The Bengali saree tradition boasts a rich tapestry of handloom varieties such as Tant, Deccai, Jamdani, Baluchari, and Garad. However, it is the timeless art of Bengali saree draping that truly enhances the beauty of these fabrics. Iconic movies like Devdas and Gunday have immortalized the charm of Bengali saree draping, setting it apart in a class of its own.
While the nivi style saree has gained popularity for its ease of wear, exploring the intricate draping techniques of traditional styles like the Bengali saree can elevate your ethnic look to a whole new level. The classic 'aatpoure' bridal drape is widely recognized, but we recommend mastering the timeless Bengali saree draping style first for a truly authentic experience.
Here's a step-by-step guide to achieve the elegant Bengali saree draping style:
Step 1: Establish a Solid Base
To achieve the perfect Bengali saree drape, start by tucking the saree at the navel and wrap it around the waist towards the right hip, ensuring a full circle around the navel. The length of the saree should ideally cover your feet or gently graze the top of your feet.
Step 2: Tuck and Fold
Once the initial drape is in place, take a portion of the saree and tuck it around the left hip, ensuring the reverse side shows in the front. Continue wrapping the saree towards the right hip, creating broad pleats at the front, a signature of the modern Bengali saree draping style.
Step 3: Master the Art of Pleating
Pleating the saree, particularly the pallu, is a crucial step in achieving the Bengali saree draping style. Smooth out any wrinkles and ensure neat box pleats for a polished look. Seek assistance if needed to align and stiffen the pleats all the way to the bottom.
Step 4: Drape the Pallu
Drape the pallu across the left shoulder, securing the length around the shoulder with pins for added support, especially in intricate Bengali bridal saree draping styles.
Step 5: Complete the Look
Bring the remaining portion of the saree from the back to the front, passing the pallu under the arm on the right-hand side. You can opt to secure the pallu on the right shoulder with a decorative keyring or let it drape freely over the shoulder. Consider finishing off the look with traditional accessories like engraved keychains on the pallu, long sleeves or elbow-length blouses, and traditional bangles such as Pola or Shankha.
Step 6: Final Touches
To truly embody the essence of Bengali saree draping, accessorize with characteristic elements that enhance the overall look. Embrace heavily bordered silk sarees, intricate jewelry, and traditional accessories to exude elegance and confidence.
Embrace the art of Bengali saree draping at any time, as its timeless appeal knows no bounds. Whether for a special occasion or a simple day, the grace of a crisply draped Bengali saree is unmatched in its refined yet contemporary charm.
