There's a new twist that's taking over Bollywood's festive saree playbook-experimental saree draping. Gone are the days of the single, straight pallu; today's stars are proving that every pleat and fold can tell its own fashion story.
From Sonam Kapoor's structural drape to Alia Bhatt's breezy silhouettes and Shilpa Shetty's sculpted sarees, each look brings a new way to reinvent tradition with style. Whether you're a minimalist or a maximalist, these celebrity-approved drapes are all the inspiration you need to make your six yards stand out this season.
Sonam has made saree styling an art. Her cocktail-night-perfect short skirt-style saree with a low-looped pallu is playful, fluid, and so fashion-forward. In the next look, she ditched traditional folds for a short front pleat that structures the outfit with a tailored edge. And that waist-pallu drape? It frames the midriff so elegantly, giving the saree a regal yet so-contemporary finish.
Instagram: @sonamkapoor
Comfort melds with chic for Alia. Her pink dhoti drape saree gives a new, trendy avatar to the traditional silhouette, making it flowy, easy to move around in, and perfect for the mehendi or haldi functions. On another occasion, her open front pallu had a softer, more refined vibe to it-perfect for day events or destination weddings.
Instagram: @aliaabhatt
If there's one celebrity who has mastered the art of dramatic draping, it is Shilpa. Adding structure and glamour to her belted saree drape results in a cinched silhouette that flatters every curve. Whether paired with sequins or silk, her belted twist makes the saree into a power look fit for sangeets or evening galas.
Instagram: @theshilpashetty
Bhumi's hip-accentuating drape with a skinny front pallu celebrates curves with unapologetic confidence. It's bold, sensual, and ideal for a red-carpet-worthy wedding look.
Instagram: @bhumisatishpednekkar
For those who love drama done delicately, Nimrat's butterfly drape is the one to steal. The pallu spreads out like soft wings, lending the saree a romantic, feminine charm ideal for receptions or formal events.
Instagram: @stylebyami
Mira loops the pallu across her waist and around her arm, giving the saree a fresh, offbeat twist. Understated yet inventive, this is the kind of drape that works for someone who wants to keep it simple yet striking.
Instagram: @tanghavri
From Sonam's experimental elegance to Shilpa's structured silhouettes, Bollywood's leading ladies are reworking the saree rulebook. Each drape - belted, looped, or layered - presents a new way to wear the timeless six yards. So this wedding season, skip the usual folds and make your saree a conversation starter. After all, it is not about what you wear but the way you drape it.
