How to pin a saree

A saree is an Indian traditional garment consisting of a long piece of fabric, typically draped over the body and worn with a petticoat and a blouse. Saree is known for its elegance and versatility, with several styles and fabrics to make a choice from. The way the saree is draped can vary depending on the region, personal preference, and occasion. The saree is often considered a symbol of femininity and grace and is a popular choice for formal events, weddings, etc. for a woman. With the rich history of a saree and its cultural significance, the saree continues to be a beloved and timeless choice of fashion for women across the nation and beyond.

Draping a saree is a beautiful and intricate process, but it can also be a little daunting for those who are not familiar with it. With a little practice of it and a little patience, however, any person can learn to pin a saree with confidence.

Here is the step-by-step guide to pinning a saree, from selecting the right saree and petticoat to completing the final touches.

Choosing the right saree and petticoat

Before you start pinning the saree you are wearing, it is important to select the right saree and petticoat for the function. Sarees come in a variety of colors, fabrics, and patterns, each suited for different occasions. There might be required a heavier, more embellished saree for a formal event, while a casual day out might call for a lighter saree that is of more breathable fabric. Similarly, a petticoat you have chosen should be selected in the matching color and style with your saree. The fit of the petticoat should be well around the waist and it should be long enough to reach the ankles.

Preparing the petticoat

Once the saree is selected by you and so the petticoat, it is now the time to prepare the petticoat for the saree. Start by tying the string of the petticoat tightly around your waist. The petticoat should sit hugging your waist without feeling too tight or uncomfortable. The next step you need to do is to take the loose end of the drawstring and tie it in a knot for securing it in place.

Pinning the saree at the waist

After placing the petticoat in place, it is time to start the process of pinning up the saree. First, start by tucking the plain end of the saree into the waistband of the petticoat and make sure the bottom of the saree is touching the ground. Then take the remaining fabric of the saree and drape it around the waist and ensure that the saree is evenly spread out and there are no wrinkles. Bring the saree around to the front and make sure that it is aligned with the center of the waist.

The next step is to take the saree fabric and with it create small pleats on the front side, starting from the center and moving towards the left side of the waist. Each pleat should be of approximately 5-6 inches wide and 4-5 inches deep. Then tuck the pleats into the petticoat’s waistband making sure that they are evenly aligned and spaced.

Making the pleats of the pallu

The decorative end of the saree is the pallu that is draped over the shoulder. For creating the pallu pleats, one needs to take the remaining fabric of the saree and make small pleats again, each approximately 5-6 inches wide and 4-5 inches deep. Make sure the pleats are aligned and even, and hold them together in the left hand.

Placing the pallu on the left shoulder

With the pleats of the pallu in your left hand, the pallu is needed to be draped over your left shoulder, ensuring that it is not too loose or too tight. The pallu’s length should be such that it reaches your knee. To securely pin the pallu, use a safety pin in the blouse on your left shoulder, making sure again that it is not too loose or too tight.

Pinning the saree from the front

The remaining saree fabric is needed to be brought around the back to the front. Tuck the fabric of the saree into the waistband of the petticoat to make sure it is snug around you but does not feel tight. Take the remaining saree fabric and create small pleats in the front, start from the center and move towards the right side of your waist. Then tuck the pleats inside the petticoat.

Finally, the process of pinning a saree is complete and it hardly takes 5-7 minutes to wear a saree once you get used to it.

With a bit of practice and patience, anyone can learn how to pin a saree and achieve an elegant and beautiful look.