How to Style a Saree for winter: Tips to Stay Warm and Fashionable?

Sarees are the epitome of elegance, timelessness, and tradition. While wearing a saree is a celebration of culture and femininity, the cold winter months can make it challenging to wear one without sacrificing warmth. But don’t worry—winter and sarees can go hand in hand! With a few clever styling tips and fabric choices, you can stay cozy while looking as chic as ever. Here’s how to style a saree for winter without compromising on fashion or comfort.

 

Choose the Right Fabric for winter

The first step to styling a saree for winter is to choose the right fabric. Opt for materials that provide warmth without being too heavy. Here are some excellent choices for winter sarees:

• Woolen Sarees: Wool sarees are a fantastic winter option. The natural fibers trap heat and provide warmth without the bulk. These sarees are available in a variety of textures, from smooth woolen drapes to knitted ones, offering a blend of comfort and luxury.
• Silk and Velvet: Velvet sarees are an iconic winter fabric. The thick, plush texture of velvet keeps you warm, and the fabric's lustrous finish adds to your festive look. Similarly, rich silks like banarasi or raw silk saree are perfect for winter months as they offer a bit of weight and warmth.
• Pashmina: Pashmina wool is incredibly soft and warm, making it a great choice for winter sarees. Pashmina sarees also have a timeless appeal and can make you look elegant and cozy at the same time.
• Kashmiri Woolen Sarees: The intricate designs of Kashmiri woolen sarees, combined with the fabric’s warmth, make them an excellent winter option. These sarees often feature rich embroidery and vibrant colors that are perfect for the season.
• Cashmere: If you're looking for a luxurious winter saree, a cashmere saree is a great choice. These sarees are not only warm but are incredibly soft and comfortable to wear giving formal dress look.

 

Layer Smartly with Innerwear

Wearing a saree traditionally means layering it over a petticoat, but when winter arrives, it’s important to layer further to stay warm. The key is to keep your innerwear light but effective.

• Thermal Innerwear: Thermal leggings or long-sleeve tops can be worn underneath your saree blouse. Thin yet warm, these base layers add an extra layer of insulation without adding too much bulk under the saree.
• Full-Sleeve Blouses: During winter, a full-sleeve blouse can be both stylish and functional. A blouse with a high neck or a turtleneck is a great option to keep your neck and arms warm while still giving a chic and party wear look.
• Shapewear or Fitted Petticoats: Opt for petticoats made from thicker fabrics like cotton or wool blends. These will help keep you warm and provide structure to the saree. A snugly fitting petticoat also ensures that your saree remains in place despite winter breezes.

 

Opt for Winter-Friendly Saree Draping Styles

Certain saree draping styles are more suitable for the winter months as they provide extra coverage and warmth. These draping styles can ensure you stay comfortable without sacrificing elegance.

• Nivi Draping with a Cape: The classic Nivi drape works well for winter, but you can add a stylish twist by wearing a cape or a shawl over your saree. This will keep you warm and give a modern edge to the traditional drape. A velvet or woolen cape can add warmth while giving a sophisticated touch to your look.
• Bengali Draping Style: This style is great for adding a bit of volume and warmth around the body. The pallu is draped over the shoulder and can be tucked around the waist and brought over the shoulder for added coverage. You can also add a shawl or stole around your neck for additional warmth.
• Maharashtrian Draping Style: This draping style involves wrapping the saree tightly around the body, which can help in keeping you warm by offering more layers close to your body. The pleats are tucked neatly into a waistband, making it easier to manage in chilly weather.
• Saree with a Dupatta: This is a great option for added coverage. Draping a long, stylish dupatta over your shoulders or around your neck not only helps protect against the cold but also adds a layer of richness to your outfit.

 

Accessorize for Both Warmth and Style

Accessories are essential to complete a saree look, and in winter, they can also help you stay warm. Here are some accessory ideas for styling a saree during colder months:

• Scarves and Stoles: A silk or woolen scarf can be a lifesaver during the winter months. You can drape it over your shoulder or wrap it around your neck to keep cozy without compromising your look. Opt for scarves that match or contrast with your saree for a polished appearance.
• Statement Jackets: Layering a fashionable jacket over your saree can keep you warm and make a stylish statement. Long, tailored jackets, cardigans, or even ethnic kurtis with jackets can help balance the traditional saree with modern warmth.
• Warm Footwear: Pair your saree with ankle-length boots or stylish block heels for added warmth. Winter-friendly footwear can make all the difference in your comfort level.
• Woolen Shrugs or Ponchos: A woolen shrug or a poncho is an excellent addition to your saree ensemble. It adds a cozy layer and keeps you warm without hiding the saree’s beauty. Choose one in a neutral or contrasting color for a stylish look.

 

Layer with Outerwear

Winter calls for strategic outerwear, especially during those chilly evenings. If you’re attending a wedding or any formal occasion, a well-selected outer layer can elevate your saree look.

• Long Coats: A beautifully tailored woolen coat or trench coat adds a layer of warmth while complementing the saree’s flow. This look works particularly well with contemporary sarees or lehenga sarees.
• Knee-Length Jackets or Overcoats: If you want something more casual but still chic, a knee-length jacket or overcoat is perfect. A neutral-toned coat can balance the colors of a bright saree, while a patterned coat adds fun contrast.
• Cashmere or Woolen Shawls: For a more traditional approach, wrap yourself in a finely woven shawl. Pashmina or woolen shawls can be draped elegantly over your saree and provide a lot of warmth.

 

Select the Right Saree Blouse

When the temperatures drop, the right blouse can make all the difference in your comfort level. Choose from these winter-friendly blouse styles:

• Long-Sleeve Blouses: As mentioned earlier, a long-sleeve blouse, either in a simple cotton or thick fabric, keeps your arms covered or adds a layer of warmth without making you feel stuffy.
• Turtleneck or High-Neck Blouses: A turtleneck or high-neck blouse is a chic way to stay warm while maintaining a refined and elegant look. These are especially great when paired with luxurious fabrics like silk or velvet.
• Quilted Blouses: For a more modern, fashion-forward look, consider a quilted blouse that adds a bit of padding and warmth. This works well for both contemporary and traditional saree looks.

 

Embrace Winter Colors and Prints

Winter is a great time to experiment with deeper, richer colors and prints in your saree collection. Darker shades like maroon, plum, emerald green, navy, and charcoal are perfect for winter and give off a cozy, warm vibe. You can also go for printed sarees with motifs inspired by winter, such as florals, geometric designs, or paisleys in muted tones.

 

Conclusion

Styling a saree in winter is not only possible but can be incredibly fashionable with the right fabrics, accessories, and draping techniques. With these winter-friendly saree styling tips, you can embrace the season in comfort and elegance, whether you're heading to a wedding, a festive occasion, or a casual gathering. Choose warm fabrics, layer strategically, and accessorize thoughtfully, and you'll be the picture of warmth and style all winter long!