Stylish Ways to Wear a White Saree with Red Border - Taneira

The iconic red and white saree is a staple in many cultures across India, with a special place in West Bengal. Often made of Cotton or Silk fabrics, this saree is widely worn during festivals, weddings, rituals and other such cultural events. The white represents purity and grace, while the vibrant red border symbolises auspiciousness. What’s more, the intricate detailing on the border, be it handwoven designs, zari or embroidery, adds a regal touch to these gorgeous sarees.

While the white and red saree is popularized in the traditional Bengali style drape, it is celebrated and styled in other regions of India in many unique ways. The saree is rooted in tradition but at the same time, offers countless opportunities for modern styling as well. No matter the occasion, the contemporary draping techniques and modern blouse styles paired with this saree can make you look effortlessly stylish while being rooted in tradition.

If you’d like to get draped in tradition while simultaneously embracing modernity, we have you covered. At Taneira, the classic white saree with a red border is not only a symbol of timeless elegance but also a versatile choice for today’s women, courtesy of the many innovative draping techniques. Let’s take a look at some of them:

1. Try a Criss-cross Pallu: Here’s a unique draping technique for a truly modern and edgy look. Begin by draping the saree as usual, with neat pleats for the lower half. When it comes to the pallu, take it around your left arm, then wrap it around your right arm, creating an elegant, layered effect across both arms. This is a beautiful way to highlight the red border with a V-design in front. To finish the look, add a sleek brown belt around your waist to give the saree a structured and contemporary feel.

   Accessorizing Tips: A gold choker necklace is the perfect finishing touch to accentuate your look. It not only complements the neckline but also aligns perfectly with the structured look that the belt creates.

2. Add a Jacket or Cape: This is one of the most popular ways to blend traditional elegance with contemporary flair. Start with draping the white and red saree in all its glory, highlighting the striking borders. Choose a jacket that complements the saree’s colour and fabric. For instance, a contemporary gold jacket would look stunning with the traditional colours of the saree. Alternatively, a jacket in a contrasting colour and embellishments is sure to add a playful touch.

   Accessorizing Tips: Skip the necklace as the jacket is the highlight of this look. Instead, try huge chandbalis or hoops with this modern saree draping style. Don’t forget to carry an embellished clutch to complete the look.



3. Explore a Gown-style Drape: Experiment with draping the saree in a lehenga or gown style. For this, wrap the saree around your waist and let the pallu flow over your shoulder like a trail. You can either choose to make neat pleats with the pallu at the back or let it flow, depending on your personal preference. This draping style creates the illusion of a skirt while maintaining the essence of a saree. Pair this saree with a crop top, just like how you would style a lehenga.

   Accessorizing Tips: Pair your gown-style saree with a bold statement necklace and minimal diamond studs for a modern touch. Opt for heels in metallic tones like gold or silver.

4. Flaunt a Peplum-style Blouse: Trying out offbeat blouse styles is also a great modern styling technique for a white saree with a red border. Instead of wearing a traditional blouse with your saree, experiment with a peplum-style blouse that is flared at the waist. The glamorous silhouette of the blouse will add a contemporary twist to your ensemble. You can either drape the saree in the classic Nivi style or explore a front pallu drape but ensure that the blouse silhouette is highlighted.

   Accessorizing Tips: Pair it with antique jewellery that has an old-world charm but at the same time, looks trendy. A bangle stack is a fantastic way to add a touch of glamour to your look too.



5. Wear a Collared Shirt: Pairing your saree with a crisp white collared and buttoned shirt is yet another brilliant idea for fashion-conscious women. This combination creates a chic yet sophisticated look that is perfect for many different occasions. Be it a Diwali party that you’re headed to, a wedding sangeet or a fun family gathering, this draping style is sure to make heads turn. Drape the saree in front pallu style, with the pallu neatly pleated, to highlight the red border of your saree.

   Accessorizing Tips: We recommend oxidised jewellery with this saree draping style. A statement oxidized necklace will look stunning as it rests on the collared white shirt and the red borders of the saree. A silver-coloured cocktail ring will also go well with the look.

While these are just a few creative ideas to take your saree styling game up a notch, there are many other techniques that you can try out with your cherished sarees. These modern styling techniques don’t just breathe a new life into your traditional sarees but also offer a new and fresh perspective on ethnic wear.

At Taneira, we love experimenting with sarees and draping styles, offering a curated selection of the finest sarees to suit your taste. Our collection features a range of fabrics, patterns and designs when it comes to white and red sarees. Shop for a saree you’d love to adorn at Taneira and we promise you’ll keep coming back for more.