How to wear a saree if you have never worn it before

Wearing a saree for the first time can feel like a rite of passage, a graceful dance between tradition and personal style. It’s six to nine yards of sheer elegance, and if you've never draped one before, don’t worry - you are not alone. Many saree first-timers feel intimidated by the pleats, pins, and pallu. But trust us, once you wear one, you’ll understand why it’s one of the most loved garments in Indian culture.


Whether you’re gearing up for a wedding, a festival, or just a cultural event, this guide will walk you through how to wear a saree confidently, even if you’ve never touched one before.


Start with the right saree fabric
If it’s your first time, skip heavy silks or slippery chiffons. Instead, go for fabrics that are easier to manage like cotton-silk, georgette, crepe, or linen. These materials drape well, hold pleats easily, and are less likely to slip off your shoulder.


Pro tip: A saree with a thin border is less bulky and more manageable for beginners.


Choose a well-fitted blouse and petticoat
Before you even touch the saree, make sure you have:


A well-fitted blouse (choli) that complements your saree. Avoid ill-fitting tops—they can make the saree look messy and uncomfortable.


A matching petticoat (a drawstring skirt you’ll tuck the saree into). It should match the base color of your saree and sit comfortably at your waist.


Make sure both garments allow easy movement and breathing. A snug but not tight fit is key.


Learn the basic saree draping steps
Here’s a simplified step-by-step process for the classic Nivi style (most commonly worn in India):


Step 1: Tuck and wrap
Start by tucking one end of the saree (not the pallu) into the petticoat, just to the right of your navel. Begin wrapping it around your waist from right to left, tucking the top edge of the saree into the waistband until you’ve gone around once.


Step 2: Make the pleats
Now, with the remaining fabric, start making pleats - around 5 to 7 pleats, each about 5 inches wide. Stack them neatly on top of each other and make sure the pleats fall straight down like a waterfall.


Tuck the pleats into the centre of your waist, slightly left of the navel. Secure them with a safety pin through all layers to avoid slipping.


Step 3: Drape the pallu
Now take the rest of the saree and bring it around your body from left to right. Drape it over your left shoulder, making sure it covers your bust diagonally. The loose end that falls over your shoulder is called the pallu.


You can either:


Leave it hanging free for a casual look


Pin it to your blouse for security


Pleat it neatly and pin it for a formal, put-together appearance


Bonus tip: Add a brooch or decorative pin to the shoulder for flair and function.


4. Use pins wisely
Safety pins are your best friends—use them to secure:


The pleats at your waist


The pallu at your shoulder


The back of your blouse (if needed)


Just don’t overdo it. Use minimal pins to maintain the flow of the fabric while keeping it in place.


5. Wear the right footwear first
Always wear your heels or wedges before you start draping. The saree’s length depends on your height with footwear, and changing shoes after you’ve draped can cause the hem to drag or look uneven.


Practice makes perfect
The first time might take you 30–40 minutes. Don’t be disheartened! The more you try, the faster you’ll get. Practicing in front of a mirror helps you understand how the fabric flows and how the saree sits on your body.


Watch a few tutorial videos for visual guidance or ask a friend or family member for help if possible.


7. Add accessories and confidence
No saree look is complete without a few finishing touches:


A pair of statement earrings or jhumkas


A bindi (optional, but adds traditional charm)


Bangles or a bracelet


A sleek hairstyle or bun


And most importantly, walk with confidence. A saree is not just a garment, it’s a celebration of your grace and personality. Own your look, and you’ll feel like you’ve worn it a hundred times before.

Video
Wearing a saree for the first time is more than just putting on clothes - it’s an experience steeped in heritage, emotion, and elegance. With the right fabric, some practice, and a little patience, you’ll discover the timeless magic that makes the saree an enduring fashion icon.


So don’t overthink it - embrace the fabric, enjoy the drape, and get ready to turn heads with your new favourite outfit!