Draping Bengali Sarees
An Art That Every Woman Must Master
Bengali sarees are known for their beautiful artistry, bright patterns and deep rooted cultural influences. Wearing a Bengali saree is an age-old practice that has been taught to women over time enabling them to be creative and yet respectful of the dress code. In this blog, we will take a look at the different types of draping Bengali sarees, the ways to wear them and how to wear beautiful embellishing blouses, Paithani being one of those very popular designs.
Understanding Draping Bengali Sarees
Bengali sarees are one of a kind in terms of their weaving styles, patterns and colors. These sarees are mostly produced using cotton, silk or tant materials. Each category of a saree holds importance and is worn on different events. The artistic ability in crafting these types of wear is highly appreciated, thus making them a prized possession.
Types of Draping Bengali Sarees
Tant Sarees: These include a traditional hand woven saree from Bengal which is typically made of fine cotton thread and designed to be light and airy.ñ What is more, tant sarees are usually free from heavy embellishments.
Baluchari Sarees:
The sarees are revered for the ornate designs of their pallus, often depicting divine figures and events from famous epics. Baluchari Sarees are usually available in urban areas in silk only.
Murshidabad Silk Sarees:
Made of exquisite soft lustrous weaves, they are often heavily embroidered. These types of sarees are more formal and usually worn to parties and weddings.
Korial Sarees:
Korial sarees can be defined as off-white or white sarees with colorful borders. Such type of sarees is also available in varied prints however, it is predominantly used for pujas and marriages.
The Art of Draping a Bengali Saree
Draping a Bengali saree can be quite soothing but it takes time as one has to practice over and over again. Here is a stepwise guide for you to learn this skill in other words how to drape a saree.
Step 1: Preparation
Before you begin, it is important to make sure that certain requirements are met such as: a saree, a blouse that matches the saree and safety pins. It is preferred that you also put on a petticoat that goes well with the saree.
Step 2: Tucking the Saree
Starting from the Right: Take the saree and tuck it into the petticoat towards your right waist.
Wrap Around: Rotate the saree in one revolution around the waist ensuring the fabric has distributed evenly.
Step 3: Pleating
Make Pleats: Take a portion of the saree, grasping 5-7 inches width and fold into pleats. In conventional ways, we create six to eight pleats, by the length of the saree.
Secure The Pleats: The pleats will be held using a safety pin at the midpoint of the waist.
Step 4: Donning The Pallu
Drape Pallu Over The Shoulder: Hold the pallu of the saree and make a slight rotation of the arm to the left so that the pallu goes over the left shoulder.
Adjust The Length: Make the pallu sit properly at your back, usually sitting by your knees or ankles.
After sewing the final hem, it is time to make the last adjustments so that everything fits properly. The most important consideration about the saree is rather it’s a fitting — not too fitting, not too loose. When you have done that, use safety pins to attach any free dangling parts of the saree so that, the saree remains intact throughout the day.
Saree And Perfect Blouse: Bengali Scenario
A perfect blouse has a good ability of giving the best look to any saree. The right fit blouse will make your curves beautiful and give modernity to ethnic wear.
Specifications of Paithani Blouse Design
Rich Fabrics: Most Paithani blouses come in rich colored and luxurious materials such as silk which is very well falling.
Embroidery Work: These blouses also have beautiful and complex embroidery work especially the zari work which embellishes the blouse beautifully.
Different Styles: Paithani blouses range from the classical rounded shapes to sleeves of modern, elegant boats.
Pairing Tips
Color Play: Try to make sure that the color of the blouse goes well along with the color of the saree. A differing color of the blouse will make the wearer stand out, matched colors will create balance.
Neckline Choices: Pick a neckline that you are comfortable with. Boat necklines suit wider framed women’s shoulders; while high necklines tend to sleeken the silhouette of the wearer.
Length of sleeves: Play around with the sleeve styles such as sleeveless, cut off sleeves or elongated sleeves depending on your preference.
Renowned Styles of Draping a Bengali Saree
- Traditional Bengali Style: This style of wearing a saree is done by making the pallu more prominent. The pallu is held over the left shoulder and allowed to fall down. This is the most common way of wearing Bengali sarees that most women prefer during festivals.
- The Contemporary Take: This style is draping the saree in a slightly different approach. In this case, the pallu is designed to tuck around the waist so that a clear line is created. This is a common look during events that require a more formal appearance and is loved by young females.
- The Half Saree Look: This draping style is basically halfway between wearing a sari and wearing a lehenga. The sari is wrapped in such way that there is a look of a half saree, enabling the wearer to move freely. This particular style is fast becoming popular because it has a modern touch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Any kind of blouse can be worn with a Bengali saree, but preferably one with heavy embroidery work or modern designs such as the Paithani blouse, are recommended.
Most of the time, safety pins are used to attach the pleats and the pallu so that the saree does not come out of place all day. Besides that, the correct size of the petticoat worn can also do the magic.
Of course, there are styles intricately designed for each occasion. For example, traditional designs such as the Classic Bengali Style are preferred on almost all festivals. However, contemporary versions may be selected for parties or formal events.
Cotton sarees are the best recommended when it comes to everyday activities because they are quite light and breathable. Tant sarees are also a favorite.
Certainly, if someone is willing to practice, they can learn to drape a Bengali saree. It helps a lot more and it is easier and more pleasant as well to use the instructions in a guide that breaks the procedure down in steps.
CONCLUSION
Draping a Bengali sari is beyond merely putting on the garment; it is also an expression of culture, tradition, and art. A Bengali sari is definitely unique with its patterns and vibrant prints that can make any woman feel good about herself. The wearer’s aesthetic is further improved when the sari is matched with a chic blouse such as the Paithani blouse.
In your quest to master the art of wearing a Classic Bengali sari, remember that each and every design has a history. Appreciate the wonder of this traditional outfit and relish how you will be able to style it your way. No matter whether it is a function, wedding, or even just a weekend wear, Bengali saris will always be special for all the people who wear them. Njoy draping!
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