How to Wrap or Tie a Sari - Illustrated Guide

Step One

First make sure you are wearing a close fitted shirt that goes well with your sari underneath. Most women wear a type of petticoat as well, but I think its possible to go without--especially if you want the cool breeziness a sari can offer. If you do go without a petticoat, make sure you're wearing shorts or underwear with a very strong band because you'll be tucking the sari into this.

Step Two

Tuck the upper edge of the sari into your waistband a bit to the right of your belly button. The bottom should be right at the floor, and if your sari has one decorated side and one plain side, make sure the decorated side is by your feet. Wrap the sari once around yourself, bringing it up and around on your right side.

Step Three

Now begin making 5 to 7 pleats of about 4 or 5 inches, starting at the tucked in side. The first pleat should fall down the center of your body. Line each pleat up in front of one another, making sure they are all even, and adjust it with the bottom edge of your first wrap. Tuck the pleats securely into your waistband, and you can use a safety pin if necessary to keep them in place.

Step Four

Bring the rest of the fabric around yourself again, bringing it up under your right armpit and over your left shoulder.You can pleat it a few times, leaving some fabric to hang a bit over your arm and pinning the pleats in place.

Voila, a traditional Nivi drape!