8 Common Saree Draping Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Even experienced saree wearers run into draping troubles. The good news: most problems have simple fixes.

1. Saree Too Short or Too Long

Fix: Always drape while wearing the footwear you'll use. The hem should just touch the floor or sit slightly above it.

2. Uneven Pleats

Fix: Keep each pleat the same width (about 5 inches) and hold the top edges together firmly. Pin them at the top and run your fingers down to straighten them.

3. Bulky Waist

Fix: Use fewer pleats, tuck them flat, and wear a fitted petticoat. Avoid tucking too much fabric in one place.

4. Slipping Pallu

Fix: Pin the pallu securely to your blouse at the shoulder. For silk, use two pins – one visible, one hidden underneath.

5. Loose Petticoat

Fix: Tie the drawstring firmly. A loose petticoat is the main reason sarees come undone.

6. Pallu Too Long or Too Short

Fix: The pallu should fall around the back of your knees. Adjust by changing how much fabric you use in the first wrap.

7. Wrinkled Saree

Fix: Iron the saree before draping, then lightly press the pleats and pallu after draping.

8. Visible Petticoat or Mismatched Colour

Fix: Match your petticoat to the saree's body colour, especially for light fabrics.

Bonus Tips

• Cotton handlooms hold pleats better when lightly starched.
• Practise a couple of times before a big event.
• Keep spare safety pins in your bag.

Practise with a beautiful saree from our Odisha Sarees collection.

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