It can be difficult to wear a saree, particularly if you're unfamiliar with Indian style. In addition to a contemporary shortcut—ready-to-wear sarees that don't require pleating or tucking—this article explains how to put on a saree step-by-step.

How to Put on a Traditional Saree Step-by-Step

Step 1: Choose the appropriate base first.

Put on a petticoat (a drawstring underskirt) and a fitted blouse. Wrap the saree around your waist once after tucking it into your petticoat from the right side.


Step 2: Create the pleats

Make five to seven pleats from the untucked part, each about five inches wide, and tuck them into the left-facing center front of your waist. To make the pleats fall evenly, adjust them.

Drape the pallu in step three.

Now cover your left shoulder with the remaining pallu, either letting it fall loosely or securing it with a pin for a more tidy appearance. Depending on your style, you can either leave the pallu open or pleat it.

Advice: If you're new to draping, use safety pins at the waist and shoulder for extra security.

Other Draping Styles You Can Try

 Depending on your region or the occasion, you might also enjoy exploring:

·         Gujarati Style – Pallu draped from the back to front over the right shoulder

·         Bengali Style – Wide pleats and keyring-style pallu drape

·         Madisar / Iyer Style – Traditional 9-yard drape with a dhoti-style bottom

·         Lehenga Style Saree – Looks like a lehenga but draped like a saree

The Contemporary Shortcut: Prepared Sarees

Do you lack the time or self-assurance to drape a saree yourself? Introducing your best buddy for fashionable, stress-free dressing: the ready-to-wear saree. 

Pre-stitched and pre-draped, Swaraj's ready-to-wear sarees are made to resemble skirts. You only need to zip or tie them on, toss the pallu over your shoulder, and be set to go in a matter of minutes—pleating and pins are not necessary!

Ideal for:

Novices unfamiliar with sarees

NRIs searching for fast ethnic looks

Professionals with hectic schedules who need effortless elegance

First-time wearers and teenagers