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How to Choose the Perfect Saree for Your Body Type: A Complete Saree Fitting Guide

Sarees are timeless, versatile, and incredibly elegant pieces of clothing. However, selecting the right saree to complement your unique body type can be daunting. With the variety of fabrics, styles, and draping techniques available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Fortunately, with a few body shape tips and styling tricks, you can find a saree that highlights your best features and makes you feel confident. This saree fitting guide will explore the best sarees for different body shapes and offer expert advice on ensuring a saree fits you correctly and accentuates the natural figure. Everybody, regardless of body type, can find the ideal saree.

Understanding Your Body Shape for the Perfect Saree

When choosing a saree, the first step is to know your body shape. Different body types require different styling techniques, and a saree that flatters one body type may not work as well for another. Body types are usually divided into the following groups to facilitate the process:

  1. Apple-Shaped (Round)
  2. Pear-Shaped
  3. Hourglass
  4. Rectangular (Straight)
  5. Petite Frame

Each shape has its own set of guidelines for choosing flattering sarees. Let’s see the details for each.

Body Shape Tips for Choosing the Right Saree

Sarees for Apple-Shaped Bodies

    An apple-shaped body typically features broader shoulders, a fuller bust, and a narrower waistline. The key to styling a saree for this body shape is to create balance by drawing attention away from the upper body and emphasising the lower body.

    Flattering Sarees for Apple-Shaped Bodies:

    • A-line Saree: An A-line saree has a gentle flare that adds volume to the lower half, helping balance a broad upper body.
    • Straight-Cut Saree: A straight-cut saree with minimal pleating at the waist helps elongate the figure and gives a sleek, balanced look.
    • Dark-coloured fabrics: Opt for darker shades for the blouse and petticoat, which can help slim down the upper body.
    • V-Neck Blouses: This blouse helps elongate the neck and draw attention downward, balancing the proportions.

    Styling Tricks:

    • Pair the saree with a well-fitted blouse that offers structured support to the bust.
    • Avoid too many pleats near the waist; this will keep the attention from shifting upwards.

    Sarees for Pear-Shaped Bodies

      If your body is pear-shaped, your lower body will be wider than your upper body, with fuller hips and thighs. The goal is to draw attention to your upper body while elongating your lower body to create an hourglass shape.

      Flattering Sarees for Pear-Shaped Bodies:

      • Flared or Fishtail Sarees: A flared or fishtail saree hugs the body from the waist down and gently flares out, emphasising your curves while creating a balanced silhouette.
      • Georgette or Chiffon Sarees: These fabrics drape well and create a flattering, soft look on the lower body, preventing bulkiness.
      • Embellishments on the Upper Body: Choose sarees with intricate work, such as embroidery or sequins, on the blouse or upper half, drawing attention upwards.

      Styling Tricks:

      • Go for a fitted blouse that creates a defined waistline.
      • Use an off-shoulder or boatneck blouse to shift focus to your shoulders and collarbones.
      • Avoid heavy pleating on the hips; it adds unnecessary volume to the lower body.

      Sarees for Hourglass Figures

        The hourglass figure is well proportioned, with a defined waist, balanced bust, and hips. If you have this body shape, the goal is to highlight your curves while ensuring the saree fits comfortably and beautifully.

        Flattering Sarees for Hourglass Figures:

        • Mermaid or Fishtail Sarees: These are perfect for accentuating curves. They hug your body from the waist down and flare at the knees, creating a stunning silhouette.
        • Traditional Saree Draping Styles: Go for classic draping styles like the Nivi drape to enhance your natural curves.
        • Heavy Border Sarees: Sarees with thick borders can highlight your figure, especially if draped to show off your curves.

        Styling Tricks:

        • A well-fitted blouse with a sweetheart neckline or deep V-neck is ideal to show off your balanced figure.
        • Consider a pleated saree with a simple, flowing blouse if you require a relaxed drape.

        Sarees for Rectangular Body Shapes

          A rectangular body shape features shoulders, bust, and hips approximately the same width, with minimal curves. The goal of a body with a rectangular shape is to create the illusion of curves and add dimension to the body.

          Flattering sarees for rectangular bodies:

          • Ruffled Sarees: Ruffles add texture and volume to the saree, helping create curves.
          • Sarees with Pleats and Layers: Layered sarees or those with pleats at the waist will give the illusion of a more defined waistline and hips.
          • Sarees with Intricate Details: The decorative elements, such as lace, sequins, or embroidered borders in the saree, add more shape to your figure.

          Styling Tricks:

          • A high neckline or statement sleeves in the blouse will help balance the lack of curves and add volume to the upper body.
          • Use draping techniques that cinch the saree around the waist to create more definition.

          Sarees for Petite Frames

            Petite women often struggle with sarees because they look overwhelmed by the fabric. The key to making a saree work for a petite frame is to focus on proportions, lightweight fabrics, and streamlined draping techniques.

            Flattering Sarees for Petite Frame Sarees:

            • Lightweight Fabrics: Chiffon, georgette, and crepe are light and flowy, making them ideal for petite frames.
            • Minimalistic Sarees: Avoid heavy embroidery and excessive embellishments that can make you appear shorter. Instead, choose simple, understated designs.
            • Small Prints or Single-Hue Sarees: Sarees with small and delicate prints or solid colours are perfect for achieving an elegant look. On the other hand, large prints can often overwhelm a small frame. Therefore, opting for subtle patterns or solid hues ensures a more balanced and sophisticated appearance.

            Styling Tricks:

            • Opt for a fitted blouse with a higher waistline to elongate your figure.
            • Choose sarees with thin, subtle borders to avoid adding bulk.
            • A high-waisted drape can also help elongate your torso and make your legs appear longer.

            Saree Fitting Guide: General Tips for Every Body Type

            Fabric Selection

            Fabric plays a crucial role in how the saree drapes on your body. For example:

            • Silk: Silk are ideal for formal occasions but may add bulk if draped improperly.
            • Chiffon/Georgette: These lightweight fabrics are ideal for an elegant, fluid look and work well on almost all body types.
            • Cotton: Cotton are best for daily wear and summer but may be stiff and not as flattering for curvier figures.

            Draping Techniques

            The drape of your saree can make a huge difference in how it looks. Experiment with different draping styles to find one that enhances your body type. For example:

            • Nivi Drape: The most common saree drape, which is elegant and timeless.
            • Bengali Drape: Great for women with a fuller lower body, as it creates a smoother silhouette.
            • Maharashtrian Drape: Known for its simplicity and sharp pleats, this drape gives a slimming effect.

            Colour and Print Choices

            • Solid Colours: Slimming and elegant solid colours are always a safe bet.
            • Horizontal Stripes: These can widen your figure, so avoid them if you want a slimming effect.
            • Vertical Stripes: Ideal for elongating the body and creating a taller appearance.

            Conclusion about this saree fitting guide

            Choosing the right saree can make a world of difference to your overall look, helping you feel confident and graceful. By understanding your body type and applying simple saree fitting guidelines, you can easily find a saree that flatters your shape. Remember to consider the fabric, draping style, and blouse design to achieve the perfect balance. Whether you have a petite frame or a curvy body, there is a saree out there that will make you shine.

            By following this saree fitting guide, you’ll have all the knowledge you need to choose flattering sarees, master body shape tips, and implement styling tricks that work best for your body type. Happy saree shopping!

            Also read our blog The Ultimate Guide to Regional Saree Types in India.