How to drape a Saree in 5 Different Regional Styles

Saree, the six (or nine) yards of glamour that never becomes obsolete. Right from the four corners of India to the different regions, every region has a distinctive method of draping the saree, each with its own cultural heritage bearing testimony to history, tradition, and women’s lifestyle there. If you wish to go beyond the normal Nivi way of draping a saree and try other varieties, take a look at five beautiful traditional drapes found in various states and how to master them.

1. The Nivi Drape (Andhra Pradesh & Telangana)

The Nivi drape is the most widely used saree drape currently and the default drape for most Indian women. Hailing from Andhra Pradesh, the style revolves around pleats and a neatly demarcated pallu. It gained universal popularity due to its beauty and ease of mobility, hence proving itself ideal for casual wear, office, and even formal events.

In order to drape a saree in the Nivi style, start by tucking one of the ends into the petticoat at the right side of your waist. Wrap the saree around your waist once and then begin to make pleats (around 5–7) at the front. Tuck them neatly into the waistband of your petticoat to give a defined look. The rest of the fabric is draped over the left shoulder, creating the pallu. You can pin it for a tidy look or let it flow for an easier style. The drape is typically used with a blouse ranging from traditional to contemporary cuts and is thus highly versatile.

2. The Bengali Atpoure Drape (West Bengal)

If you’ve ever seen a Bollywood period drama set in Bengal (think Devdas or Parineeta), you’ve probably noticed the stunning Bengali drape, known as Atpoure. This style dates back to colonial times and is often associated with Durga Puja, weddings, and cultural events. It is unique because it doesn’t require pleats in the front, making it easy to drape but still maintaining a regal appearance.

To drape the Bengali Atpoure saree, begin by folding the plain end of the saree into your right waist and draping it around in a counterclockwise direction. Rather than pleats, you drape the pallu across your left shoulder, returning it to the right side. The pallu is folded in pleats again and draped over the left shoulder for a double-pallu look. The pallu of the saree is traditionally adorned with a set of keys or gold ornaments, indicating caretaking status within the household. Red-and-white sarees, especially in silk or cotton, are representative of this look.

3. The Nauvari Drape (Maharashtra)

Maharashtra’s famous Nauvari saree, meaning “nine yards,” is a fierce and functional drape. Traditionally worn by women warriors and farm workers, this style resembles a dhoti, allowing complete freedom of movement. Even today, during festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi or Lavani performances, this drape is celebrated for its bold, graceful look.

To wear a Nauvari saree, you’ll need a longer saree than the usual six-yard drape. Begin by draping it around your waist, but rather than pleating and tucking it in as in the Nivi drape, you split the fabric into two sections—one for the front pleats and one to pass through the legs, giving a trouser effect. The front pleats are tucked in tightly, and the back portion is pulled between the legs and tucked at the back. The pallu is finally draped over the shoulder like a normal saree. This style goes well with a short-sleeved blouse and traditional Maharashtrian ornaments, including the nath (nose ring) and green bangles.

4. The Madisaru Drape (Tamil Nadu)

The Madisaru saree drape is deeply rooted in Tamil Brahmin traditions and is usually worn by married women for religious ceremonies and festivals. Like the Nauvari, it also resembles a dhoti but has a more structured and layered appearance. This style is often seen during functions like Pongal, Navaratri, and weddings.

Draping the Madisaru style requires a nine-yard saree and is slightly complex. Start by wrapping the saree around the waist and folding pleats, tucking them in the back. Next, draw the remaining cloth between the legs and secure it in the back to form a dhoti-like foundation. The pallu is next brought over the left shoulder and wrapped around the body before being pinned tightly. The result is a majestic, traditional draping that reflects dedication and prosperity. It complements heavy gold jewelry, jasmine-embellished hair, and traditional temple-style blouses.

5. The Seedha Pallu Drape (Gujarat & Rajasthan)

Seedha Pallu is a royal drape of the saree, which is very popular in Gujarat and Rajasthan. In this type of drape, unlike the other drapes where the pallu is allowed to fall behind, the pallu is taken to the front. This gives room for exquisite embroidery and design on the pallu to be showcased.

While draping the saree in the Seedha Pallu, start in a similar manner to the Nivi drape. Tuck the one end of the saree into the waistband, wrap around the waist, and pleat it. When the base is complete, take the pallu and bring it over the right shoulder so that it falls in front rather than at the back. Women traditionally use an elaborate belt to keep the pleats in position, enhancing the regal appearance. This is generally paired with bandhani or mirror-work sarees, creating a celebratory and festive atmosphere.

Cultural Significance of Saree Draping Styles

Every one of these drape styles holds profound cultural value over and above aesthetics. The Nivi drape has become a global style symbolizing modernity, while the Bengali drape is associated with intellectual and cultural endowment. The Nauvari and Madisaru drape styles identify women’s active participation in society, reflecting strength and resilience. The Seedha Pallu drape, traditionally linked to royalty, bears the legacy of Gujarat’s and Rajasthan’s royal heritage.

Draping styles have changed over the years, but their nature has not changed. Most designers and stylists now innovate by mixing traditional drapes with modern fashion, rendering them more flexible for today’s events. Whether a wedding, a festival, or even a daily office attire, there is a saree drape for every occasion.

Tips for Draping a Saree Perfectly

No matter what draping technique you prefer, some key tips can assist in getting that perfect saree look. Firstly, make sure you are using the appropriate petticoat or leggings, depending on the drape. A fitted petticoat gives a smooth surface, while leggings are good for dhoti-style drapes. Strategically using safety pins can assist in keeping the pleats intact without making them rigid. Try different blouses to suit your drape, ranging from classic silk blouses to contemporary crop tops. Finally, dress practice a few times before going to an occasion to get relaxed and assured.

Sarees are not merely a piece of cloth but an essence of India’s rich cultural background. Every type of draping is a history of tradition, way of living, and history, hence is greater than the choice of apparel. From the fluid sophistication of the Nivi drape to the warrior-like beauty of the Nauvari, these draping styles prove the versatility and loveliness of Indian sarees. Be it for a festival, wedding, or a regular occasion, playing around with various draping methods can be a thrilling way to experience India’s sartorial heritage in all its richness. So, pick up a saree, try out a new drape, and continue the tradition of this timeless garment!