the saree around the waist and creating pleats in the center. The pallu is then draped over the left shoulder, allowing the saree to fall gracefully. This traditional saree draping style is versatile and suitable for various occasions, from casual outings to formal events. Its simplicity and elegance make it a go-to style for women across India, making it a staple in Indian saree draping styles. Read our guide on: Saree Captions and Quotes for Instagram 2. Bengali Saree Draping The Bengali saree draping style reflects West Bengal’s rich cultural heritage. The saree is wrapped around the waist, with the pallu brought over the right shoulder, then wrapped around the left shoulder. This style, associated with traditional sarees like silk sarees and cotton sarees, is perfect for festive occasions. Different styles include accessorizing the pallu with keys or brooches, adding a unique touch to the drape. Here is our detailed guide on: How to Wear a Saree in Bengali Style 3. Lehenga Style Saree Draping Lehenga style saree draping is a modern saree draping style that blends saree elegance with lehenga flair. The saree is draped to resemble a lehenga skirt, with the pallu over the left shoulder. Perfect for special occasions like weddings and festivals, this style adds a contemporary touch while preserving the saree’s traditional essence. Btw, checkout our collection of Bandhani Sarees only at Pratibha Sarees. 4. Dhoti Style Saree Draping The dhoti style saree draping is a modern draping style that gives the saree a chic, contemporary look. Inspired by the traditional dhoti worn by men, this style drapes the saree to resemble a dhoti, with pleats tucked between the legs and the pallu draped over the shoulder. Among different draping styles, the dhoti style saree draping is favoured by younger women blending tradition with contemporary trends. Read our guide on: Best Traditional Captions for Instagram 5. Pant Style Saree Draping Pant style saree draping is a modern and edgy take on the traditional saree drape. This style involves draping the saree over pants or leggings instead of the usual petticoat, creating a stylish fusion look that women love for its comfort. Pant style saree draping is ideal for fashion-forward women who want to make a bold statement while staying true to traditional Indian attire. Also read about: Silk Saree Blouse Designs Ideas 6. Belted Saree Draping Style Belted saree draping style is a contemporary twist that adds structure and style to the traditional saree. In this style, a belt is used to cinch the waist after the saree is draped, helping to keep the pallu in place and accentuating the waistline. The belted saree draping style is versatile, as it can be paired with various saree types like silk sarees, chiffon sarees, and georgette sarees, making it a trendy choice in 2024. 7. Double Saree Draping Style The double saree draping style is a unique and elaborate draping method that involves using two sarees instead of one. This style creates a layered look, with the first saree draped traditionally and the second saree draped over it in a complementary style. The pallu of the second saree is often draped over the shoulder, adding volume and a dramatic flair. 8. Dupatta Saree Draping Style Dupatta saree draping style is a fusion of traditional saree drapes with the addition of a dupatta for an enhanced look. In this style, the saree is draped in a basic manner, with the dupatta added either over the pallu or separately over the head and shoulders. This style is especially popular in North India, often seen at weddings and festive occasions. Btw, have you checked our amazing collection of Banarasi Silk Sarees? NO!!! Have a look now. You will definitely end up buying few for your wardrobe. 9. Mermaid Saree Draping Style The mermaid saree draping style is a glamorous and modern drape that gives the saree a sleek, figure-hugging look and a defined silhouette. This style involves draping the saree tightly around the waist and hips, with the pleats tucked to resemble a mermaid’s tail. The pallu is draped over the left shoulder, falling gracefully down the back. 10. South Indian Saree Draping Style The South Indian saree draping style is a traditional drape that reflects the rich cultural heritage of South India. This style involves draping the saree around the waist, with the pleats tucked in the front and the pallu draped over the left shoulder, creating a classic South Indian saree look. The pallu is often longer and can be pleated or left loose. This style is commonly seen in states like Tamil Nadu and Kerala. 11. Butterfly Saree Draping Style Butterfly saree draping style is a modern and stylish way of draping the saree that adds a touch of glamour and sophistication. In this style, the pallu is pleated in such a way that it creates a butterfly-like effect, with the pleats fanning out across the back. This style is often paired with lightweight sarees like chiffon or georgette, which allow the pleats to fall gracefully. 12. Modern Chic Draping Modern chic draping is a contemporary style that combines elements of traditional saree draping with modern fashion trends. This style involves draping the saree in a basic manner but adding modern twists such as using a belt, jacket, or crop top. The pallu can be draped over the left shoulder or