How to Wear a Saree with a Dupatta: A Styling Guide Inspired by Indian Cinema Icons

Adding a dupatta to your saree ensemble elevates it to a royal, layered look that can make a striking fashion statement. This combination has been embraced by leading ladies of Indian cinema, blending tradition with contemporary flair. In this blog, we’ll explore how to style a saree with a dupatta, focusing on Benarasi sarees — the epitome of elegance and luxury.

Why Choose a Benarasi Saree with a Dupatta?

Benarasi sarees, woven with intricate patterns and metallic threads, exude sophistication. Adding a dupatta enhances the richness of the outfit, making it perfect for weddings, festive occasions, or formal events. Opt for a complementary or contrasting dupatta to highlight the saree's beauty while adding depth to your look.

Styling Inspirations from Indian Cinema

1. Deepika Padukone’s Regal Layering

Deepika Padukone, known for her love of traditional attire, often pairs sarees with dupattas for a majestic vibe. In movies like Padmaavat, her draped dupattas reflected regal elegance. To recreate this look:

• Style Tip: Drape the saree traditionally and layer the dupatta over your shoulders, letting it cascade down your arms.
• Pro Tip: Choose a zari-bordered dupatta to match the grandeur of your Benarasi saree.

2. Rekha’s Timeless Glamour

Bollywood icon Rekha is synonymous with opulent Kanjeevaram sarees and layered ensembles. Her look is perfect for Benarasi sarees with dupattas.

• Style Tip: Pin the dupatta across one shoulder as a pallu extension and let it fall gracefully at the back.
• Pro Tip: Gold jewelry and a sleek bun complete this classic ensemble.

3. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan’s Minimalist Chic

In Devdas, Aishwarya Rai’s saree and dupatta combinations were understated yet impactful.

• Style Tip: Use the dupatta as a shawl, wrapping it around your arms or loosely pinning it at the front.
• Pro Tip: Opt for pastel shades or light embroidery for a more modern aesthetic.

How to Perfectly Drape a Saree with a Dupatta

Step 1: Choose the Right Dupatta

• Contrasting Colors: For a bold statement, pair a vibrant dupatta with a neutral saree or vice versa.
• Matching Embroidery: If your saree has intricate zari work, pick a dupatta with a complementary pattern.

Step 2: Pin Strategically

• Secure the Saree: Ensure your saree pleats are neatly pinned for a solid base.
• Layer the Dupatta: Place the dupatta diagonally across your torso or over one shoulder for an elegant touch. Use pins to hold it in place without looking rigid.

Step 3: Accessorize Smartly

• Jewelry: Go for statement necklaces or earrings, depending on the neckline and drape style.
• Footwear: Stick to traditional juttis or embellished heels to maintain the regal vibe.

Conclusion

Pairing a saree with a dupatta is more than just a trend — it’s a way to celebrate heritage while embracing contemporary fashion. Whether you’re inspired by Deepika’s regal style or Rekha’s classic glamour, a Benarasi saree with a dupatta guarantees you’ll stand out at any event.

Let us know your favorite saree-dupatta pairing tips or share your Bollywood-inspired looks in the comments below!