How to Choose Saree? A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you ready to dive into the beautiful world of sarees? Choosing your first saree can be a bit overwhelming, but don’t sweat it! We’ve got your back. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you pick the perfect saree, step by step.

Top 10 Steps to Choose Your First Saree

Choosing your first saree can feel exciting yet overwhelming with so many fabrics and styles available.

Here’s a simple guide to help you pick the perfect one with confidence.

Step 1: Know the Purpose

First things first, you need to determine why you want a saree. Are you looking for something for a wedding, a festival, or maybe just for everyday wear? Knowing the occasion can make all the difference.

• Daily Wear Sarees: Lightweight and comfortable, perfect for casual outings.

• Office Wear Sarees: Slightly formal, yet comfortable.

• Party/Festival Sarees: A bit more flashy with embellishments.

• Wedding Guest Sarees: Usually more elaborate or colorful.

Think about where you’ll wear your saree, and let that guide your choices!

Step 2: Choose the Right Fabric

The fabric matters, folks! You don’t want to be tugging at a heavy saree all day.

Here are some beginner-friendly options:

• Cotton Sarees: Cotton sarees are breathable and easy to drape.

• Chiffon Sarees: Chiffon sarees are light and flowy, great for special occasions.

• Georgette Sarees: Georgette sarees are a bit sturdier but still lightweight.

Avoid These Fabrics:

• Heavy silk sarees

• Stiff fabrics

• Sarees with lots of embellishments (can be hard for beginners)

Step 3: Understand Length and Width

Most sarees are about 5.5 meters long. When you’re choosing, think about your body type:

• Petite Women: Look for shorter lengths or lightweight fabrics that don’t overwhelm.

• Plus-Size: Opt for fabrics that drape well and flatter your figure.

Step 4: Pick a Color

Now, let’s talk color! This is where you can really express yourself. Here are a few tips:

• Solid Colors: Timeless and classic.

• Pastel Shades: Soft and gentle on the eyes.

• Bold/Dark Colors: Great for evening events.

Skin Tone Matching:

• Fair Skin: Light pinks and soft blues

• Medium Skin: Earthy tones like olive or peach

• Dark Skin: Bright colors like royal blue or bright red

Step 5: Prints & Patterns

Sarees come in all sorts of prints. When you’re just starting out, keep it simple:

• Minimal Prints: Easier to style.

• Floral Prints: Always a winner and can be quite flattering.

• Geometric Patterns: Modern and chic but make sure they suit your taste.

Borders:

Sarees with plain fabrics but a beautifully designed border can be stunning!

Step 6: Draping Style

If you’re new to sarees, it’s best to stick with simple draping styles. The Nivi drape is one of the easiest:

1. Start with a basic pleat.

2. Drape the fabric around your waist.

3. Bring the pallu (the decorative end) over your shoulder.

Watch some tutorials to get it just right – practice makes perfect!

Step 7: Blouse Selection

Your blouse is just as important as the saree! Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Ready-made Blouse: Fast and easy, especially for first timers.

• Boat Neck or High Neck: Both styles are trendy and flattering.

• Comfortable Fabrics: Choose something that won't itch or scratch.

Step 8: Accessories & Footwear

Don’t forget the finishing touches! Here are some essentials:

• Minimal Jewelry: Stud earrings and a simple bracelet go a long way.

• Comfortable Footwear: Flats or low heels are perfect for moving around.

Tip:

Don’t overdo it on the accessories; sometimes, less is more!

Step 9: Set Your Budget

Before you start shopping, figure out how much you want to spend. Remember, sarees can range from very affordable to quite expensive.

• Budget-Friendly: Look for sales or online deals.

• Quality Check: Always check the saree fabric quality and craftsmanship, don’t just go for the price tag!

Step 10: Shopping Tips

Now that you’re armed with knowledge, let’s get shopping!

• Online Stores: Great for variety. Just check reviews and look for return policies.

• Offline Stores: Touch the fabric, try on the saree, and get a feel for what you like.

Pro Tip:

Bring a friend along for a second opinion!

Common Saree Buying Mistakes to Avoid

Even seasoned saree wearers make mistakes.

Here are a few to watch out for:

• Over-accessorizing can take away from your look.

• Choosing heavy fabrics that are hard to manage.

• Incorrect draping or blouse sizes can ruin the outfit.

Conclusion

Well, there you have it! Choosing your first saree doesn’t have to be a headache. By keeping these steps in mind, you’ll be strutting your stuff in no time. So, grab your first saree, have fun with it, and enjoy every moment of wearing this wonderful piece of Indian tradition! Happy saree shopping!