STORIES BY MANYAVAR & MOHEY

Image without a name


Lifestyle

Reception Saree Draping Styles: Elevate Your Look with Effortless Elegance

Date 17 January 2025 Reading time: 7-10 mins

Shaadi season is in full swing and we know what's on your mind - finding that perfect reception saree that's equal parts glam and comfort! After all, the wedding reception is where you let your hair down (quite literally!) and dance the night away with your loved ones. 



But between greeting guests, posing for photos and twirling on the dance floor, the last thing you want is your heavy saree weighing you down. Enter the reception-ready saree - a lightweight wonder that lets you dazzle without the dread! And the key to nailing this look lies in the draping. The right saree draping for the reception can take your saree from pretty to "pretty jaw-dropping"! 


So whether you're the bride, a bridesmaid or a wedding guest, read on as we decode the best reception saree draping styles that are trending in 2024.

Understanding the Importance of Reception Saree Draping Styles

In a desi wedding, nothing makes you feel more "taiyaar" than a beautifully draped saree. Your reception saree draping style can completely transform your look, taking it from "nice" to "knockout"! 



A well-draped reception saree not only accentuates your best features but also lends grace and fluidity to your movements - a must for all that naach-gaana at the reception. Moreover, your reception saree draping style is a reflection of your personality. A classic Nivi drape exudes timeless elegance, while a funky pant-style drape shows off your experimental side. 



So before you start browsing through those endless Reception Saree Collections, take a moment to think about the draping style that best suits your personality and the vibe you want to create. Trust us, a little thought put into your reception saree draping style can go a long way in making you the star of the reception!

Traditional Reception Saree Draping Styles

For all the classic brides out there, the traditional style of saree draping for reception is the way to go. These time-honoured drapes have been passed down through generations and are a beautiful way to pay homage to your roots. Here are some evergreen traditional drapes for your saree collection that are perfect for a wedding reception:

Bengali Reception Saree Draping Style

Channel your inner Bengali belle with this iconic drape! The Bengali style involves draping the saree around the waist and then bringing the pallu from the back to the front, draping it over the left shoulder. 



The speciality of this drape lies in the wide pallu that is displayed in the front, adding a regal touch. Opt for a quintessential red and white Tant saree or go for a rich Baluchari silk to nail this look. Accessorise with a pair of gold chandelier earrings, shakha pola (red and white bangles), and a big red bindi and you're good to go!



Gujarati Reception Saree Draping Style

Ghoomar your way into the spotlight with this graceful Gujarati drape! Also known as the seedha pallu style, this drape involves bringing the pallu from the back and draping it over the right shoulder. 



The beauty of this saree drape for reception is that it showcases the intricate work on the pallu, making it perfect for heavily embellished sarees. If you're the bride, add a colourful Patola silk saree to your bridal wear collection and accessorise with a Kundan choker and maang tikka for a stunning look. Bridesmaids can go for a lighter Bandhani-print saree in a pretty pastel hue.



Coorgi Reception Saree Draping Style

For a drape that's equal parts unique and comfortable, try the Coorgi style from Karnataka. This drape involves pleating the saree at the back instead of the front and wrapping the pallu around the shoulders like a shawl. 



The result is a fuss-free drape that stays put even through hours of dancing! This drape looks especially lovely with traditional Mysore silk sarees. Keep the blouse simple and let the focus be on the beautiful drape.


Modern Saree Draping Styles for Wedding Receptions

Who says tradition and trend can't go hand in hand? These modern saree draping styles for wedding receptions are perfect for fashion-forward bridesmaids and guests who want to put a contemporary spin on the classic saree.



Butterfly Drape

Straight from the red carpets of Bollywood, the butterfly drape is a sleek and stylish twist on the traditional saree. It involves pleating the pallu into a thin strip and draping it across the torso, resembling a butterfly's wings. 



This drape looks especially stunning with sheer organza or chiffon sarees. Opt for an organza saree and pair it with a strappy blouse for a look that's sure to turn heads!

Lehenga-Style Drape

Not quite a saree, not quite a lehenga - this fusion drape is the best of both worlds! It involves tucking and pleating the saree in a way that resembles a lehenga skirt and draping the pallu over one shoulder like a dupatta. 



This drape is perfect for brides who want the grandeur of a lehenga with the ease of a saree. Choose a Sandstone Beige Rhinestone Work Saree and pair it with a heavily embellished blouse to accessorise your lightweight saree.



Pant-Style Drape

Ditch the petticoat and go for pants with this cool and comfy drape! The pant-style drape is among the top modern saree draping styles for a wedding reception. It involves wearing the saree over a pair of fitted pants or leggings, giving you the freedom to move around with ease. 



This drape works best with lightweight fabrics like georgette or crepe. Take cues from the fashion icons and pair your saree with a crisp white shirt for a look that's high on style and low on fuss!

How to Choose the Right Reception Saree Draping Style

Choosing the right reception saree draping style is all about finding the perfect balance between comfort and style. Here are a few factors to keep in mind while picking your drape:

  • Saree Fabric: The fabric of your saree plays a big role in determining the kind of drape that will work best. Lightweight fabrics like chiffon, georgette and organza lend themselves well to flowy, fuss-free drapes like the butterfly or pant-style drape. On the other hand, heavier fabrics like silk and brocade are better suited for more structured drapes like the Nivi or Gujarati style.
  • Body Type: Different drapes flatter different body types. If you're petite, opt for drapes that create a slimming vertical line, like the Nivi drape or the Lehenga-style drape. If you're curvy, go for drapes that cinch at the waist and flare out over the hips, like the Gujarati drape or the Butterfly drape. And if you're tall, you can carry off pretty much any drape with ease!
  • Occasion: The occasion you're dressing for also dictates the kind of drape you should go for. A traditional wedding ceremony calls for a more conservative drape like the Nivi or Bengali style, while a sangeet or cocktail party is the perfect occasion to experiment with modern drapes like the Pant-style or Butterfly drape.
  • Personal Style: At the end of the day, the drape you choose should be a reflection of your personal style. If you're more of a classic, understated dresser, stick to traditional drapes in muted colours and minimal embellishments. If you're a fashion risk-taker, go all out with experimental and modern saree draping styles for wedding receptions, bold colours and statement accessories!

Tips for Perfect Reception Saree Draping

You've picked the perfect saree and zeroed in on your dream drape. Now what? Here are some tips and tricks to ensure your saree draping for reception is flawless:

  • Start with a well-fitted blouse: A good drape starts with a well-fitted blouse. Make sure your blouse fits snugly and doesn't gape at the chest or arms. A poorly fitted blouse can ruin even the most beautiful saree drape!
  • Pin it up: Saree pins are your best friend when it comes to keeping your drape in place. Use them liberally to secure the pleats at the waist and shoulder. If you're wearing a heavy saree, you can even use a saree belt or waist chain for added support.
  • Practice makes perfect: If you're trying a new drape, make sure to practice it a few times before the big day. This will help you get comfortable with the drape and also give you a chance to make any necessary adjustments.
  • Accessorize mindfully: The right accessories can elevate your saree drape from ordinary to extraordinary. But be careful not to go overboard. Choose one statement piece, like a pair of chandelier earrings or a choker necklace, and keep the rest of your accessories minimal. And don't forget to accessorise your look with a pretty potli bag and a pair of comfortable heels!
  • Walk the talk: The way you carry your saree is just as important as how you drape it. Stand tall, keep your shoulders back and walk with confidence. Remember, the saree is not wearing you, you're wearing the saree!

Ready to Rock at the Reception?

In a sea of lehengas and gowns, a beautifully draped saree is sure to make you stand out at any wedding reception. And with so many stunning draping styles to choose from, there's no shortage of ways to make a statement with your saree. From classic drapes to modern twists, there's a reception saree draping style out there for every personality and body type.



The key is to have fun with your drape and let your personal style shine through. Don't be afraid to experiment with different fabrics, colours and accessories until you find the perfect combination that makes you feel like the best version of yourself. And if you're ever in doubt, just remember the golden rule of saree draping - when in doubt, palla out!



So go ahead and drape your way to reception perfection with Mohey's stunning collection of lightweight and oh-so-glam

MADE IN INDIA
ASSURED QUALITY
SECURE PAYMENTS
EMPOWERING WEAVERS