Sari costume

Types of sari costumes

The sari costume is a female garment from the Indian subcontinent that is made of a single piece of long fabric that is draped elegantly around the body. Sari clothing has different styles depending on the regional and cultural backgrounds of the wearers. Here are some of them:

• North Indian Sari Drapes

  In North India, sari costumes are mostly worn in states like Haryana, Rajasthan, Punjab, Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu and Kashmir. The sari draping styles in these areas are the standard style, the Kashmiri style, the Maharashtrian style, the Gujarati style, the Bengali style, and the Tamil style, among others. The standard style is when the sari is draped over a petticoat, where one end of the sari is tucked in the petticoat and the other end is brought back around the waist to be tucked in at the back. The Kashmiri style is when the sari is draped over a churidar and the Gujarati style involves draping the sari over a half-sari.

• Half Sari Drapes

  Half sari drapes are also referred to as Langa Voni in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Chaniya Choli in Gujarat, and Gagra Choli in Rajasthan. In these regions, the half sari consists of three pieces of clothing: a long skirt, a blouse, and a dupatta that is draped over the skirt and blouse. The Chaniya Choli is a combination of a short choli top and a colorful embroidered skirt. The Gagra Choli consists of a long gagra skirt, a choli top, and a dupatta.

• Regional Variations

  There are variations of sari draping styles in India that are influenced by culture, community, and personal preference. For instance, the Maharashtrian style involves draping the sari like a dhoti, whereas in Tamil Nadu, the sari is draped in five pleats. The Odia style drapes the sari over a salwar kameez while the Navadiya style wears it over a churidar.

• Churidhar

  Churidhar is a long tunic with a churidar bottom, which is a tight-fitting trouser that is worn by women in North India. It is also known as a pyjama. The churidar is worn with a short kurta or a long anarkali. Another variation of churidar is the salwar kameez where the salwar is a loose trouser.

• Gharara

  A gharara is a traditional dress from Lucknow, Awadh, and is worn during weddings and special occasions. The gharara costume is made of two pieces of clothing: the long flared gharara pants that are worn with a choli or top, and a dupatta that is draped over the head and shoulders.

• Lehenga

  Similar to the gharara, the lehenga is a long skirt that is worn with a choli and dupatta. The lehenga is a popular wedding dress in India and is also worn in special occasions like festivals and ceremonies.

• Fusion Styles

  In recent years, fusion styles have emerged where traditional sari draping styles are combined with Western fashion. For instance, wearing a sari with jeans or leggings instead of a petticoat. This fusion style allows for greater flexibility and comfort while maintaining the elegance of the sari.

Design of sari costumes

Sari costumes have a diverse range of designs that reflect different cultures, traditions and personal choices. Here are some key aspects of their design:

• Blouse and pallu

  The sari is a long piece of cloth, usually about six to nine yards in length, that is draped around the body. One end of the sari is often pleated and tucked into a skirt or pants, while the other end is draped over the shoulder like a shawl. Sari costumes are made to be worn with blouses, which are short, tight-fitting tops with short sleeves. They are usually made of the same or a complementary fabric as the sari. The pallu is one end of the sari that is draped over the shoulder, and it is often the most decorated part of the sari, with intricate designs, embroidery, or patterns.

• Skirt and petticoat

  The sari is usually worn with a petticoat, which is a long, flowing skirt that is tied around the waist to hold the sari in place. The petticoat is typically made of a lightweight, comfortable fabric like cotton or silk. Some modern sari costumes are designed to be worn with trousers or leggings instead of a petticoat, providing a more contemporary and comfortable fit.

• Embellishments

  Sari costumes often feature a variety of embellishments to enhance their visual appeal. These may include sequins, beads, embroidery, lace, or appliqué work. Such adornments can be concentrated on the borders, pallu, or throughout the sari fabric, adding glamour and elegance to the attire. For instance, a beaded sari costume will have beads sewn into different patterns across the material making it shine and look classy.

• Fabrics

  Sari costumes are crafted from a diverse array of fabrics, encompassing silk, cotton, chiffon, georgette, and more. The choice of fabric holds significance in terms of both comfort and cultural implications. For instance, silk saris are frequently associated with formal occasions and celebrations, given their opulence and weightiness. In contrast, cotton saris are favored for their breathability and ease, making them suitable for everyday wear, particularly in warmer climates. The fabric also influences the draping style and overall presentation of the sari costume.

• Color and patterns

  Sari costumes are available in a wide array of colors and patterns, ranging from vibrant hues to subtle pastels. Traditional patterns may encompass floral motifs, geometric designs, or intricate weaves that mirror specific regional customs and artistry. Contemporary sari costumes often feature modern prints and patterns, catering to evolving fashion trends while retaining the essence of the sari.

• Draping styles

  The draping style of the sari is a critical component of its design and can vary significantly based on regional and cultural practices. There exist numerous draping methods, each with its unique flair and practicality. The most prevalent style, known as the Nivi drape, involves wrapping the sari around the waist and draping one end over the shoulder. Alternative styles, such as the Bengali, Gujarati, or Maharashtrian drapes, entail distinct variations in the manner the sari is wrapped and positioned. These differences can influence the overall look and feel of the sari costume, showcasing the rich diversity within sari fashion.

Wearing/matching suggestions of sari costume

Here are some suggestions for wearing and matching sari costumes. These can help one achieve a cohesive and stylish appearance:

• Wearing a Sari

  Wearing a sari involves draping an unstitched cloth that is about four to nine yards long. Usually, it is worn by Indian women. Normally, the garment is wrapped around the waist, with one end pulled up over the shoulder. In addition, it is paired with a blouse known as a choli. More importantly, the sari is a traditional attire that is preferred during festivals and weddings. Moreover, it offers a blend of elegance and cultural significance. In addition, the sari draping style varies across different regions of India. This is as per the length of the fabric and personal preferences.

• Matching a Sari to Skin Tone and Body Type

  Matching a sari costume to an individual's skin tone and body type enhances their overall appearance. Consequently, it creates a flattering effect. Normally, dark colors like navy blue or deep red complement fair skin tones. Also, bright colors like orange or teal enhance darker skin tones. In addition, lighter shades such as pastel pink or lavender are ideal for medium skin tones. More importantly, the choose of fabric drape and design also assist in accentuating one’s body shape. For example, A-line saris are suitable for those with a pear-shaped body. Conversely, georgette saris create a slimming effect for individuals with an hourglass body shape.

• Sari Draping Styles

  There are more than 80 ways of draping a sari, and each style has a unique name. For instance, the Nivi drape is the most common style of wearing a sari. In addition, the sari is pleated and tucked at the waist. Also, one end of the sari is thrown over the shoulder. More importantly, the Bengali style is different since it requires the draper to start from the right side. This is unlike the Nivi style, which starts from the left. Additionally, the Maharashtrian drape is also unique since it turns the sari into a pair of trousers. This allows one to wear a sari like a pair of pants.

• Matching Accessories

  The sari costume can be enhanced by matching it with the right accessories. For example, a heavy necklace matches a plain sari to enhance its beauty. In addition, a pair of earrings complements the face and balances the overall appearance. Also, a nose pin adds a unique touch since it is not common for many people. Moreover, matching the sari with a statement belt adds a modern touch.

Q&A

Q1: What are the main components of a sari costume?

A1: A sari costume primarily consists of the sari itself, a long piece of fabric usually measuring 6 to 9 yards, draped elegantly around the body. It is paired with a blouse, known as a choli, which is fitted and short, covering the upper body. Many women also wear a petticoat or underskirt, called a ghagra or petticoat, which is tied around the waist to hold the sari in place. Accessories such as jewelry, bangles, and a bindi are integral to completing the sari attire.

Q2: How long does it take to drape a sari?

A2: The time it takes to drape a sari can vary based on the style and the person's experience. Generally, it takes about 10 to 20 minutes for someone who is familiar with the process. However, beginners may take longer, up to 30 minutes or more, as they learn the different steps and techniques involved in draping the sari.

Q3: Can a sari costume be worn for formal events?

A3: Yes, sari costumes are versatile and can be worn for both casual and formal events. Elaborate draping styles, luxurious fabrics like silk, and intricate designs with heavy embroidery or embellishments make the sari suitable for weddings, parties, and formal gatherings. Pairing a sari with statement jewelry and accessories elevates its elegance, making it appropriate for any formal occasion.

Q4: Are there different ways to wear a sari for men's costumes?

A4: Yes, men wear a sari costume differently. The most common way is to drape the sari around the waist and body like a long skirt, often accompanied by a shirt or kurta. Some variations may include wrapping the sari over one shoulder and across the chest, similar to a shawl. While men's sari draping styles are less varied than women's, they still reflect cultural practices and personal preferences.