How to drape a saree like a pro: Step-by-step guide for you to slay this festive season

With the festive season knocking at the door, sarees are about to take over your social feed and your friends' wardrobes. Everyone’s going to be flaunting their drapes, so why shouldn't you? Don’t worry if you don’t have someone to help with the pleats—because this step-by-step guide has got your back! Here's how to master the art of saree draping, no desi auntie required.

Step 1: Get Your essentials right

Before you even think about draping, get your must-haves ready:??

Petticoat (Underskirt): This is what gives the saree its structure—make sure it matches or is a nude shade!??

Blouse: Fit is key. Make sure it's snatched!??

Safety pins: The real MVPs of your draping process. They’ll keep things in place, just like that one friend who keeps your life together.

Step 2: Tuck it like a pro??

First thing first, wear the heels that you are going to be wearing with your saree, and then wear the petticoat, secondly start with the non-fancy end of the saree (yes, the boring side), then tuck it into your petticoat just to the right of your belly button. And make sure it’s just touching the floor—not dragging.

Step 3: Wrap it, don’t snap it

Once you’ve got the tuck down, wrap the saree all the way around your waist like a pro, bringing it back to the front. Easy, right?

Step 4: Pleat like you mean it??

Time to get those pleats. With the fabric in front of you, start folding about 5-7 pleats—roughly 4-5 inches wide each. Then make sure those pleats are looking neat. We want classy, not messy.

Step 5: Tuck those pleats??

Got your pleats ready? Now here comes the tricky part! Tuck them into your petticoat right in the centre, and make sure it looks flat and not bulgy, then secure them with a safety pin because we’re not here for wardrobe malfunctions.

Step 6: The moment of truth: Drape the Pallu

Now, grab the fancy part of the saree (yep, the Pallu!) and drape it over your left shoulder like a diva. Make sure it hits around your knees or mid-thigh, depending on your vibe. You can leave it loose for that effortlessly chic look, or pleat it and pin it to your blouse for some boss-babe energy.

Step 7: Final touches

Check those pleats, make sure they’re not going rogue, and add a pin or two to keep them in place. Lastly, adjust the pallu and make sure it’s sitting perfectly on your shoulder—because you know everyone’s gonna be checking out your drape game.

Optional: Bring on the glam??

Add an extra pin near your shoulder for security (no mishaps today).? Style by stacking on some bangles, add a cute bindi, and finish it off with killer earrings. You’re not just wearing a saree—you’re owning it.

That’s it! You’re officially draped and ready to slay. Now go out there and stun everyone with your saree skills—no helping hand required.