Even though this an overused cliché, it is nevertheless still true. Each body is unique and beautiful.We need to be grateful for the body that houses our soul, regardless of its shape, size or proportions. No matter what you think you look like, the best accessory, really, is confidence. Sorry but some clichés are true.
Having said that, these styling tips are for those of you who wish to streamline your look. If you choose to appear slimmer or would like to tweak your proportions, then go ahead and adapt the ideas to suit you. On the other hand, you could also ignore all these principles listed and still be happy with the outcome. Either way more power to you.
The Right Fabric Makes All The Difference
Try to find fabrics that have both a fluid drape and translucence. Try and avoid very sheer fabrics because it tends to highlight every bump and jiggle. On the other hand, if the fabric is too stiff it will add bulk to your frame. Rule of thumb is that if the saree can stand on its own without you in it, you probably don’t need to be in it. Look for medium weight fabrics that allow a little light to pass through. It should be light but not too sheer. My favorite is a crepe silk or a heavier crepe Georgette. I would avoid raw silk, south silk, starched cottons, extremely sheer chiffons (although you can wear this with a longer blouse).
The Illusion of Colors
The easiest choice is a monochromatic look. A plain saree and blouse in the same color worn with nice jewelry and subtle makeup is an effortless and classic look. For this look any color in the palette works, dark or light. Pick something that goes with your skin tone and makes you feel fabulous. Think Rekha in Silsila. Her sarees are just as relevant and gorgeous today as they were in 1981.
For prints, avoid the oversized prints they add volume. Look for medium or smaller sized prints that are more pleasing to the eye. Try staying with motifs that are around two inches in width. Don’t restrict yourself with the type of print – Geometric, floral or abstract. Find what makes you happy.
The Goddess Drape
The key to a good saree look is a drape that is flattering. For curvy women, the Nivi drape works very well. You can experiment with other drapes as well but this hugs the body in all the right areas. Ideally, the saree should sit tight around the hips, with soft few pleats that are not bulky. Cover the areas around the midriff that are tricky. Use pins strategically to maintain the drape. Secure areas like behind the pleats to keep the hip shape, along the length of the pleats and on the pallu. While tucking in the pleats at the waist don’t tuck in too much, avoid creating a bulk. Also, start your drape with wearing the right footwear, something you will be actually wearing with the saree. The length of the final drape needs to be just right – skimming the floor gently. It should not be droopy enough to be underfoot nor short enough to show the feet.
The Right Foundation Garments
The foundation is always key to a good outcome. Wear the correct undergarments and its half the battle won. The most important item here is the sari skirt. Pick one that fits you correctly on the wait and is not loose around the hips. It should be a medium weight one that hold everything in place. You could also consider wearing shape-wear shorts underneath your skirt. This will smooth out all the bumps and give you a cleaner silhouette. Buy one that is low waist and heavier in fabric but not too tight. You want to also enjoy your time out in the sari. If you can’t buy shape-wear, you can also buy opaque pantyhose and cut the length to what you need. You will have to hem the edges to make sure they don’t roll up while wearing it. This works if you buy the correct size of pantyhose. If its too small it will ride up and if its too big it wont do the job well.
The Saree Blouse
A lot can be done with the right saree blouse. Keep the overall length to a place you are comfortable at. If you’re wearing a sheer sari, go for a long blouse. The common advice tends towards wearing three quarter sleeves but I find it looks unflattering on plus size women. If anything, it makes the look matronly and adds to the bulk. If you’re not confident of your arms, keep the sleeves to just at the elbow. It covers enough of the arm without adding bulk. Keep the neck open and the styling simple fuss free. A reasonable deep back can also look great without having to wear backless cholis.