Banarasi Saree Draping: How To Style Banarasi Saree

The Banarasi is one of the most famous types of sarees that represents the Indian traditional clothing system at its best. These beautiful silk sarees have been produced in Varanasi, the holy city in India, and are famous for their zari work, rich-looking fabric, and fine design. As it is said that beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder, similarly, the simplicity of a Banarasi saree defines its uniqueness, similarly, the way one drapes it gives a new level of height. Let’s learn different styles of draping Banarasi saree and find out how a woman can look elegant in this splendid apparel.

Understanding the Banarasi Saree

Now before we begin with the draping styles, it is important to know the basics of a Banarasi saree that sets it apart from other sarees. Banarasi sarees are usually woven with exquisite silk fabric and comes with zari work that is Bronze or silver Korean. The following styles of the Banarasi silk saree, we are going to discuss are very much intended to highlight the patterns on the saree and its fabric appropriately.

Banarasi Saree Draping: How To Style Banarasi Saree

1. Classic Nivi Drape: The Timeless Banarasi Saree Wearing Style

The Nivi drape is the most common and versatile Banarasi saree draping style. It’s perfect for both formal and casual occasions and suits most body types.

Steps for the Nivi Drape:

1. Start by tucking the inner end of the saree into your petticoat on the right side.
2. Wrap the saree around your waist once, moving from right to left.
3. Make 5-7 pleats, each about 5 inches wide, and tuck them into your petticoat at the center of your waist.
4. Take the remaining fabric (pallu) over your left shoulder, allowing it to fall gracefully down your back.
5. Adjust the length and create small pleats on the shoulder for a neat look.

Tips for Banarasi Silk Saree Draping in Nivi Style:

• Ensure the pleats are of equal width for a polished appearance.
• Pin the pleats at the waist and shoulder for added security.
• Adjust the pallu length based on your height and the occasion.

2. Bengali Drape: A Regal Banarasi Draping Style

The Bengali drape adds a touch of regality to your Banarasi saree look. It’s particularly suitable for formal events and celebrations.

Steps for the Bengali Drape:

1. Begin as you would with the Nivi drape, tucking the saree into your petticoat on the right side.
2. Instead of making pleats at the waist, create a single, broad pleat and tuck it in at the center.
3. Wrap the saree around your body, bringing it from the back to the front over your left shoulder.
4. Create a fan-like pleat with the pallu and pin it to your left shoulder.
5. Take the loose end of the pallu and bring it to your right hip, tucking it into your waist.

Tips for Bengali Style Banarasi Saree Draping:

• Use a slightly stiff petticoat to maintain the shape of the drape.
• Pin the pallu securely at the shoulder to keep the fan-like pleat in place.
• Opt for Banarasi sarees with rich borders to accentuate this draping style.

3. Gujarati Style: A Unique Banarasi Saree Wearing Style

The Gujarati style drape is known for its distinctive front pallu, which adds a charming and youthful touch to your Banarasi saree look.

Steps for the Gujarati Style Drape:

1. Start by tucking the saree into your petticoat on the right side, as usual.
2. Wrap the saree around your waist once, moving from right to left.
3. Create and tuck in the pleats at the center of your waist.
4. Instead of taking the pallu over your left shoulder, bring it to the front from your back, passing under your right arm.
5. Spread the pallu across your chest and throw the end over your left shoulder.
6. Adjust the pallu to create a triangular shape in the front.

Tips for Gujarati Style Banarasi Silk Saree Draping:

• Choose a Banarasi saree with a striking pallu design to highlight this unique draping style.
• Secure the pallu with pins at the shoulder and waist for a neat appearance.
• Experiment with the length of the front pallu based on your comfort and the occasion.

4. Mumtaz Style: A Glamorous Banarasi Draping Style

Named after the legendary Bollywood actress Mumtaz, this style adds a touch of retro glamour to your Banarasi saree look.

Steps for the Mumtaz Style Drape:

1. Begin by draping the saree around your waist once, as in the Nivi style.
2. Instead of creating multiple pleats, make one large, diagonal pleat from your right hip to your left ankle.
3. Tuck this pleat securely into your petticoat at the waist.
4. Wrap the remaining fabric around your body, creating a snug fit.
5. Take the pallu over your left shoulder and let it fall down your back.
6. Adjust the drape to ensure a smooth, curve-hugging silhouette.

Tips for Mumtaz Style Banarasi Saree Draping:

• This style works best with softer, more pliable Banarasi silk sarees.
• Use safety pins strategically to maintain the drape’s shape.
• Pair this drape with high heels to elongate your silhouette.

5. Butterfly Style: A Modern Twist on Banarasi Saree Wearing

The Butterfly style is a contemporary draping technique that creates a unique, wing-like effect with the pallu.

Steps for the Butterfly Style Drape:

1. Start with the basic Nivi drape, creating and tucking in the pleats at your waist.
2. Take the pallu and create accordion pleats along its entire length.
3. Secure these pleats at your left shoulder with a pin.
4. Fan out the pleats to create a butterfly wing-like effect on your left side.
5. Adjust the pleats to achieve the desired shape and volume.

Tips for Butterfly Style Banarasi Silk Saree Draping:

• This style works particularly well with lighter Banarasi silk sarees.
• Experiment with the width of the accordion pleats to vary the final look.
• Use multiple pins to secure the pleated pallu for a lasting effect.

General Tips for Banarasi Saree Draping

Regardless of the specific draping style you choose, here are some universal tips to enhance your Banarasi saree wearing experience:

1. Choose the Right Blouse: Select a well-fitted blouse that complements your saree. Experiment with different necklines and sleeve lengths to suit your body type and the occasion.

2. Invest in Quality Undergarments: A good quality petticoat and the right undergarments are crucial for a smooth and comfortable drape.

3. Use Safety Pins Wisely: While pins can help secure your drape, use them judiciously to avoid damaging the delicate Banarasi silk.

4. Practice Makes Perfect: Spend time practicing different draping styles to find what works best for you and to improve your technique.

5. Accessorize Thoughtfully: Choose jewelry and accessories that complement your Banarasi saree without overshadowing its intricate designs.

6. Maintain Proper Posture: Good posture can significantly enhance the way your saree falls and drapes around you.

7. Care for Your Saree: Proper storage and maintenance of your Banarasi saree will ensure it retains its beauty for years to come.

Conclusion

Understanding how to style Banarasi saree increases option of styling greatly as it is a versatile garment. From the traditional lightly draped Nivi drape to the rich Bengali style, and from the trendy Butterfly drape to the others, every Banarasi saree wearing style is an opportunity to reveal the elegance of these terrific gowns. As we all know there is no superior way of wearing a saree as such but rock the dazzle the Banarasi saree is all in confidence.

Many trends of draping Banarasi saree can be tried to get the best look according to the personality of the lady. Over time, its wearers have mastered the art of how to rock Banarasi saree for different occasions as they stand out as epitome of the current Indian fashion.

Author: Team Banaras Trip