South Indian Saree: How to Wear It in 5 Stylish Ways

South Indian sarees have an unparalleled cultural elegance, but their versatility is what makes them even more fascinating. The fact remains indisputable that they have held an iconic place in Indian fashion for hundreds of years. These sarees carry an ageless charm that merges culture with modern flair. Women of today are getting creative with drapes, fabrics, and styling to express their personality, and at the same time, they retain the innate beauty of this fabulous outfit.

With the immense popularity of the ready to wear South Indian saree, the ways to style a saree have become more convenient than ever. The fantastic saree collection by Eksutram and festive options like the Chikankari saree have led to new possibilities for saree enthusiasts to embrace the elegance of South India in various fresh ways.

Let us discuss five classic and seamless ways to drape and wear your South Indian saree, each offering a personalized expression that preserves heritage.

The Classic Nivi Drape With a South Indian Twist

The Nivi drape is the most extensively worn style of saree in the country. However, the South Indian version introduces subtle changes that boost the conventional look. This drape allows the outfit’s border, texture, and pallu to sparkle.

How to Style It:

• Use a radiant Kanjiviram, a breathable silk, or even a red Chikankari saree for a festive effect.

• Ensure you keep the pleats sharp and keep them firmly in place for a refined look.

• Style your saree with traditional gold jewelry, temple earrings, and a bun embellished with jasmine flowers.

Why It Works:

It maintains the true character of the saree while adding an understated South Indian grace. This gorgeous attire is an ideal wear for festive celebrations, family ceremonies, or weddings.

The Contemporary Pleatless Drape

For women with a fondness for minimalist yet stunning looks, the pleatless drape is an exquisite option. It is progressively witnessed among women who just cannot do without donning a saree. They admire a modern silhouette without any compromises on cultural appeal.

How to Style It:

• Choose a ready to wear South Indian saree to make the outfit wrapping process faster and more equally proportioned.

• Leave the pallu along and flowing behind the shoulder.

• Experiment with structured blouses, cape blouses, or high-neck designs for a modern feel.

Why It Works:

The absence of pleats creates a fluid, free-flowing look that boosts the richness of fabrics. These include Chikankari, organza, or silk. It is considered the best attire for cocktail events, receptions, and contemporary festive parties.

The Tamil Brahmin Madisar Drape

The Madisar drape is a historic style donned conventionally by Tamil Brahmin women. It has nowadays emerged as a cultural symbol, which numerous women wear to display their heritage with immense pride. 

How to Style It:

• This drape works best with stiff silks from the Eksutram saree collection or similar conventional fabrics.

• Consider adding classic temple jewelry, a waist belt (oddiyanam), and a traditional bun with blooms.

Why It Works:

Madisar is iconic – bold, cultural, and stunning. While it may take longer to master the craft, it creates a unique, dynamic look for various devotional ceremonies, festivals, and traditional weddings.

The Belted Fusion South Indian Drape

Securing the saree at the waist has become a popular trend across the globe, and it merges gracefully with South Indian sarees. Not only does the belt add structure and highlight the waistline, but it also brings a modern touch to a conventional outfit.

How to Style It:

• Drape the saree in a simple Nivi style or a contemporary wrap. Then, add a sleek belt or a traditional kamarbandh.

• Works flawlessly with a red Chikankari saree or pastel-shaded pieces from the fab saree collection by Eksutram.

Why It Works:

This is the simplest method to achieve a fashionable Indo-Western appearance. Creating an Indo-Western look with the use of a belt is effortless. The perfect access is there to keep all things secure while dancing, during outdoor ceremonies, or while attending long events.

Draped in the Kerala Mundum Neriyathum Style

This two-piece drape, inspired by the traditional kasavu saree, gives a fresh, classy take to the South Indian sarees. Characterized by its understated glamour and simplicity, this outfit can be worn in both casual and festively dressy occasions alike.

How to Style It:

• Choose light fabrics or a ready to wear South Indian saree for ease.

• Ensure you maintain a minimalist accessory look! Consider gold bangles, a sleek bun, and pearl studs.

• You can even swap the traditional blouse for a modern one to give it a contemporary touch.

Why It Works:

The Mundum Neriyathum drape is a classic example of subtle elegance. Its minimalism allows the natural gleam and border of the saree to steal the spotlight.

Styling Tips to Enhance Your South Indian Saree Look

Styling plays a significant role in achieving the ideal South Indian saree look, irrespective of whether you prefer a traditional drape or a modern silhouette.

Conclusion

South Indian sarees celebrate artistry, heritage, and womanliness. With numerous ways to drape and style them, these sarees allow every woman to get the most out of the freedom to express her personal aesthetic – contemporary, conventional, or a balanced mix of both. Style your favourite drape with top-quality pieces from the Eksutram saree collection or experiment with distinctive fabrics, including a red Chikankari saree to make your look a memorable one.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How Does a South Indian Saree Differ From Other Saree Styles?

South Indian sarees are extensively known for their rich silks, bold borders, and cultural depth. They bring a classic mix of culture, artistry, and charm.

2. Is a Ready-to-Wear South Indian Saree Ideal for Beginners?

Absolutely! A ready to wear South Indian saree is a perfect wear for beginners as it helps them save time and ensures impeccable pleats. It offers the appeal of a traditional drape with convenience.

3. Which Draping Style is Most Suitable for Festivals and Temple Visits?

The Madisar and Kasavu drapes are considered appropriate for festivals and temple occasions. Not only are they traditional and modest, but they are also stunningly rooted in tradition.

4. Can a Regular Saree Be Styled to Mimic the Half-Saree Look?

Yes, you can wrap the saree like a skirt and have the remaining portion worn as a dupatta-style pallu for a genuine look.

5. What Accessories Pair Best With South Indian Saree Drapes?

Jhumkas, kamarbandhs, temple jewelry, and jasmine flowers boost the traditional grace. For contemporary drapes, belts, and modern blouses work like a charm.