- By Ridam Sharma
- Tue, 23 Jun 2026 01:00 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Saree Pleating Secrets: Even the most basic saree drapes become showstoppers with neatly pleated sarees. However, getting perfectly folded pleats is not easy. Stylists have their favourite little tips and tricks which help create neat pleats, including setting the pallu to how to drape a saree professionally, and everything in between. No matter what occasion you are wearing a beautiful Indian saree, a wedding, office or casual outing, the following tips for pleating your saree will definitely come in handy.
7 Saree Pleating Secrets For A Neat Look:
Here is a list of seven saree pleating secrets stylists swear by for a neat look.
1. Heels First And Then Drape
One of the simplest secrets about styling is to put on the heels before draping the saree. This will ensure that you know how long the saree should be and will help you avoid the awkwardness of an irregular hemline. Also, it makes sure that your pleats will always stay neat.
2. Pin Mindfully
Safety pins will hold the saree for you, yet using too many of them will give you bulkiness. Only fasten those parts of the saree which require fastening – pallu and waist pleats, that is all. Proper placement of pins will help you preserve the flow of the saree at the same time.
Rashmika Mandanna In Saree (Image Credit: Instagram @rashmika_mandanna)
3. Set Pallu First And Then Pleats
Stylists advise putting the pallu before making the front pleats. Thus, you will be able to know exactly how much fabric is left when you set the pallu. This way of draping the saree gives balanced pleats and avoids any lack of fabric.
4. Carefully Iron Pleats After Wearing A Saree
For those who want to have neat and structured pleats, you can iron them after draping on very low heat, if the material allows. Ironing helps remove the wrinkles created when wearing the saree. The temperature settings have to be appropriate for the saree material, and make sure you don’t end up burning yourself.
Rashmika Mandanna’s Ombre Saree (Image Credit: Instagram @rashmika_mandanna)
5. Opt For A Well-Fitted Peticoat
An appropriately sized petticoat is what forms the base of a properly draped saree. Any petticoat that does not fit will cause the saree to crumple or sag. Ensuring an appropriately sized petticoat ensures proper support, neat pleats, and a flattering appearance overall.
Keerthy Suresh In Green And Red Drape (Image Credit: Instagram @keerthysureshofficial)
ALSO READ: 5 Blouse Back Designs For Cotton Sarees That Never Go Out Of Style
6. Double-Sided Tape To The Rescue
Double-sided fashion tape comes in handy when working on slippery pallus or moving necklines. Using this technique ensures the saree is secure and there are no visible pins. This easy trick is very effective when wearing thin fabrics for long durations of time.
Priya Prakash Varrier In White Gotta Saree (Image Credit: Instagram @priya.p.varrier)
ALSO READ: 7 Khadi Saree Designs For A Cool Summer Vibe And Effortless Elegance
7. A Blouse Can Make Or Break The Saree Look
The best-draped saree can also look average when paired with ill-fitting blouses. The blouse will ensure proper structuring of the saree as well as improve one's posture. The blouse makes your saree look more fashionable and elegant. Also, give extra attention to the neckline. Opt for a neckline that flatters your saree look.
Anupama Parameswaran In White Golden Saree (Image Credit: Instagram @anupamaparameswaran96)
Pleating a saree is all about precision, choosing the right type of material, doing the right folds, tucking them slightly in the right places, and holding them together in an easy manner. If you want to get perfectly folded pleats with minimal effort, try out the following seven tips that will help you to achieve this result. Remember, the more experience you have at draping a saree, the easier it becomes to maintain your pleats all day long.
