Women of different nationalities and cultures have adopted Western wear. No doubt, it is also true for Indian women. However, a woman's saree naturally evokes a message that she is of Indian origin. So, despite the popularity of Western dresses, sarees have not lost their value to Indians. But, you can notice an evolution of saree styles and designs.

Wearing a saree in the ancient age

5,000 years ago, ancient women used to drape their bodies with an unstitched, rectangular piece. This garment was popular during Indus Valley Civilisation. The term 'saree' has a Sanskrit origin and means a strip of cloth.

The way to drape a saree was different for all women depending on their classes and regions. Women of higher classes wore garments to cover the upper and lower parts of their bodies. They also adorned the upper parts with shawls and breast bands. On the other hand, courtesans and lower-class women remained bare-breasted.

Saree trends during Muslim and British rules

When Muslims reigned India, many Hindu women wore Persian-style clothes and costumes. A long top and a pair of loose pants were also popular during that period. With these costumes, women used to wear a sari-derived scarf. 

Again, with the beginning of British rule, women transformed the style of wearing sarees. British rulers disapproved of the saree style and did not allow finer fabrics. To prevent this problem, women started wearing petticoats under sarees. Wearing a blouse with a saree became a standard style at that time. Although the British posed a lot of challenges, the custom of wearing a saree retained its position.

Early trends of adapting saree

Most India women of around 16 to 18 years of age during and after the British rule used to wear a saree regularly. In some regions of the country, young women wore Indian-style long skirts. It is believed that the saree is a highly modest costume. Both rural and urban women have adopted this garment.

One major aspect of draping saree has remained intact over the years. Women of both modern and ancient ages tuck the saree in pleats. Pleats are highly essential to tuck in the piece of cloth at the waist.

Sarees in the contemporary age and the draping styles

• Indian women of various cultures wear sarees in different ways. You can also find diversity in saree designs and patterns.

• Gujarati sarees have a vibrant and spectacular look. Most Gujarati women prefer a front pallu style while draping their sarees.

• Nauvari refers to the Maharashtrian saree draping techniques. The length of a traditional saree in Maharashtra is 8 metres, while a regular saree length is about 5.5 to 6 metres. Women like to wear this saree at festivals.

• Bengali women love various draping styles while wearing sarees.

• South Indians prefer the Nivi style and use safety pins for draping sarees.

• Bandhani and Lehariya sarees are popular in Rajasthan. Kota silk saree in Rajasthan is made of delicate fabric.

So, sarees will never get outdated in the fashion world. But you may find new patterns, designs, and draping styles for sarees.