The saree is a part of the Indian ethnic wear scene in all its glory. The magical 6 to 9 yards of allure are etched deep in the hearts of every Indian beauty who shares a story with traditional sarees. But did you know that there are over 100 styles in which you can wear a saree? From this sea of styles, one drape makes an exceptional mark. Yes, we are referring to the Nivi saree drape. The pallu of the saree falls over the left shoulder in this quintessential drape. This is what most, if not all Indian women are seen wearing in the present day and it’s the drape that gets the maximum attention. The reason it is very popular is due to its perfect mix of modesty, practicality, and trend. Its simplicity, global appeal, and understated chic have helped its reputation travel far and wide. The Nivi drape is also very easy to wear, and therefore, it becomes the favorite among saree wearers who are wearing it for the first time. There is an even pattern and a graceful drape that enhances the saree without all those complex knots. This style is also quite easy and can be worn effectively with most saree materials like silk, cotton, chiffon, and so on. So, for today, letโs focus on this magical saree drape. Keep reading to learn all about the Nivi Saree drape.
The Rich and Colorful History of Nivi Style Draping
The history and evolution of the Nivi style is as fascinating as the drape itself. This drape has been worn since ancient times for which poetic verses such as Haribhadraโs 8th-century Indian work Samaraichcakaha, written on the draping styles of women, mention the way in which a woman dresses in a sari is samaraiicc sooter ni complete with saakeji denkana daughter who canโt escape by throwing her pallu over his head! Additionally, the Nivi drape is also seen in the Ajanta cave frescoes with folded pleats tucked about and behind the legs. This form is known to have developed in Andhra Pradesh. This is further supported by the Nivi drape’s striking resemblance with the Vesti that also requires pleating and tucking at the waist. In addition, the name of this drฤpe was also called Nivi bandha when worn by women at this period, further substantiating it.
Itโs believed that the contemporary form of Nivi drape was introduced by Jnanadanandini Devi Tagore, who is often assumed to have been social influencer back in her days. It was rare to see a saree with a blouse before the British period. But the Englishmen forced the Victorian era values in India, and Tagore wore an ensemble that included a blouse, petticoat and Nivi drape. She wanted to blend in while standing out among the Britishers. She was the first to introduce the left shoulder versus right idiotic draping of sari pallu. She also ran an ad in a womenโs magazine named Bamabodhini Patrika to promote this draping.
The Nivi drape has a social effect. This was a costume in the colonial days, to show that we were not Brit foolish. Bollywood and other Indian films have portrayed the Nivi draped saree as a symbol of elegance. Even the celebrated painter Raja Ravi Varma chose to paint women in the Nivi style saree, which became an ideal attire for women Republic of India. The Nivi drape is also extremely functional, and, therefore, became the garment to be worn for women who were starting to participate in public spaces like schools, colleges and workplaces. Additionally, in art, cinema and pop culture, the drape is considered as a symbol of femininity, elegance, and panache.
Click here to find the Complete Guide to the Indian Saree
Fabrics That Work Best for Nivi Style Draping
Cotton Sarees
These sarees are the very definition of elegance meeting comfort. Breathable cotton fabrics like Chanderi, Kanchi, or Handloom cotton can be draped elegantly with the Nivi style drape. Various cotton weaves, such as Jamdani and Begumpuri, also work well with this style. Perfect for daily wear and office wear, cotton sarees and the Nivi drape are truly a match made in fashion heaven.ย
Silk Sarees
The Nivi style is one of the most common and elegant ways to drape a silk saree. It creates a sleek silhouette that is to die for. This draping style is versatile and can be pleated for both formal occasions or daily wear. The decorative pallu is left flowing over the left shoulder, making it perfect for showcasing rich silk fabrics like Kanjeevaram or Banarasi.ย
Georgette, Chiffon, and Crepe Sarees
The Nivi style in these light drapes focuses on neat pleats and a graceful pallu tossed over the left shoulder. Small, neat pleats are often made when styling these sarees. The pleats made are also narrower, and additional pins or inner loops are used to prevent slippage.ย
The Nivi draping style is renowned for its versatility and can be used with various fabrics such as cotton, silk, georgette, chiffon, and more. However, the fabricโs weight and texture can heavily impact the draping style as well as the final look of the saree. Lightweight sarees like chiffon and georgette require more pleats to hold the saree in place. However, heavier sarees like silk and cotton work with fewer pleats as well. Structured fabrics such as cotton or heavy silks will have a more defined shape over the shoulders. On the flip side, lightweight fabrics like chiffon and georgette create a soft and fluid flow for the pallu.ย
Click here to know more about different saree fabrics in detail
Everything You Need For Nivi Style Saree Drapingย
Saree and a Blouse
You need to start with the basics. First, pick a saree and blouse of your choice. The saree can be 5.5-6 yards in length. The blouse, a fitted upper garment worn with the saree, comes in a variety of patterns. It can be full-sleeved, half-sleeved, halter-necked, sleeveless, or boat-necked, to name a few.ย ย
Petticoat
Also known as the underskirt, this is a full-length skirt that is worn underneath the saree. It is typically made with cotton or satin and has firm ties securing it to the waist. Pick one that matches or complements the saree color.
Pins
Once you pleat the saree, it is secured with a waistband pin or saree pin. Further, safety pins are used to secure the pallu to the shoulder.ย
The Complete Step-by-Step Guide to Nivi Style Draping
To achieve the perfect Nivi drape, follow the following simple steps. Master the basics so that you know how to drape your saree confidently.ย
Step 1: Start with the sareeโs plain end. Tuck it into the petticoat at the right end. Wrap it around your waist counter-clockwise. Keep tucking until you complete one full round.ย
Step 2: The next step is to gather the saree in the front and make 5-7 neat pleats. They can be 4-5 inches wide, depending on the saree fabric. Ensure that you align the bottoms of the pleats. Proceed to tuck the pleats into the petticoat, slightly towards the left of your navel. Secure the pleats with a pin.ย
Step 3: Bring the pallu over your back and neatly drape it on the left shoulder. Donโt forget to adjust the pallu length so that it falls to your knees or calves. Secure the pallu with safety pins. You can also make small pleats on the pallu for structure.ย
Step 4: Adjust the saree for polish and comfort. Tidy the pleats, check the hemline, and check the saree fall.
The Best Nivi Drape Accessorising and Styling Tips
Choose the Right Jewelry
Instead of randomly stacking up jewelry, go for pieces that bring out the charm of your saree. A choker or layered necklace works like magic. Opt for statement earrings such as Chandbalis or Jhumkas. Choose a dainty Mang tikka if you are dressed up for a wedding or festival.ย
Select Proper footwear
While high heels and Nivi draped sarees are a match made in fashion heaven, you can also go for embellished juttis or mojaris for comfort.ย
Pick the Ideal Handbag
It is but obvious that you will need a handbag to carry your essentials when you wear a saree. Go for a bag that complements, not competes with, your saree. Embroidered clutches or potli bags are the perfect ethnic pick.ย
Go for Classic Hair Adornments
Hair adornments such as traditional hair pins or fresh flowers in your hair can elevate your Nivi drape look instantly. You can even opt for decorative hair clips or embellished barrettes for a contemporary vibe.
Indulge in Saree Belts
Saree belts add structure to your silhouette and refine it with ease. You can go for a metallic or embellished saree belt that matches or contrasts the fabric or color of your Nivi -draped saree.ย
Different Ways to Style the Pallu in Nivi Draping
Open Pallu Style
In this draping style, the pallu is left open, without any pleats. This style is particularly suited for heavily decorated and ornate pallus. The open Pallu draping works for weddings and celebrations and adds delicate charm and femininity to the look.ย
Neatly Pleated Pallu
Another stunning way that you can style your Pallu is in the neatly pleated form. In this style, 4-5 small Pallu pleats are made and then attached to your left shoulder with safety pins. The neatly pleated Pallu works well for professional and formal occasions.ย
Reversed Pallu
Also known as Ulta Pallu, in this style, the Pallu is brought from the back, over the right shoulder, and then across the front. It is often draped with pleats and offers a completely different and fresh aesthetic.ย
Blouse Styles That Complement the Nivi Drapeย
The right blouse will act as a statement piece, elevating even the simplest of sarees. When styled correctly, the blouse adds a modern flair to the otherwise traditional look. You can also style the same saree for different occasions by simply switching up the blouse. Here are a few blouse styles that accentuate the Nivi drape:
Elbow-length Blouses
A staple in the bridal trousseau, these blouses offer a larger canvas to showcase the intricate embroidery and embellishments. These blouses, when paired with the Nivi drape, can create an amazing, high-fashion fashion opulent look.ย
Round Neck Blouses
This blouse style creates a classic, elegant Indian look that is hard to beat. A marriage of simplicity and sophistication, choose a round neck blouse for everyday glamor.ย
V Neck Blouses
Modern V-neck blouses add instant charm to your Nivi drape. This one is for women who want to add style to their look without trying too hard. You can opt for a sleeveless or full-sleeved V-neck blouse for style and panache.ย ย
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Nivi Draping Styleย
- Uneven Pleats: A properly draped saree should have neat, uniform pleats. If they are too broad, then it creates a bulk at the midsection. However, if the pleats are too thin, they become difficult to manage and tend to slip off.ย
- Incorrect Saree Length: The length of the saree is paramount to an elegant, refined saree look. A saree that is too short can ruin the lookโs balance. However, if it is too long, it will drag on the floor. ย
- Loose Pallu Placement: The Pallu is the highlight of your saree and hence must be secured properly. A Pallu that is not secured properly will keep falling off and create an adjustment nightmare for you.
- Over Pinning or Under Pinning: A common concern while draping a saree is that it might unravel, and can lead to the use of too many pins to secure it. However, too many pins, especially on the parts of the saree that are visible, can ruin the entire look and can also damage the saree fabric. On the flip side, underpinning will not give enough support to the sareeโs silhouette.ย ย ย
Click here for in detailed guide on saree draping mistakes to avoid
Tips to Keep Nivi Style Saree Draping Comfortable All Day
- Pick the Right Petticoat: Your petticoat is the glue that holds your saree together, hence choose it with care. Skip the bulky fabrics and go for a lightweight one in cotton or satin. Ensure that it also fits snugly at the waist and falls straight for proper comfort.ย
- Pin Support: Be smart and strategically use pins to secure the pleats to the petticoat and the Pallu to the shoulder. As visible pins can affect the seamless flow of the saree, explore other options such as hidden pins, fabric tape, or magnetic safety pins.ย
- Fabric Selection: Not all fabrics are suitable for all occasions. If you are draping a saree for long hours, then go for lightweight and breathable fabrics such as cotton, silk, chiffon, georgette, and organza. These not only give you an elegant look but also ensure that you donโt compromise on comfort.ย
Draping The Nivi Style According to Different Body Types
Petite Body Types
The goal for this body type is to create height. This can be easily achieved by keeping the pleats narrow and neatly aligned. You can also drape the pallu shorter and go for a high-waisted drape to help elongate the frame.
Curvy Body Types
If you have this body type, then choose sarees that naturally highlight your curves. Medium pleats that sit flat work the best for curvy bodies. Tuck the pleats slightly off centre for maximum comfort. It is important that you avoid bulky pleats at the midsection.ย
Tall Body Types
When styling for tall body types, you should focus on adding volume and balance. While draping the saree, go for wider pleats that add structure. Layered or boxed pleats also work well. Drape the Pallu on the longer end and let it fall loose.ย
Fabulous Modern Variations of the Nivi Drape
Belted Nivi
This style involves adding a metal or embroidered belt to give structure to the Nivi silhouette. A Nivi drape style upgrade, this one looks fabulous at weddings and festivals.ย
Butterfly Style
In this variation, the pallu is pleated thinly and draped across the body. This creates a light butterfly effect that looks absolutely gorgeous. This Nivi style is suitable for lightweight fabrics such as chiffon or organza.ย
Mermaid Style
This modern figure-hugging style builds on the foundation of the Nivi drape and combines it with a mermaid tail silhouette. It is achieved by creating narrow pleats at the bottom and leaving the pallu flowing.ย
Pre-Stitched Style
This one is for the ladies who love the Nivi drape but lack the skills or time to adorn one. These sarees come completely pre-stitched with pre-made pleats and an attached pallu. You just need to slip into one like a dress, and you are good to go.ย
Check here for more Innovative Saree Draping Styles
Why the Nivi Drape Style will Never Go out of Trend
The Nivi style has been in fashion for decades, and its popularity isn’t going to fade anytime soon. The reason why this drape has garnered so much love and admiration among fashion lovers is because of its classic and adaptable design. It works with all saree fabrics from traditional cottons and silks to contemporary georgettes and chiffons. Hence, this drape can be worn for multiple occasions – from daily wear to weddings and festive occasions. It is also suitable for both simple and ornate sarees. For sarees with elaborate detailing, this style is a great way to showcase their designs. Its minimalistic elegance also ups the glamor of even the simplest of sarees.
Final Thoughts
If you are a saree lover, then you must learn the Nivi saree drape. This versatile, polished drape is a go-to for daily wear as well as special occasions. It is also very easy to master and is often seen as a standard way to drape a saree. However, if you are nervous about draping the Nivi style, donโt worry! Practicing wrapping your saree in this style will help you improve the finish. Last but not least, donโt forget to pick out the right petticoat and blouse as they are the foundation of your saree look. Use pins to secure the drape neatly. Add accessories such as jewelry, footwear, and a stylish bag to elevate the look with ease.
