How To Put On A Saree * bigfinish.com

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Embrace the allure of India’s traditional garment, the saree, a masterpiece of elegance and cultural heritage. Its flowing fabric and vibrant hues have captivated generations, becoming an icon of grace and beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice eager to unravel its mysteries, this comprehensive guide will empower you to adorn this exquisite attire like a true virtuoso.

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Before embarking on your saree-wearing journey, gather your essential tools: a meticulously chosen saree, a matching blouse, and a trusted petticoat. The petticoat provides a seamless foundation, ensuring that your saree drapes effortlessly. Next, dampen the saree’s soft folds with water, allowing it to become more pliable and manageable. This step is crucial for avoiding creases and ensuring a smooth, polished look.

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Now, let the draping magic unfold. Grip the pallu, the decorative end of the saree, and place it over your left shoulder, its flowing end cascading down your back. Secure the pallu to your waist with a tuck or a safety pin. Gather the remainder of the saree and begin to wrap it around your waist, overlapping the layers as you go. Secure the waistline firmly, ensuring a snug but comfortable fit. With each graceful fold, the saree transforms into a work of art, a testament to your dexterity and cultural appreciation.

Selecting the Right Saree for Your Occasion

Choosing the perfect saree for your special occasion can be daunting, but with some thoughtful consideration, you can find one that enhances your beauty and complements the event.

Here are a few factors to keep in mind when selecting a saree:

Material

The fabric of the saree plays a crucial role in its appearance and drape. Silk sarees are luxurious and elegant, perfect for formal events. Cotton sarees are comfortable and breathable, ideal for casual wear or warm climates. Other materials like georgette, chiffon, and crepe offer a wide range of textures and drapes.

Pattern and Design

The pattern and design of the saree create a visual impact. Floral prints, geometric motifs, and traditional designs are popular choices. Consider the occasion and the formality level to choose the most appropriate pattern.

Color

The color of the saree should complement your skin tone and the event’s atmosphere. Bright and vibrant colors are suitable for festive occasions, while pastel and muted shades are more appropriate for formal or intimate events.

Fabric	Occasion
Silk	Formal events, weddings, parties
Cotton	Casual wear, summer events, everyday use
Georgette	Evening wear, parties, special occasions
Chiffon	Flowy and elegant, suitable for both formal and casual wear
Crepe	Structured and drapes beautifully, appropriate for sarees that require a crisp finish

Preparing the Saree for Drapery

1. Ironing the Saree:
Before draping the saree, it’s essential to iron it to remove any wrinkles or creases. Use a medium heat setting and avoid the iron directly touching the fabric. Fold the saree in half lengthwise and iron both sides.

2. Choosing the Right Petticoat:

The petticoat provides the base layer for the saree and influences the drape and fit. Consider the following points when selecting a petticoat:

Factors	Considerations
Length	Choose a petticoat that falls slightly below the saree’s hemline.
Material	Select a breathable material, such as cotton or silk, for comfort and ease of movement.
Waistband	Look for a petticoat with a comfortable elastic or drawstring waistband that won’t dig into your skin.
Fit	The petticoat should fit snugly but not constrictingly, allowing you to move freely while draping the saree.
Occasion	For formal events, consider a heavily embellished or embroidered petticoat. For everyday wear, a simple cotton petticoat is suitable.

3. Tying the Pallov:

The pallov is the decorative end of the saree that is draped over the shoulder or head. To tie the pallov:

Find the end with the pallov attached.
Make a small pleat in the center of the pallov.
Bring the pleated end to the back of your waist and tuck it into the petticoat waistband on the left side.
Unfold the pleat and gather the remaining pallov in your right hand.

Wearing the Saree Blouse

Before you begin draping your saree, it’s essential to wear a fitted saree blouse that complements the fabric and style of your saree. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to wear a saree blouse:

1. Choose a Blouse That Fits

Select a blouse that fits you snugly but comfortably, allowing you to move around freely without feeling restricted.

2. Put on the Blouse

Slip the blouse over your head and fasten the hook-and-eye closures in the back. Ensure the neckline aligns properly and doesn’t bunch up.

3. Adjust the Sleeves

Pull up and adjust the sleeves to the desired length. Some blouses have elbow-length sleeves, while others may extend to the wrist. Create elegant pleats or gathers at the shoulders for a more polished look.

4. Secure the Blouse Back

If the blouse has a low back, use a safety pin or blouse clip to hold the fabric in place and prevent it from slipping down.

5. Style the Neckline

Depending on the neckline of your blouse, you can style it with jewelry or accessories to enhance its look. Consider wearing a choker necklace or dangling earrings to complement your attire.

Draping the Petticoat

The petticoat provides a smooth foundation for the saree and enhances its drape. Here’s how to properly wear a petticoat:

1. Select the Correct Size

Choose a petticoat that fits snugly at the waist without being too constricting. It should extend to the desired length, typically ankle-length.

2. Adjust the Drawstring

Insert the petticoat and tighten the drawstring comfortably. Avoid over-tightening, as it can create discomfort and alter the saree’s drape.

3. Ensure a Snug Fit

Fold the excess fabric of the petticoat around the waist and tuck it in securely. This ensures a wrinkle-free and neat base for the saree.

4. Pleating the Petticoat

Create accordion-style pleats on the petticoat at your preferred depth, typically around 6-8 inches. This adds volume and helps the saree drape evenly.

Pleat Depth	Saree Drape
Shallow (4-6 inches)	Sleeker, more formal drape
Deep (8-10 inches)	Fuller, more voluminous drape

Once the pleats are in place, distribute them evenly around the waist to ensure a balanced and graceful saree drape.

Pleating and Tucking the Saree Pallu

The pallu is the most decorative part of the saree and is often used to create a dramatic effect. To pleat and tuck the pallu, follow these steps:

1. Hold the End of the Pallu

Hold the end of the pallu between your thumb and forefinger, about an inch from the edge.

2. Make a Small Pleat

Bring the edge of the pallu towards the center and make a small pleat, about 1-2 inches wide.

3. Fold the Pleat Over

Fold the pleat over towards the outer edge of the pallu, making sure to keep it tight.

4. Repeat Steps 2-3

Repeat steps 2-3 until you have created a series of neatly folded pleats along the edge of the pallu.

5. Tuck and Pin the Pleats

To secure the pleats, tuck the last pleat under the previous one and pin it in place with a safety pin. You can also use a decorative brooch to further secure the pleats.

Pleating Technique	Description
Single pleat	Create a single pleat at the end of the pallu.
Double pleat	Create two pleats at the end of the pallu.
Triple pleat	Create three pleats at the end of the pallu.
Accordion pleat	Create a series of small, even pleats along the edge of the pallu.

Tying the Saree Securely

After pleating the pallu and draping it over your shoulder, it’s time to secure the saree securely around your waist.

6. Tucking the Saree’s Free End

Once you have the pallu in place, you’ll need to tuck the free end of the saree into your petticoat or waist wrap. Here’s how:

Step 1: Bring the end around your waist. Holding the end of the saree, bring it around the back of your waist and toward the front.
Step 2: Make a loop. Take the end of the saree and make a small loop at your natural waistline. The loop should be snug but not too tight.
Step 3: Tuck the loop in. Slip the loop under the pleats of the saree or petticoat at your waist. Pull it through to secure it.
Step 4: Repeat the process. Bring the remaining length of saree around your waist again and make another loop. Tuck this loop in as well.
Step 5: Check for tightness. Make sure the saree is securely tucked in and not too loose or too tight. Adjust the loops until you’re comfortable.

Tucking the saree’s free end properly ensures that it will stay in place throughout the day without slipping or sagging.

Creating the Desired Drape

7. Pleating the Pallu:

The pallu (the ornate end of the saree) plays a crucial role in enhancing the saree’s drape. To achieve the desired look, follow these steps:

Hold the pallu with both hands, ensuring it’s parallel to the floor.
Create neat, even pleats (vertically or horizontally) starting from the center and working outwards.
Ensure the pleats are uniform in size and depth.
Secure the pleats by tucking them into the waistband at the back.
Adjust the pleats as needed to create a balanced and elegant drape.

**Tip:**
To create a more voluminous and dramatic pallu, opt for larger pleats. For a sleeker and understated look, choose smaller pleats.

Pleating Style	Effect
Vertical Pleats	Adds height and a regal touch
Horizontal Pleats	Creates a more casual and contemporary look
Diagonal Pleats	Provides a unique and asymmetrical flair

Accessorizing Your Saree

Jewelry

Jewelry is an essential part of completing any saree look. When choosing jewelry, it is important to consider the occasion, the fabric of your saree, and your personal style. For formal occasions, such as weddings or parties, you can opt for heavy gold or silver jewelry. For more casual settings, you can choose lighter jewelry made from materials such as beads or gemstones.

Blouse

The blouse worn under a saree can also add a touch of style to your look. Blouses can be made from a variety of fabrics, including silk, cotton, and lace. They can also be embellished with embroidery, sequins, or beads. When choosing a blouse, it is important to consider the neckline of your saree. A blouse with a high neckline will complement a saree with a low neckline, and vice versa.

Saree Petticoat

A saree petticoat is an essential garment that helps to keep your saree in place. Petticoats are typically made from a lightweight fabric, such as cotton or silk. They can be either long or short, and they may or may not have a drawstring waistband.

Saree Shaper

A saree shaper is a device that helps to give your saree a more structured look. Saree shapers are typically made from a thin foam or plastic material. They are inserted into the folds of your saree, and they help to keep the saree from sagging or bunching up.

Saree Pins

Saree pins are small, decorative pins that can be used to secure your saree. Saree pins are available in a variety of styles, and they can be made from a variety of materials, such as metal, plastic, or fabric.

Saree Brooch

A saree brooch is a large, decorative brooch that can be worn on the shoulder of your saree. Saree brooches are available in a variety of styles, and they can be made from a variety of materials, such as gold, silver, or gemstones.

Saree Belt

A saree belt is a wide, decorative belt that can be worn around your waist over your saree. Saree belts are available in a variety of styles, and they can be made from a variety of materials, such as leather, fabric, or metal.

Saree Scarf

A saree scarf is a long, lightweight scarf that can be draped over your shoulder or head. Saree scarves are available in a variety of styles, and they can be made from a variety of fabrics, such as silk, cotton, or chiffon.

Accessory	Description
Jewelry	Adds a touch of glamour to your look
Blouse	Complements the neckline of your saree
Saree Petticoat	Keeps your saree in place
Saree Shaper	Gives your saree a more structured look
Saree Pins	Secures your saree
Saree Brooch	Adds a decorative touch to your shoulder
Saree Belt	Highlights your waist
Saree Scarf	Adds a touch of warmth or style

Troubleshooting Common Saree Problems

1. Saree Falls Off Constantly

This can happen due to loose pleats or improper tucking. Ensure the pleats are tight and secure, and tuck the saree securely into your waist without creating any gaps.

2. Pleats Are Not Even

Uneven pleats can be caused by inconsistent pleating. Take your time and ensure each pleat has a similar width and depth.

3. Saree Doesn’t Drape Well

A poorly draped saree can be a result of using a thick or heavy fabric. Choose lighter, flowy fabrics that drape better.

4. Pallu Is Too Long or Short

An excessively long or short pallu can ruin the overall look. Adjust the length by tucking the excess fabric into the pleats or extending it as needed.

5. Saree Is Creased

Iron your saree before draping it to avoid creases. If creases do appear, use a steamer or iron on a low setting to smooth them out.

6. Saree Is Too Tight

A tight saree can be uncomfortable and restrictive. Start with a longer fabric length and pleat it loosely to achieve a comfortable fit.

7. Saree Is Too Loose

A loose saree can lead to frequent adjustments and discomfort. Take the time to tuck the pleats tightly and secure the saree properly.

8. Blouse Doesn’t Fit Well

An ill-fitting blouse can affect the overall drape and comfort of the saree. Ensure your blouse fits snugly and comfortably.

9. Other Common Saree Problems and Solutions

Problem	Solution
Saree is twisted	Unravel the saree and start draping from the other end.
Saree is stuck	Gently pull the fabric in opposite directions to release the stuck portion.
Saree has a stain	Apply a stain remover promptly and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Achieving a Flawless Saree Look

1. Choosing the Right Saree

Select a saree that complements your body type and skin tone. Consider the fabric (e.g., silk, cotton, georgette) and embellishments (e.g., embroidery, sequins, prints).

2. Preparing the Saree

Iron the saree carefully to remove any creases. If the saree has pleats or embellishments, handle them gently to preserve their shape.

3. Draping the Sari

Secure the saree at your waist with safety pins. The pallu (long, loose end) should be draped over your left shoulder and pinned at the back of your neck.

4. Adjusting the Pleats

Fold vertical pleats in the front, starting from the waist and continuing towards the ankles. Use a tucking technique to keep the pleats in place.

5. Setting the Pallu

Adjust the length of the pallu to create a graceful flow. Drape it over the right shoulder and gather it slightly in the center to enhance its elegance.

6. Securing the Blouse

Wear a fitted blouse under the saree. Choose a design that complements the saree and provides adequate coverage.

7. Adding Accessories

Accessorize with jewelry, shoes, and a handbag to complete the look. Choose pieces that complement the saree and enhance its overall appeal.

8. Practicing

Practice draping the saree multiple times to master the technique. Patience and familiarity will help you achieve a refined and flawless appearance.

9. Seeking Assistance

If you find it challenging to drape the saree on your own, seek assistance from a friend, family member, or professional draping expert.

10. Maintaining the Saree

Wash and iron the saree regularly to maintain its appearance. Store it carefully in a dry and dust-free place to prevent damage.

Care Tips
Hand wash or dry clean the saree as per fabric instructions.
Use a mild detergent and avoid excessive scrubbing.
Iron the saree at a low-to-medium temperature using a damp cloth as a pressing pad.
Fold the saree carefully and store it in a protective bag or box.
Avoid hanging the saree to prevent stretching or tearing.

How to Put on a Saree

A saree is a traditional Indian garment that is worn by women of all ages. It is a versatile garment that can be dressed up or down, and it is perfect for both formal and casual occasions. If you are new to wearing a saree, do not worry- it is not as difficult as it may seem. With a little practice, you will be able to put on a saree quickly and easily.

Here are the steps on how to put on a saree:

Drape the saree around your waist. The end of the saree with the pallu (the decorative end) should be on your right side. Bring the other end of the saree around your waist and tuck it into the waistband of your petticoat. Make sure that the saree is snug but not too tight.

Pleat the saree. Starting from the left side, take small pleats in the saree and tuck them into the waistband of your petticoat. Continue pleating until you reach the right side. Make sure that the pleats are even and neat.

Bring the pallu over your shoulder. Take the pallu and bring it over your left shoulder. Drape it over your head and let it fall down your back.

Secure the pallu. Use a safety pin to secure the pallu to the shoulder of your blouse. You can also use a brooch or other decorative accessory to hold the pallu in place.

Adjust the saree. Once the saree is in place, you can adjust it to make sure that it is comfortable and looks good. You may need to tighten the pleats or adjust the pallu.