Maharashtrian style drape is unique and very different from the urban or Nivi style of wearing sarees. These are also called Nauvari Sarees and the length of the saree is 9 yards. This is much more than the usual 5.5 metres saree. The reason for this extra length is its exclusive style of wearing unlike any other saree. It is believed that this style came into existence keeping in consideration the comfort of women.
The women who were warriors or the women who worked in fields needed a style which allowed them to use their legs freely. In Maharashtrian style saree it is easy to climb the horse and sit cross legged or sit on the floor.
Paithani Sarees look the most beautiful because of the sheen that they carry. These are generally of cotton silk or soft silk material. They are adorned with distinct golden or weaved border. These sarees are popular all across the globe and are known for the grace and elegance that they lend to their wearer.
A traditional nose pin or ‘nath’ and green bangles are a must with Nauvari saree. Temple jewellery and a traditional crescent-shaped bindi complete the look. Another interesting feature is that this saree is not worn with a petticoat or inner skirt. Rather it is worn with a pair of tights or legging which must be knee length.
Now let us learn to wear Maharashtrian Style Saree in a perfect manner. Wear a blouse made of Khun fabric which complements the saree. Keep the safety pins ready and put on your flat sandals or Kolhapuri chappals to get that perfect look.
Follow the following steps:
Bring the saree from behind your back with one-meter length on the left side in your hand while the rest of the length lies on the right-hand side. Hold the two ends of the fabric along the border and tie a knot to tightly secure in the center of the waist. Tuck in the knot. Ensure that you have one meter or more of saree on the left side.
- Beginning from the left side where you have the maximum length of the saree, gather the entire length from the Pallu side. Likewise we do with the traditional saree, take the pallu around the back and bring it to the front, over the left shoulder. Now check again that the rest of the length is loose.
- To begin the pleating, hold the saree at a place where it has been knotted at the waist on the right side and make pleats around 4 inches. The entire length of the loose fabric will have 8-9 pleats. Tuck them into the center.
- Form the pleats with the one-meter of the saree on the left side and then carry them between the legs and tuck behind. Ensure that the border is visible on both the sides at the back.
- Make the pleats for the Pallu to get that neater look. All you have to do is make the drape come across more neatly over the back and hip and then over the shoulder to come around the waist.
Note: This is one of the variations of Maharashtrian style saree which is easy to wear and make your curves stand out. For more such tips, keep visiting Indian Wedding Saree.