How to wear bandhani saree

 I. Introduction

Bandhani saree, also known as Bandhej or tie-dye saree, is a popular traditional attire worn by women in many parts of India. This saree is unique because of the way it is created, through a tie-dye process, resulting in intricate patterns and designs. When worn correctly, a bandhani saree can make a woman look elegant and sophisticated. However, it is essential to know the right way to wear it to showcase its beauty and intricacy. In this guide, we will provide a step-by-step outline on how to wear a bandhani saree to help you perfect this traditional look.

• Brief explanation of what a bandhani saree is

A bandhani saree is a traditional Indian garment made using a tie-dye technique, also known as Bandhej. This technique involves tying small sections of fabric with thread before dipping it into different colored dyes, resulting in a distinctive pattern of dots or squares. The patterns can range from simple to intricate designs, and the colors used are typically vibrant and eye-catching. Bandhani sarees are popular among women in many parts of India, and they are worn for a variety of occasions, such as weddings, festivals, and other celebrations.

• Importance of wearing it correctly

Wearing a bandhani saree correctly is essential for several reasons. Firstly, bandhani sarees are considered as a symbol of Indian culture and heritage. Therefore, wearing it correctly shows respect for the culture and traditions of India. Secondly, bandhani sarees are intricately designed, and the patterns and colors used in the fabric are meant to be displayed correctly. Wearing the saree incorrectly can obscure the designs and patterns and fail to showcase the unique beauty of the garment. Lastly, wearing the saree correctly can also make the wearer look elegant and sophisticated, adding to the overall visual appeal of the saree. Therefore, it is important to follow the correct steps and techniques for wearing a bandhani saree to fully appreciate its cultural significance and beauty.

II. Preparing to wear a bandhani saree

Preparing to wear a bandhani saree involves selecting the appropriate blouse and petticoat and ironing the saree to remove any creases. Here are the steps:

1. Selecting the appropriate blouse and petticoat: The blouse and petticoat are essential components of wearing a saree. Choose a blouse that complements the saree's color and design and fits you well. The petticoat should be comfortable and match the saree's color.

2. Ironing the saree: Before draping the saree, iron it to remove any creases or wrinkles. This ensures that the saree looks neat and crisp when worn. Be careful not to damage the fabric while ironing it.

By following these steps, you can ensure that you are well-prepared to drape a bandhani saree and present it in its best light.

• Selecting the appropriate blouse and petticoat

Selecting the appropriate blouse and petticoat is essential for achieving the right look when wearing a bandhani saree. Here are some tips:

1. Blouse: Choose a blouse that complements the saree's color and design. You can opt for a contrasting color or a color that matches the saree's dominant shade. Additionally, consider the type of blouse you want to wear, such as a sleeveless blouse or one with sleeves.

2. Petticoat: The petticoat should match the saree's color and be made of comfortable fabric. Choose a petticoat that fits you well and does not create bulges or wrinkles under the saree.

3. Accessories: You can accessorize the blouse with matching jewelry, such as earrings, bangles, or a necklace, to complete the look.

By selecting the right blouse and petticoat and accessorizing them appropriately, you can enhance the overall look of the bandhani saree and create a stunning traditional outfit.

• Ironing the saree to remove any creases

Ironing the bandhani saree before draping it is crucial to remove any creases or wrinkles and ensure that it looks neat and crisp when worn. Here are some steps to follow:

1. Set up the ironing board and iron: Choose an ironing board with a firm surface and adjust it to a comfortable height. Set the iron to the appropriate heat setting based on the fabric type of the saree.

2. Start ironing: Begin with the pallu or the part of the saree that will be draped over the shoulder. Place it on the ironing board and iron it in sections, starting from the edge and moving towards the center. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as this can damage the fabric.

3. Iron the body of the saree: After ironing the pallu, move to the body of the saree. Spread it out on the ironing board and start ironing from the center and work your way towards the edges.

4. Iron the pleats: Finally, iron the pleats of the saree. Take one pleat at a time and iron it flat. Be careful not to create any creases or wrinkles.

By following these steps, you can effectively iron a bandhani saree and prepare it for draping.

III. Draping the saree

Draping a bandhani saree requires practice and patience, but by following these steps, you can drape it correctly:

1. Tuck the saree: Start by tucking one end of the saree into the petticoat at the waist, and then take one full turn around the waist, bringing the other end to the front.

2. Make pleats: Make small pleats in the saree, about 5-6 inches wide, and tuck them into the petticoat at the waist. Make sure the pleats are facing towards the left.

3. Drape the pallu: Take the pallu or the loose end of the saree and drape it over the left shoulder, letting it fall behind the back. Bring it forward from under the right arm and drape it over the left shoulder again. You can pin the pallu to the blouse to keep it in place.

4. Arrange the pleats: Arrange the pleats neatly and make sure they fall straight. Tuck them into the petticoat at the waist.

5. Adjust the length: Adjust the length of the saree by pulling it up or down, as needed, to ensure that it falls perfectly on the floor.

6. Finishing touches: Finally, check if the saree is draped evenly and adjust any folds or pleats as needed. Accessorize the saree with appropriate jewelry, such as earrings, bangles, or a necklace, to complete the look.

By following these steps, you can successfully drape a bandhani saree and showcase its unique beauty and cultural significance.

• Tying the petticoat securely around the waist

Tying the petticoat securely around the waist is important to ensure that the bandhani saree stays in place and looks neat. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Choose a comfortable petticoat: Choose a petticoat made of comfortable fabric that matches the saree's color.

2. Wrap the petticoat around the waist: Wrap the petticoat around your waist and adjust it to your hip size. Make sure it sits comfortably and does not create any bulges or wrinkles.

3. Tuck in the pleats: Tuck in the pleats of the petticoat neatly, making sure they are not too bulky.

4. Secure the petticoat with a knot: Bring both ends of the petticoat together and tie them into a knot at the waist. Make sure the knot is tight enough to keep the petticoat in place but not too tight to make you feel uncomfortable.

5. Adjust the length: Adjust the length of the petticoat so that it falls just below the ankle.

By following these steps, you can securely tie the petticoat around the waist and ensure that the bandhani saree looks elegant and stays in place.

• Making pleats in the saree and tucking them in the petticoat

Making pleats in the bandhani saree and tucking them into the petticoat is an essential step in the draping process. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Hold the saree: Hold the saree at the non-pallu end with both hands, ensuring that the border is facing upwards.

2. Make pleats: Make small pleats in the saree, about 5-6 inches wide. Ensure that the pleats are equal in size and facing towards the left.

3. Tuck the pleats: Tuck the pleats into the petticoat at the waist, starting from the right side. Ensure that the pleats are tucked in neatly, and there are no bulges or wrinkles.

4. Arrange the pleats: Once you have tucked in all the pleats, adjust them to ensure that they are even and fall straight. You can use your hands to arrange them neatly.

5. Tuck in the corner: Take the corner of the saree that is remaining and bring it towards the front, tucking it in at the waist on the left side.

6. Adjust the length: Adjust the length of the saree by pulling it up or down as needed, so that it falls perfectly on the floor.

By following these steps, you can make neat pleats in the bandhani saree and tuck them into the petticoat securely, ensuring that the saree looks elegant and stays in place throughout the day.

• Draping the saree around the waist and over the shoulder

Draping a bandhani saree around the waist and over the shoulder is a crucial step in the draping process. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Tuck the saree: Tuck one end of the saree into the petticoat at the waist and take one full turn around the waist, bringing the other end to the front.

2. Make pleats: Make small pleats in the saree, about 5-6 inches wide, and tuck them into the petticoat at the waist. Make sure the pleats are facing towards the left.

3. Drape the saree over the shoulder: Take the loose end of the saree and drape it over the left shoulder, letting it fall behind the back. Bring it forward from under the right arm and drape it over the left shoulder again.

4. Pin the pallu: Pin the pallu or the loose end of the saree to the blouse on the left shoulder to keep it in place.

5. Adjust the pleats: Adjust the pleats at the waist to ensure that they are straight and even. Tuck them in neatly to avoid any bulges or wrinkles.

6. Adjust the length: Adjust the length of the saree by pulling it up or down as needed, so that it falls perfectly on the floor.

By following these steps, you can drape the bandhani saree around the waist and over the shoulder, showcasing its unique beauty and cultural significance.

• Adjusting the pallu for the desired length and fall

Adjusting the pallu for the desired length and fall is important to ensure that the bandhani saree looks elegant and comfortable to wear. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Check the length: First, check the length of the pallu by holding it up and letting it fall. Ensure that it is not too short or too long.

2. Adjust the pleats: Adjust the pleats in the pallu to the desired length. If you want a shorter pallu, make fewer pleats, and if you want a longer pallu, make more pleats.

3. Adjust the fall: Adjust the fall of the pallu by arranging it neatly over the shoulder. Make sure it falls straight and is not too bulky or heavy.

4. Pin the pallu: Once you have adjusted the length and fall of the pallu, pin it to the blouse on the left shoulder. Make sure the pin is secure and does not show through the saree.

5. Adjust the pleats at the waist: Finally, adjust the pleats at the waist to ensure that they are even and fall straight. Tuck them in neatly to avoid any bulges or wrinkles.

By following these steps, you can adjust the pallu of the bandhani saree to the desired length and fall, creating a beautiful and comfortable drape.

IV. Draping the pallu

Draping the pallu is the final step in draping a bandhani saree, and it is an essential part of achieving the perfect look. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Hold the pallu: Hold the pallu in your left hand, with the pleats facing towards the ground.

2. Bring the pallu to the front: Bring the pallu to the front of the body, over the left shoulder.

3. Adjust the pleats: Adjust the pleats in the pallu to the desired length and fall. Make sure the pleats are even and straight.

4. Pin the pleats: Pin the pleats in the pallu to the blouse on the left shoulder, making sure the pin is secure and does not show through the saree.

5. Adjust the fall of the pallu: Adjust the fall of the pallu to ensure that it is straight and not too bulky or heavy.

6. Final touch-up: Finally, give the saree a final touch-up by adjusting any pleats or folds that may have become disheveled during the draping process.

By following these steps, you can drape the pallu of the bandhani saree with ease, creating a beautiful and elegant look that showcases the unique beauty of this traditional Indian garment.

• Making pleats in the pallu and securing it over the left shoulder

Making pleats in the pallu and securing it over the left shoulder is an important step in draping a bandhani saree. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Hold the pallu: Hold the pallu in your right hand, with the pleats facing towards the ground.

2. Make pleats: Make pleats in the pallu by folding it back and forth, creating even folds. The number of pleats can vary depending on your personal preference.

3. Tuck the pleats: Once you have made the pleats, tuck them into the waistband of the saree at the back, ensuring that they are neat and even.

4. Bring the pallu to the front: Bring the pleated pallu to the front of the body, over the right shoulder.

5. Adjust the length: Adjust the length of the pallu by holding it up and letting it fall to the desired length. Ensure that it is not too short or too long.

6. Pin the pleats: Pin the pleats in the pallu to the blouse on the left shoulder, making sure the pin is secure and does not show through the saree.

By following these steps, you can make pleats in the pallu of the bandhani saree and secure it over the left shoulder, creating a beautiful and elegant look that showcases the unique beauty of this traditional Indian garment.

• Adjusting the pallu for the desired look

Adjusting the pallu for the desired look is an important part of draping a bandhani saree. The pallu can be draped in a variety of styles to achieve different looks, from simple and elegant to more elaborate and dramatic. Here are some tips for adjusting the pallu for the desired look:

1. Length: Adjust the length of the pallu to achieve the desired look. A longer pallu can create a more formal or traditional look, while a shorter pallu can be more casual or modern.

2. Draping style: Experiment with different draping styles to achieve the desired look. The pallu can be draped over one shoulder or both shoulders, or it can be draped diagonally across the body for a more dramatic look.

3. Pleats: Adjust the pleats in the pallu to achieve the desired fullness and drape. More pleats can create a fuller and more traditional look, while fewer pleats can be more modern and streamlined.

4. Accessories: Add accessories such as jewelry or a belt to achieve the desired look. A statement necklace or earrings can add a touch of glamour to a simple saree, while a belt can create a more structured and modern look.

By adjusting the pallu for the desired look, you can create a unique and personalized style that showcases your individual taste and personality.

V. Adding finishing touches

Adding finishing touches is the final step in wearing a bandhani saree. These touches can complete the look and ensure that everything is in place. Here are some tips for adding finishing touches:

1. Check the draping: Check that the saree is draped correctly and that there are no creases or wrinkles.

2. Adjust the pleats: Adjust the pleats in the saree and pallu, ensuring that they are neat and even.

3. Pin the saree: Use safety pins to secure the saree and pallu in place, ensuring that they do not slip or move during wear.

4. Add jewelry: Add jewelry to complement the saree and complete the look. Earrings, necklaces, and bracelets can all be worn with a bandhani saree.

5. Apply makeup: Apply makeup to enhance your features and complement the saree. Use natural or neutral tones for a subtle look or bold colors for a more dramatic effect.

6. Wear appropriate footwear: Choose appropriate footwear that complements the saree and is comfortable for wear. High heels or flats can be worn with a bandhani saree, depending on personal preference.

By adding finishing touches, you can ensure that your bandhani saree looks and feels perfect, allowing you to enjoy the occasion and feel confident and beautiful.

• Pinning the saree and pallu in place

Pinning the saree and pallu in place is an important step to ensure that they do not slip or move during wear. Here are some tips for pinning the saree and pallu in place:

1. Start with the pleats: Begin by pinning the pleats in place at the waist. Use safety pins to secure the pleats to the petticoat, ensuring that they are neat and even.

2. Pin the saree: Take the remaining fabric of the saree and wrap it around the waist, tucking it into the petticoat. Use safety pins to secure the saree to the petticoat, ensuring that it does not slip or move during wear.

3. Pin the pallu: Drape the pallu over the shoulder and adjust it to the desired length and drape. Use safety pins to secure the pallu to the blouse at the shoulder, ensuring that it does not slip or move during wear.

4. Check for comfort: Check that the saree and pallu are comfortable and not too tight or loose. Adjust the pins if necessary to ensure a comfortable fit.

By pinning the saree and pallu in place, you can ensure that they stay in place and do not slip or move during wear. This can give you peace of mind and allow you to enjoy the occasion without worrying about your saree.

• Adjusting any loose ends or pleats

After pinning the saree and pallu in place, it's important to adjust any loose ends or pleats. This can ensure that the saree looks neat and tidy and that everything stays in place. Here are some tips for adjusting any loose ends or pleats:

1. Check for loose ends: Check the saree and pallu for any loose ends or fabric that is hanging out. Tuck these loose ends into the saree or pallu and secure them with a safety pin.

2. Adjust the pleats: Check the pleats in the saree and pallu, ensuring that they are neat and even. Adjust them if necessary to ensure that they look neat and tidy.

3. Check the fall: Check the fall of the saree and pallu, ensuring that they fall correctly and do not bunch up or look too bulky. Adjust them if necessary to ensure that they look graceful and elegant.

4. Final touch-up: Do a final touch-up of the saree and pallu, ensuring that everything looks neat and tidy. Make any necessary adjustments and ensure that everything is in place before stepping out.

By adjusting any loose ends or pleats, you can ensure that your bandhani saree looks perfect and stays in place throughout the occasion. This can give you confidence and allow you to enjoy the occasion without worrying about your saree.

VI. Conclusion

In conclusion, wearing a bandhani saree can be a beautiful and elegant way to celebrate Indian culture and fashion. However, it's important to wear it correctly to ensure that it looks stunning and stays in place throughout the occasion. From selecting the appropriate blouse and petticoat to pinning the saree and pallu in place, every step is important to get the perfect look. By following these steps and adjusting any loose ends or pleats, you can ensure that your bandhani saree looks beautiful and elegant, allowing you to enjoy the occasion with confidence and grace