35 Iconic Saree Draping Styles: Your Ultimate Guide to the Traditional and Modern Drapes

The saree is so much more than just a traditional outfit. Sure, most of us stick to the classic Nivi drape that we see everywhere, but this six-yard piece of saree fabric actually gives you endless ways to style it. Just by changing how you fold, tuck, and pin your saree, you can completely transform your look. 

Looking for saree draping styles for weddings? There's a drape for that. Want some stylish saree draping styles for a party? You've got options for that, too. In this guide, you’ll explore the most popular saree draping styles with pictures that can really upgrade the way you wear your saree.

Different Saree Draping Styles

When it comes to wearing sarees for a wedding, sarees for kitty parties, or day-to-day events, the options are as diverse as the cultures that wear them. Most of us are familiar with the standard style, but stepping out of that comfort zone can really change how you look and feel in six yards of fabric. We have put together a comprehensive list of different saree draping styles that range from the deeply traditional to the boldly modern.

1. Nivi Style Open Pallu Saree Draping

The Nivi drape is the most popular and classic way to wear a saree, while the "open pallu" variation adds a touch of modern elegance. It‘s one of the easiest saree draping styles for beginners.

The Base: Start by tucking one end of the saree into your petticoat and wrapping it around once. Gather the fabric into neat front pleats and tuck them into the centre of your waist, just below the navel.

The Open Pallu: Bring the remaining loose fabric (the pallu) over your left shoulder. Instead of making narrow pleats, simply pin the top edge to your shoulder and let the rest of the fabric hang freely.

The Final Look: This style allows the pallu to flow loosely behind you, creating a relaxed look that beautifully showcases the saree's pattern or design. It is one of the most effortless saree draping styles for casual events.

2. Nivi Style Pleated Pallu Saree Draping

This is the classic and most widely recognised variation of the Nivi drape, known for its neat and structured appearance. It serves as a great foundation when learning saree draping styles step by step.

The Base: Begin by tucking one end of the saree into your petticoat and wrapping it around your waist once. Gather the fabric into neat front pleats and tuck them securely into the centre of your waist, near the navel.

The Pleated Pallu: Bring the remaining fabric (the pallu) over your left shoulder. Instead of leaving it loose, fold the pallu into even, orderly pleats and pin them neatly to your blouse.

The Final Look: Adjust your pallu so it falls nicely. It should typically reach about knee length. This gives you a tidy, sophisticated look that works great for professional settings or formal occasions.

3. Gujarati / Front Pallu / Seedha Pallu Style Saree Draping

The Front/Seedha Pallu (or Gujarati drape) is a traditional style distinguished by the way the pallu is worn to the front. This makes it perfect for displaying intricate designs and stands out among other saree draping styles.

The Base: Start by wrapping the saree around your waist and tucking the pleats at the centre front, just like the Nivi style.

The Pallu: Bring the pallu from your back over the right shoulder to the front. This is the reverse of the standard drape, which goes over the left shoulder.

The Front Look: Spread the pallu across the front of your body to showcase the saree's border and patterns effectively, creating a rich and elegant look suitable for cultural events.

Create this stunning look by choosing a unique design from Dungrani’s Batik Print Sarees.

4. Marathi / Nauvari / Kashta / Dhoti Style Saree Draping

The Nauvari (also known as Kashta or Marathi saree) is a unique 9-yard traditional drape that resembles a dhoti and is usually worn without a petticoat for ease of movement.

The Base (Dhoti Style): Begin by tying a knot at the waist to secure the saree. Instead of wrapping it like a skirt, pleats are tucked between the legs and secured at the back, creating a trouser-like effect.

The Pallu: After the lower body drape is set, bring the remaining fabric (pallu) around to the front and drape it over the left shoulder.

The Final Look: This drape style brings together the beauty of a saree with the comfort of wearing trousers. You get a traditional look that's also practical and easy to move around in.

5. Coorgi / Kodagu Style Saree Draping

The Coorgi (or Kodagu) drape is a distinctive style hailing from the Karnataka region, traditionally designed to support an active lifestyle.

The Base: Unlike most styles, the pleats in this drape are tucked securely at the back of the waist instead of the front. 

The Pallu: The pallu is brought from the back, wrapped around the chest, and thrown over the right shoulder.

The Final Look: The pallu is often secured with a pin or a knot at the neckline (known as molakattu). This gives you a graceful look that works perfectly with a full-sleeved blouse.

6. Parsi Style Saree Draping

The Parsi drape (or Gara style) is an elegant and distinct variation, often considered a reversed version of the classic Nivi style.

The Pallu: The most defining feature is the pallu, which is brought from the back over the right shoulder to the front. It’s draped across the chest, showcasing the intricate embroidery (typically Gara work) for which these sarees are famous.

The Front Look: The front pleats are often kept minimal or spread out to create a flowing look, with the pallu end tucked at the left waist or left hanging gracefully. This creates a beautiful V-shape or diagonal line below the knee that makes the drape look really elegant and special.

Since this style is famous for showcasing needlework, it pairs perfectly with Dungrani’s Embroidered Sarees.

7. Kunbi Style Saree Draping

The Kunbi drape is a simple, traditional style from Goa, originally designed for ease of movement in fields.

The Length: The saree is draped high, finishing just below the knees, and is traditionally worn without a blouse.

The Knot: A distinctive feature is the pallu brought across the chest and secured with a firm double knot on the right shoulder.

The Final Look: This secure, dress-like wrap allows for maximum mobility, making it practical for work and cultural performances.

8. Mundum Neriyathum Style Saree Draping

This classic two-piece drape from Kerala is simple yet elegant. It uses two separate fabrics to create a traditional look perfect for festivals.

The Lower Drape (Mundu): The bottom piece is wrapped once around the waist, with the pleats tucked into the front to form a skirt.

The Upper Drape (Neriyathu): The upper piece is wrapped horizontally around the chest. To achieve this, pin the edge of the cloth to the right side of your chest, wrap it around your back once, and then pleat and neatly tuck the remaining fabric in front.

The Final Look: This style highlights the garment's border across the front and chest, giving you an elegant and eye-catching look.

9. Madisaru Style Saree Draping

The Madisar is a traditional 9-yard drape worn by Tamil Brahmin women, known for its unique trouser-like structure.

The Base: Start by tying a waist thread. Make 4-5 pleats with the saree end, place them on your left hip, wrap the saree around, and knot it.

The Leg Tuck: Pass a second thread between your legs, tying it to the waist thread at the front and back to create the pant style.

The Draping: Drape the saree at a slant above the ankles, wrap it around the waist, and bring the pallu over your shoulder.

The Finish: Fold the pallu edge, tuck it at the waist, and pin the shoulder pleats securely.

10. Pin Kosuvam Style Saree Draping

The Pin Kosuvam is a traditional Tamil style distinguished by its unique pleat placement at the back.

The Back Pleats: Unlike standard drapes, begin by making medium-sized pleats at the inner end of the saree and tucking them into your back waist, ensuring the folded edges are slightly visible.

The Wrap: Wrap the saree around your body towards the right. For longer sarees (like 9 yards), add a second wrap for a better fit.

The Final Look: Drape the pallu over your left shoulder. Pin the shoulder, front, and back pleats securely to keep the borders neat and the drape stable during movement.

11. Bengali / Atpoure Style Saree Draping

The Atpoure is a traditional Bengali drape celebrated for its distinctive double-shoulder styling. When people ask how to drape a saree for Durga Puja, this is the answer.

The Base: Unlike standard drapes, these create broad, loose box pleats at the front and tuck them securely into the waist.

The Double Pallu: Pin the pleated pallu to your left shoulder. Then, take the pallu corner from the back, bring it under your right arm to the front, and pin it to your right shoulder.

The Final Look: This easy, flowing style works beautifully for festivals like Durga Puja. It's often finished with a traditional key bunch attached to the pallu for that authentic touch.

12. Double Saree Draping Style

The Double Saree drape involves layering two contrasting sarees to create a rich, voluminous, and royal look, often resembling a lehenga. This is one of the most innovative saree draping styles done today.

First Layer (Right): Drape the first saree around your waist and bring its pallu (neatly pleated) from the back over the right shoulder to the front, similar to a Gujarati style.

Second Layer (Left): Layer the second saree over the base. Pleat its pallu and drape it over the left shoulder from front to back, like a traditional Nivi drape.

The Final Look: Use lots of pins to hold both layers in place. This creates a clear, defined shape that looks like a lehenga with two pallus draped together.

Mix and match your favourites from Dungrani’s Silk Sarees to create this unique, layered look.

13. Double Pallu Saree Draping

The Double Pallu drape creates a sophisticated, layered appearance using a single saree to add volume and style. 

The Main Layer: Start by draping the saree traditionally, placing the main pallu over the left shoulder with neat pleats.

The Second Layer: Bring the remaining long fabric from the back to the front to create a "waterfall" effect or a second layer across the chest.

The Final Look: This extra layer can be pinned at the front or styled into a halter-neck back, giving the saree a stylish, fuller finish with added depth.

14. Knotted Pallu Saree Draping

The Knotted Pallu drape adds a modern, stylish twist to the traditional saree drape with a decorative knot. It’s a trendy option among modern saree draping styles.

The Base: Start with a tight foundational wrap around the waist and create neat front pleats, securing them firmly.

The Knot: Instead of pleating the pallu over the shoulder in the standard way, gather the fabric and tie it into a chic knot near the left shoulder.

The Final Look: This knot keeps your drape secure while adding a stylish touch. The look gets even better when you let the rest of the fabric flow naturally.

15. Twisted Pallu Saree Draping

The Twisted Pallu drape is a modern variation of the standard Nivi style, adding a chic and structural element to the look. It stands out among other saree draping styles for its avant-garde appeal.

The Base: Begin with a traditional Nivi drape, securing the waist pleats as usual.

The Twist: Instead of flat pleats, twist the pallu fabric to create a textured, rope-like effect. You can drape this twisted section over your shoulder, loop it around your neck, or wrap it around your waist.

The Final Look: Tuck the end securely into the front pleats. This creates a unique "infinity" or cowl-like look that showcases the saree's design in an avant-garde way. You can also leave it free-flowing without the tuck.

16. Maharani Style Saree Draping

The Maharani style offers a regal twist to the classic drape, known for its unique finish.

The Base: Start by draping the saree in the standard Nivi style. Pin the pleated pallu to your left shoulder, ensuring you leave a longer tail hanging at the back than usual.

The Royal Touch: Take the loose corner of the pallu from the back, bring it around to the front, and pin it securely to the left side of your chest.

The Final Look: This simple tweak takes an ordinary saree and turns it into something sophisticated and uniquely styled.

17. Lehenga Style Saree Draping

The Lehenga style drape cleverly transforms a regular saree into a voluminous, skirt-like look without needing a separate lehenga. This is a great drape for how to drape a saree for weddings.

The Skirt: Instead of wrapping the fabric flat, tuck individual pleats continuously around your waist to create a full, flared skirt effect.

The Pallu: Bring the pallu from the back to the front and drape it diagonally across the chest, securing it to the back side of your waist.

The Final Look: This style looks great with a waist chain (kamarband) to highlight your shape and add some structure.

18. Cancan (Back Pleated) / Half-saree Style Draping

This drape gives you a really stunning look by adding a voluminous skirt underneath. It creates a gorgeous flare that makes your saree stand out, offering one of the most unique saree draping styles.

The Pallu: Begin by pleating the pallu and securing it neatly to your left shoulder.

The Back Tucks: Bring the fabric around to your back, make staggered pleats, and tuck them securely at the centre of your back waist to bring out the skirt's flare.

The Front Finish: Finally, gather the remaining loose ends, pleat them vertically, and tuck them neatly into the front waistband to complete the look.

19. Retro / Mumtaaz Style Saree Draping

The Mumtaz drape is a retro style famous for its figure-hugging, layered look. It's a classic in the list of traditional saree drapes names.

The Base: Begin by tucking the saree around your waist. Create only 2-3 small pleats and tuck them into the centre front.

The Layers: Wrap the saree around your lower body multiple times. For each round, tuck the top border slightly higher than the previous one to create the signature tiered, spiral effect.

The Finish: Finally, drape the pleated pallu tightly over your left shoulder to complete the fitted look.

To really make those layers pop, try a solid colour saree from Dungrani’s Viscose Sarees collection.

20. Infinity Saree Draping Style

The Infinity Saree drape gives you a sleek, flowing loop effect. It’s a trendy example of how to drape a saree for a modern look.

The Loop: Start with a basic waist tuck. Bring the pallu end around to the front and create loose, staggered pleats, leaving some fabric hanging. Tuck this pleated section securely into your waist.

The Layering: Wrap the remaining middle section of the saree around your back and bring it forward over the tucked pleats.

The Finish: Pleat this fresh layer and pin it to the first tucked part to secure the "infinity" look.

21. Mermaid Style Saree Draping

The Mermaid drape is designed to create a curvy, form-fitting look that flatters your figure. It’s quite unique compared to different saree draping styles because it covers the body beautifully.

The Base: Wrap the saree around your waist and form fewer, spread-out pleats. Tuck them securely at the centre or slightly to the side.

The Pallu: Bring the pallu from the back over your right shoulder so it hangs in the front, distinguishing it from standard styles.

The Finish: Pull the inner corner of the front pallu across your chest and back and pin it on the waist. This creates the signature "fan" effect and a fitted profile.

22. Waterfall Style Saree Draping

The Waterfall drape gives you a flowing, cascading look with a modern twist on the classic saree.

The Waterfall Pallu: Instead of standard vertical pleats, make small diagonal pleats starting from the top corner of the pallu border. Pin this and drape it over your left shoulder to create the signature rippling effect.

The Cowl: Arrange the fabric around your waist to form a soft cowl on the hip, then tuck the remaining lower pleats into the centre.

The Final Look: Pin the drapes in place and add a belt at the waist for a trendy, structured finish.

23. Scarf Style Saree Draping

The Scarf Style drape is great for a chic, modern look. It works best with cotton or thicker fabrics that have decorative ends like tassels, offering a casual take on how to drape a saree.

The Base: Drape the saree around your waist and tuck the pleats as usual. Ensure you leave a shorter length for the pallu compared to standard styles.

The Scarf Wrap: Instead of pleating the pallu over your shoulder, bunch the fabric and wrap it loosely around your neck once, just like a scarf.

The Final Look: Let the end fall stylishly over your chest, keeping the wrap loose enough for comfort and movement.

24. Neck Wrap Style Saree Draping

The Neck Wrap style takes a traditional saree and gives it a unique look that feels like wearing a scarf drape. It is a bold choice among different saree draping styles.

The Base: Start with a standard Nivi drape, tucking the pleats securely at the waist.

The Wrap: Instead of pinning the pallu to your shoulder, wrap it around your neck like a scarf. You can keep it loose, twist it, or bring the end forward to create a stylish V-shape.

The Final Look: This modern hands-free style works perfectly for formal events and gives you both elegance and comfort.

25. Blouseless Saree Drape

With the Blouseless drape, the saree itself becomes the top, so you don't need to wear a separate blouse. But if you want, you can wear a bandeau blouse that won’t show off any straps or sleeves.

The Base: Start by tucking the saree from the back, making very small pleats, and keep tucking them in until you reach your left side. Wrap the fabric around your waist once and tuck it in.

The Structure: Place broad, short pleats on your left shoulder. Then, pleat the remaining fabric facing left and tuck it at your right waist.

The Chest Wrap: Finally, pull the back pallu tightly across your chest to cover the upper body and tuck it securely at the back.

26. Saree Draping With Belt

The Belted Saree style gives the traditional look a modern update by adding structure and a fresh touch. It simplifies how to drape a saree while keeping it secure.

The Base: Begin with a standard Nivi drape. Tuck the saree around your waist, create neat front pleats, and pin the pallu over your left shoulder.

The Belt: Once the drape is set, define your waist with a statement belt, whether leather, metal, or embroidered, positioned over the saree pleats.

The Final Look: This easy addition keeps the pleats in place while showing off your waistline, giving you a sleek, fusion-inspired look.

27. Saree Draping With Cape

The Saree with Cape style blends traditional draping with a modern, high-fashion touch. It is perfect for those exploring different saree draping styles for winter weddings.

The Base: Begin with a standard drape, such as the Nivi style. Ensure your waist pleats are neat and secure, and arrange the pallu comfortably over your shoulder.

The Cape: Layer a stylish cape over your blouse and pallu to add volume, drama, and a modern touch to your look.

The Final Look: Pin the cape for structure or let it flow freely, giving you an elegant, effortless look that's ideal for modern events.

28. Saree Draping With Dupatta

This style uses a contrasting dupatta to create a layered, festive "Half Saree" or "Lehenga" look.

The Base: Start by normally draping the saree as you do in the Nivi-style till you make pleats and tuck it in. Leave the remaining part for later draping.

The Dupatta: Tuck one end of a contrasting dupatta into your centre waist. Wrap it around your back to the front and pin it with the end you tucked. Then, pleat the rest of the dupatta and drape it across your left shoulder. 

The Pallu: Pleat the remaining part of the saree and drape it over your right shoulder, from back to front. This lets the heavy border sit prominently on the body while the dupatta falls down your back.

29. Saree Draping With Shawl

As the name suggests, this style includes a shawl that you drape with your saree for a regal, winter-ready look. It adds warmth to your saree draping styles.

The Base: Create broad lower pleats to minimise bulk at the waist and tuck them into the centre. Keep aside the pallu for now.

The Shawl (Left): Tuck one end of the shawl at your right waist, wrap it around your back and drape it over your left shoulder, mimicking a standard Nivi pallu.

The Saree Pallu (Right): Pleat the actual saree pallu and bring it from the back over your right shoulder. This double-shoulder coverage keeps you warm while looking elegant.

30. Saree Draping With Top

This fusion style pairs a saree with a top or kurti for a comfortable, trendy look. It changes how to drape a saree by replacing the blouse with modern wear.

The Base: Drape the saree around your lower body like a skirt, creating neat pleats and tucking them securely into your waist.

The Top: Wear a short kurti or stylish top over the saree base, covering the waistline for a clean silhouette.

The Pallu: Pin the remaining loose fabric to your left shoulder, allowing it to flow freely or pleating it loosely over your arm for a relaxed finish.

31. Saree Draping With Corset

This fusion style replaces the traditional blouse with a fitted corset for a sculpted, high-fashion look. This is a bold choice among different saree draping styles.

The Corset: Wear a structured corset as your top to define the waistline and add a contemporary edge to the ensemble.

The Drape: Perform a standard saree drape (like the Nivi style), keeping the waist pleats smooth and neat to complement the fitted top.

The Pallu: Pleat the pallu narrowly and drape it over your left shoulder. This keeps the corset visible, making it the focal point of the look.

32. Saree Draping With Jacket / Cardigan

Pairing a traditional saree drape with a jacket or cardigan adds warmth and a sophisticated touch at the same time.

The Over-Layer Look: Follow the standard Nivi drape steps, then wear your jacket. Pin the pallu (pleated or flowing) over the jacket on your left shoulder. You can define your waist with a belt for a structured silhouette.

The Cowl Neck Look: Alternatively, keep the pallu short. After putting on the jacket, wrap the pallu around your neck like a scarf (cowl style) and tuck the ends inside the jacket for a cosy finish that also looks trendy.

33. Saree Draping With Shrug

This layered style combines a saree with a shrug or long shirt for a modern vibe.  It's a good example of saree draping styles for casual outings.

The Base: Begin by wrapping the saree around your waist and neatly tucking the pleats to form the skirt.

The Layer: Wear your shrug or shirt over the base drape.

The Pallu: Take the remaining loose fabric and drape it over your left shoulder, layering it over the shrug. Leave the pallu unpleated and flowing over your arm for a relaxed and breezy look.

34. Saree Draping With Pant

Replace the traditional petticoat with pants for a modern look that feels bold and different. This method of how to drape a saree with pants is popular among celebrities.

The Base: Wear fitted pants instead of a petticoat. Create your saree pleats and tuck them securely into the centre front waistband of the pants. 

The Pallu: Pleat the pallu neatly and drape it over your left shoulder, similar to the classic Nivi style.

The Finish: Use a wide statement belt to define the waist. This secures the pleats and pallu in place while creating a structured, polished look.

35. Saree Draping With Palazzo

This trendy fusion drape pairs the elegance of a saree with the comfort of palazzo pants. It’s one of the most comfortable and different saree draping styles.

The Pallu: Unlike traditional styles, start by pinning a long, pleated pallu to your left shoulder.

The Back Tuck: Gather the inner border of the pallu to make small pleats and tuck them securely into the centre of your back waist.

The Final Look: Bring the remaining fabric forward, pleat the edge, and tuck it into the front of your waist. This open style gives you a stylish look that shows off the palazzo pants beautifully.

Which Types of Saree Drapes Are Best for Your Body Type?

You want to look your best in a saree. The right draping style makes a huge difference. It highlights your best features and hides the areas you are conscious about. Let’s find the perfect drape for your unique shape among the many different saree draping styles:

1. Pear-Shaped Body

You have wider hips and narrower shoulders. You need a style that balances your look. The Seedha Pallu (Gujarati) drape works best for you. This style brings the pallu to the front. It expands your upper body visually. You can also try a classic Nivi drape with a loose, open pallu. This hides the hip width and looks very elegant.

2. Apple-Shaped Body

You might carry weight around your midriff or tummy. You need a drape that covers the waist nicely without adding bulk. The Front Pallu style is a great choice. The pallu flows freely and covers your front torso. You can also try the Coorgi style, which pins the pallu slightly higher. Avoid tucking your pleats too low on your waist.

3. Hourglass Figure

Your shoulders and hips are balanced with a well-defined waist.  You can rock almost any of the saree draping styles comfortably.  The Classic Nivi style highlights your curves perfectly. Want a modern look? Try the Mermaid drape or a Belted saree. These styles define your waist and define your look even more.

4. Rectangular or Athletic Body

Your body is straight with fewer curves. You need drapes that add volume and definition. Wear stiff fabrics like cotton or Organza. The Dhoti style drape adds nice volume to your lower body. You can also try a Mumtaz-style drape. It creates a layered look and adds the illusion of curves.

5. Petite Body

You have a shorter height and a smaller frame. You need drapes that make you look taller. Stick to the Nivi drape with neatly pinned pleats. This creates a long vertical line. Avoid big borders because they cut your height visually. A high-waisted drape also elongates your legs significantly.

6. Plus Size or Voluptuous Body

You have a curvy and fuller figure. You need smooth fabrics like Georgette sarees, Chiffon sarees or Soft Organza sarees that fall well. The Nivi drape with an open pallu looks very elegant. It covers side rolls and flows vertically. Avoid stiff cotton sarees. They might make you look broader than you are.

Try Your Signature Drape With a Dungrani Saree Today!

We hope this guide has inspired you to try something new with your saree. Experimenting with different saree draping styles can help you find what works best for you. You can go with a classic Nivi drape or try something bold like the Pant style, but remember that the most important thing you can wear is your confidence. 

If you want to find the perfect saree to try these styles, check out the stunning collection at Dungrani. And if you need personalised advice on the best sarees for your body type, reach out to us for some expert tips.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which saree drape is most modern?

Right now, the Belted Saree, Pant-style Saree, Palazzo Saree, and Dhoti Drape are some of the most modern ways to wear a saree. These styles blend traditional elegance with a contemporary twist. You can also drape your saree with leggings or pants underneath for a look that's both stylish and modern.

2. Which saree style is easiest to drape?

The classic Nivi drape is generally considered the easiest to learn. However, pre draped saree styles or "ready-to-wear" sarees from Dungrani are the absolute easiest options today. You just slip them on like a skirt, pin the pallu, and you’re all set to go.

3. How many pleats are in a sari?

A standard saree drape usually has between 5 to 7 pleats. The number depends on your waist size and the fabric's thickness. Thinner fabrics like chiffon allow for more pleats than thicker silk or cotton.

4. How to get perfect saree pleats?

Hold the saree fabric firmly with your fingers spread like scissors. Make pleats about 4-5 inches wide. Shake them to align the bottom hem. Secure them with a large safety pin before tucking them in.

5. What are the mistakes while wearing a saree?

One common mistake is wearing the wrong shoes after you've draped your saree. This can throw off the entire length and make it look uneven. Another issue is tying the petticoat too loosely. When it's not secure enough, your saree can slip throughout the day. 

Also, many women use too many pins that end up being visible, which makes the whole look appear messy and unpolished. And finally, picking the wrong fabric for your body type can actually make you look bulkier than you are.