10 Ways to Style a Banarasi Saree for Different Occasions

10 Ways to Style a Banarasi Saree for Different Occasions

Banarasi sarees are known for their timeless elegance. They have intricate designs and rich fabric texture. Versatile for any occasion, be it a wedding, a party, or a festival. The Banarasi saree never fails to impress.

It is a necessity to have a banarasi saree in every Indian woman’s wardrobe. To enhance your look, you might be looking for a “how to style a banarasi saree” guide. 

Well, look no further! Here are 10 unique Banarasi saree draping styles 


1. The Classic Nivi drape

A staple in banarasi saree draping. Considered to be the first choice for many women. 

It is perfect for family gatherings and cultural events. 

  • How to drape: make a neat pleat near the waist and let the pallu fall over your left shoulder. Then tuck the pleats finely for a clean look. 

  • Additional styling tip: combine with a traditionally styled blouse and add gold jewelry with a gajra for an ethnic vibe.

 

2. The Bengali Style drape

Considered an iconic banarasi saree-wearing style. It is preferred for festive occasions like Durga Puja and cultural occasions. 

  •  How to drape: drape the pallu twice over the left shoulder to create an iconic Bengali look. The pallu should hang long and loose. 

  • Additional styling tip: Wear a moderately large red bindi along with perfectly placed sindoor and heavy gold jewellery to create a regal look.


3. Gujarati Style Seedha Pallu Drape

A first choice for festive occasions like Garba and a wedding function. It has that regal yet traditional look. 

  •  How to drape: Pallu is brought from the back and then draped over the right shoulder. Spread it wide to show its design.

  • Additional styling tip: Pair it up with coloured glass bangles and ethnic necklaces for Garba parties and festive nights

4. Lehenga Styled Drape

If you are wondering how to wear a banarasi saree for wedding occasions. Then the Lehenga Styled Drape is the perfect choice for you! 

This is a fusion look that is modern yet traditional. And makes you stand out at any function. 

  • How to drape: Make a neat pleat of the saree around your waist like a skirt. Then drape the pallu over your shoulder like a dupatta.

  • Additional styling tip: Wear jhumkas and pair it up with a designer blouse for a modern touch.

5. Half Saree Drape

The half saree drape or South Indian style is a styling technique that mimics a lehenga with a dupatta. 

It is perfect for young bridesmaids at weddings as it has a youthful look. 

  • How to drape: Drape the saree in such a way that it mimics a lehenga choli. Use a contrasting coloured dupatta for extra effect.

  • Additional styling tip: Tuck floral designs in hair and floral jewellery for an ethereal look.

6. Double Pallu Styled Drape

This is often done for grand style celebrations and considered a bold style statement. 

  • How to drape: Use two sarees to create a double pallu. Then let both of the pallia fall over the shoulder. 

  • Additional styling tip: Pair up with heavy and intricate jewellery for maximum effect

7. Belted Saree Style drape

Considered a modern look. It accentuates your waist for that ‘chic’ effect. 

  • How to drape: Drape the saree in any style. And then fasten on to the waist with a belt. Use metallic belts or glittery ones for bling.

  • Additional styling tip: pair it up with funky or modern minimalistic jewelry.

 

8. Pant Styled Drape

A first choice for cocktail parties and sangeet nights. 

This Indo-Western style combines a pant with a saree drape instead of a maxi/petticoat. 

It is comfortable and trendy. 

  • How to drape: Wear leggings or pants instead of a petticoat. Drape the saree in whatever style suits you. 

  • Additional styling tip: Use funky jewellery and a small bindi with kohl for maximum effect. 

9. Jacket Styled Drape

Popular for weddings held during winters, a jacket is chosen so that it complements the colour and shade of the saree. 

This keeps you warm and adds a royal touch to your wedding ensemble. 

  • How to drape: Layer the banarasi saree with an ethnic jacket or a long cape. The jacket must be in a contrasting colour so that it complements the whole thing.

  • Additional styling tip: Pair it up with minimalist jewellery or other accessories like a fancy handbag. 

10. Minimalist Styled Drape

Popular for office parties and formal events.

A minimalist styled drape is convenient if you are looking for a quick and effective styling method. 

  • How to drape: Use minimal pleats to drape the saree. Pair it up with a plain blouse. 

  • Additional styling tip: Keep minimal makeup along with light jewelry for an elegant look. 

Banarasi Saree Styling Tips

  1. Choose the perfect blouse to pair with the saree: choose whether a traditional or a minimalist modern blouse works

  2. Use accessories: Traditional jewelry is the way to go, but you can also opt for funky and modern designs. 

  3. Footwear: Heels are ideal for complementing the fall of a saree. However, flat sandals can work if you’re going for a more contemporary look. 

  4. Hair and Makeup: Use buns, curls, or retro hair styles with smoky eyes and eyeshadow.


Conclusion

Banarasi sarees are the ideal go-to wear for any occasion. Learning how to drape them is a skill everyone must have. 

You may own a Banarasi saree, but knowing how to use those different styles for different occasions is important to mix things up. 

Explore our Banarasi sarees Online collections and find your perfect match. at Umay Benaras today!

FAQs

Q. How to select the ideal Banarasi saree draping for my body type?

A: Select a draping style that makes your features prominent.  The Nivi style is suited for most body types, while the lehenga style is for a more curvier look. 

Q. Can a Banarasi saree be worn for a casual event?

A: Yes! Choose a lightweight Banarasi saree with less intricate designs. Use minimal style drapes along with light jewelry to keep things simple and elegant. 

Q. What accessories/jewelry go best with Banarasi sarees?

A: Traditional gold jewelry, jhumkas, gold, and glass bangles work beautifully. For a modern twist, try a belt and pair it up with a designer blouse.

Q. How do I keep my Banarasi saree in place all day?

A: Use safety pins to fix the pleats and pallu together. A blouse that fits well also helps.

 

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