Guide to choose the right saree for various body shapes

While the saree is an epitome of Indian culture and grace, draping one well can make your body look its best. The trick is to know your body type and pick a saree that fits it perfectly. Here’s a guide to saree selection based on body shape.

Understanding the shape of your body

Before you start shopping for sarees, find out what kind of body you have. Here is a brief summary:

• Hourglass: Bust and hip measurements are almost equal with a smaller waist.
• Apple: Carries weight mostly in the abdomen.
• Pear: Upper body is less wide than the lower.
• Rectangle: Balanced figure with little waist definition.
• Inverted Triangle: Large, broad shoulders and a narrower hipline.

Saree Selection for Different Body Types

Hourglass Figure

You’re blessed with curves! Direct your attention to enhancing the waist.

• Ideal Sarees: Go for saree styles featuring a snug blouse and huge drapes to flatter an hourglass shape. Fabric such as chiffon, georgette, or silk is ideal.
• Style Tips: Opt for sarees that come with a belt with an extremely thin zari border. Even mermaid drapes would work on the curvy you.

Apple Figure

The idea is to give the impression of a waist.

• Ideal Sarees: Avoid low-waist sarees. Opt for a beautiful drape in soft fabrics that create a longer look. Choose fabrics such as cotton, crepe, and silk.
• Style Tips: Pick sarees with dark-colored borders to shift focus more towards your bottom. Avoid bulky ornamentation around the midriff.

Pear Figure

Keep your lower body balanced with the upper body.

• Ideal Sarees: Sarees with heavy embellishments or bright colors on the upper part can shift focus upwards. A net, chiffon, or georgette fabric is preferable.
• Style Tips: Choose sarees with a broad border or a contrasting pallu to create visual balance and make you appear taller.

Rectangle Figure

Think curves.

• Ideal Sarees: Opt for sarees with a fitted blouse and incorporate a perfect drape to accentuate femininity. Fabrics like silk, satin, and crepe can add curves.
• Style Tips: Wear sarees with heavy work on the blouse or pallu to appear curvier.

Inverted Triangle

Balance your broad shoulders with your lower body.

• Ideal Sarees: Opt for fabrics with minimal variations and light colors on the upper body. Chiffon, georgette, and cotton fabrics are best.
• Style Tips: Choose sarees of a darker shade with more embellishments in the frill to direct sight downwards.

Additional Tips

• Drape Style: The method you use to drape your saree can significantly adjust your appearance. Try different styles to see which suits you best.
• Blouse Design: Blouse designs are crucial for enhancing your body shape. Choose the right blouse design for your body type.
• Accessories: The right accessories can elevate your saree look. Opt for accessories and jewelry that complement your natural body shape.

Of course, these are only standard guidelines. The key is to feel confident in your saree. Try out different styles and fabrics to see what works best for you.