When it comes to ethnic fashion, the elegance and allure of sarees is unparalleled. They are stylish, graceful and can instantly add a touch of royalty. From Naomi Campbell's pastel pink saree at the Met Gala to Alia Bhatt's iconic Ajrakh saree at the Joy Awards, celebrities are embracing traditional sarees with stylish modern draping patterns. Mastering the art of draping a saree with the flair and elegance of Bollywood stars is a dream come true for many fashion enthusiasts. From the iconic drape of Rekha to the contemporary chic of Deepika Padukone, Bollywood has been a constant source of inspiration for saree styling. As fashion trends change at a rapid pace, new stylish modern draping styles can be seen everywhere from international award shows to fashion week. 

If you are a saree lover and want to take your ethnic look to the next level with modern draping styles, we are here to help. Here is our special draping guide inspired by Bollywood celebrities. Get ready for a stylish makeover!

Bollywood-inspired saree draping styles

1. Pair your saree with dupatta or a head veil

Conventional brides are ditching the lehenga in favour of a saree with a veil, as seen in Deepika Padukone's first reception in Mumbai and Alia Bhatt's wedding ensemble of a white ethereal saree. Your overall look is enhanced with a lehenga sari, but a second dupatta can add regal drama. You can add a touch of beauty and grace to your saree costume by accessorising it with a dupatta or head veil. These adaptable accessories, which can be worn as a headscarf or draped over the shoulder, add cultural significance and functionality to your outfit while making it look more elegant.

2. Create an ethnic look with two sarees

Alia Bhatt's Ajrakh saree look with a unique drape of two sarees is the one that needs to be bookmarked. If you thought draping your saree with an extra dupatta was too much, welcome to the two-saree look. First, decide on your fabrics. Choose a sheer fabric, such as organza or net, for one of the sarees and a patterned or Benarasi weave for the other. Both sarees need to be draped together, the sheer one over the other, in the usual way, until the bottom folds for the pallu are reached. Place one pallu over your left shoulder and the other over your right, then cover your head with your dupatta to complete the look.

3. Drape a saree over your lehenga

For those who want to incorporate the grace of a saree into their glittering lehenga ensemble, Pooja Hegde's half-saree outfit is the ideal source of inspiration. If you've been debating for years whether to wear a custom-made lehenga or your mother's ancestral sari, consider draping the saree over your lehenga like Pooja Hegde. Although there are many pre-stitched lehenga saris on the market, there's nothing like making your own, especially as the technique for achieving this look is so simple. To secure the pallu, simply fold it several times more than usual, tuck it over the waist of the lehenga and bring the remaining pallu over the shoulder to secure it.

4. Pant saree drape for a chic look

Shilpa Shetty is the queen of saree looks and she keeps experimenting with the six yards of grace by adding belts to capes. Recently, the stylish diva turned heads when she swapped the petticoat with pants for a modern saree look. This trend has already been embraced by celebrities who have added denim, leggings, dhoti pants or even palazzos to their saree ensembles. Moreover, though it looks quite complex, it is not too difficult to recreate. You can definitely try this drape for any pre-wedding functions you have to attend, although it may not be the best choice for a large gathering. To wear it, simply throw the pallu over your shoulder in the usual way, pleat the rest of the saree and tuck it into your trousers.

5. Dhoti-style draping

Again on the list we have Shilpa Shetty, this time the diva stunned in a dhoti-style draped yellow saree with a border of intricate gold embroidery. The diva wore it with an embroidered blouse with a sweetheart neckline and embroidered embellishments in a matching colour. The dhoti drape has become a popular and adaptable way to wear a sari, combining traditional Indian dress with modern flair. Based on the traditional dhoti, this drape involves pleating the saree and wrapping the legs to create a distinctive and fashionable look, similar to draped trousers. Modern fashionistas looking to make a statement often choose the dhoti drape for its effortless lines and easy fit, which provides comfort and sophistication.

6. Ruffle saree drape

Our Desi Girl Priyanka Chopra is here to show you how to slay the trendy frill saree with modern draping for a glamorous ethnic look. The ruffle saree drape is a modern interpretation of traditional Indian attire that combines the fun charm of ruffles with the grandeur of a saree. By adding layers of ruffles around the edges of the saree, this creative draping technique adds depth and movement to the garment. Those who want to make a big fashion statement will love the dramatic and eye-catching effect of the cascading ruffles. A contemporary take on a timeless classic, the ruffled saree drape allows you to express your individual style with flair and panache, whether you opt for dramatic layers or delicate ruffles.

7. Belted saree drape

Manushi Chhillar's black saree look with a Sabyasachi statement belt and fishnet elbow-length gloves is the look to remember for all ethnic fashion lovers. The addition of a chic belt not only elevates the look but also gives it a unique modern touch, adding glam vibes. You can accentuate your waist, create a flattering silhouette and enhance your look by adding a fancy belt to your saree ensemble. You can experiment with a variety of styles and accessories to suit your unique taste with the drape of a belted saree, be it a sleek metallic belt for a touch of glamour or a statement leather belt for an edgy vibe.

Culled from Hindustan Times