How To Put On A Saree

Step into the enchanting world of Indian tradition with the art of draping a Saree, a timeless garment that embodies grace, elegance, and cultural heritage. This versatile fabric, rich in vibrant colors and intricate designs, is not merely a piece of clothing but a symbol of femininity and style. Mastering the art of donning a Saree may seem daunting at first, yet with careful guidance and a touch of patience, you’ll soon unveil the secrets of this mesmerizing attire.

Before embarking on your journey into the resplendent realm of Sarees, let us gather the essential elements required for this sartorial masterpiece. You’ll need a tailored Saree, a form-fitting blouse or choli to complement it, and a petticoat or underskirt to provide volume and support. Additionally, a safety pin or two will come in handy to secure the Saree’s delicate folds. Now, with your tools at hand, let’s delve into the transformative process of draping a Saree and unleash your inner goddess.

Begin your Saree draping adventure by securing the petticoat around your waist, ensuring a snug fit that will serve as the foundation for your ensemble. Next, drape the Saree gracefully around your waist, aligning the end with the center point of your abdomen. Take the remaining portion of the Saree and allow it to cascade over your shoulder, forming elegant pleats that fall effortlessly down your back. To create a secure hold, tuck the end of the Saree into the waistband of your petticoat, ensuring it remains firmly in place. With each step, you’ll feel the Saree’s embrace, enveloping you in a symphony of colors and textures.

Choosing the Blouse

The blouse is the key piece in a saree ensemble, as it sets the tone for the entire look. A well-chosen blouse can enhance the saree and make a woman feel confident and beautiful. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a blouse:

Neckline

The neckline of the blouse can vary from high and modest to low and revealing. The choice of neckline depends on the occasion, the woman’s personal style, and the overall aesthetic of the saree. A high neckline is a good option for formal or traditional occasions, while a low neckline can be more flattering for evening or special events.

Sleeves

The sleeves of the blouse can also vary in length and style. Short sleeves are a good choice for summer or hot weather, while long sleeves can provide more coverage and warmth. The style of the sleeves can also reflect the woman’s personal style. For example, a puff sleeve can add a touch of femininity, while a flared sleeve can give a more dramatic look.

Fabric

The fabric of the blouse can be anything from silk to cotton to lace. The fabric should be chosen to complement the saree and the occasion. A silk blouse is a luxurious choice that is perfect for special occasions, while a cotton blouse is more casual and easy to care for. Lace blouses can add a touch of elegance and femininity to any saree.

Neckline	Sleeves	Fabric
High	Short	Silk
Low	Long	Cotton
V-neck	Puff	Lace

Pleating and Tucking the Sari

The next step is to create pleats in the sari. Stand with your left side facing a mirror, and hold the open end of the sari in your left hand. With your right hand, take about 2-3 feet of the sari fabric and gather it into pleats, ensuring that the pleats are neat and even.

Positioning and Aligning the Pleats

Make sure that the pleats are aligned with the pallu. Pinch the pleats at the top and hold them in place. Using your right hand, bring the pleats to the waistline and tuck them into the waistband of your skirt.

Tucking the Remaining Fabric into the Waistband

Once the pleats are in place, take the remaining fabric from the open end of the sari and gather it into a loose ball. Starting from the left end of your waistline, tuck the bunched fabric into the waistband, ensuring that it is spread evenly around your waist.

Creating a Smooth Surface at the Waist

Gently smooth out the bunched fabric to create a neat and seamless surface at the waistline. This will help keep the sari secure and in place throughout the day.

Adjusting the Length of the Pleats

Finally, adjust the length of the pleats to your desired preference. You can make the pleats longer or shorter by pulling or releasing the fabric from the waistline tuck. Experiment with different lengths until you find the one that flatters your body type and the overall look of the sari.

Saree Maintenance Tips

To preserve the beauty and longevity of your sarees, follow these essential maintenance tips:

1. Delicate Hand Washing

Most sarees, especially those made from delicate fabrics like silk and chiffon, should be hand-washed in cold water. Use a mild detergent designed for delicate fabrics and gently squeeze or soak the saree to remove dirt and stains.

2. Dry Cleaning

For heavily embellished sarees or those made from fabrics such as velvet or brocade, dry cleaning is recommended. This professional service can remove dirt, stains, and wrinkles while preserving the saree’s structural integrity.

3. Avoid Strong Chemicals

Bleach and harsh chemicals can damage the fabric and color of sarees. Always use mild detergents and avoid exposing them to strong cleaners.

4. Proper Drying

Never wring or twist a wet saree, as this can distort or damage the fabric. Instead, gently squeeze out excess water and spread the saree flat on a clean towel to air dry. Avoid direct sunlight.

5. Ironing

Iron sarees on the lowest heat setting suitable for the fabric. Use a damp cloth or a protective sheet to prevent scorching or damage to the saree’s surface.

6. Storage

Store sarees in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Use muslin or acid-free tissue paper to wrap the sarees and protect them from dust. Avoid folding sarees tightly, as this can create creases.

7. Periodic Airing

To prevent moisture damage, hang sarees outside in the shade for a few hours every few months. This will allow the fabric to breathe and refresh.

8. Stain Removal

Treat stains promptly and gently. Use a mild stain remover or dish soap and dab the stain gently. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing, as this can spread the stain.

9. Specific Care for Different Fabrics

Refer to the specific care instructions provided with your sarees to ensure proper maintenance. Each fabric type may require specialized care:

Fabric Type	Special Care Instructions
Silk	Dry clean only, use a mild detergent, iron on low heat with a damp cloth
Cotton	Can be hand-washed or machine-washed on a gentle cycle, iron on medium heat
Georgette	Hand-wash only in cold water, avoid twisting or wringing, dry flat

The saree, a traditional Indian garment, is a beautiful and versatile piece of clothing that can be worn in a variety of ways. Learning how to put on a saree can be a bit daunting at first, but with a little practice, you’ll be able to master this elegant art form.

To put on a saree, you will need the following materials:

A saree, which is a long piece of fabric, typically around 6 yards in length
A petticoat, which is a shorter skirt that you will wear under the saree
A blouse, which is a short top that you will wear with the saree
A safety pin

Once you have gathered your materials, you can begin putting on the saree. Here are the steps:

Start by wrapping the petticoat around your waist and securing it with a safety pin.
Next, take the saree and drape it over your left shoulder, bringing the end of the saree around your back and over your right shoulder.
Bring the end of the saree back to your left side and tuck it into the waistband of your petticoat.
Now, take the remaining fabric of the saree and pleat it into small folds. Secure the pleats with a safety pin at the waist.
Finally, take the end of the saree and drape it over your head, covering your hair.