Saree for Men: A Bold & Beautiful Move Beyond Gender

Saree for men: Draping the Gender Divide

Long associated with feminine grace and beauty, sarees were never just the woman’s garment. Diving deeper into India’s rich ancient history unravels the history of men and sarees. This unstitched cloth was never bound by gender. Long forgotten the saree for men is reclaiming its place in men’s wardrobes once again. Not just as a costume but also as a statement of identity, artistry, and freedom. From cultural revival to high fashion, men in sarees are confidently rewriting the rules of style. It’s hot and trending!!

A Historical Lens: Men Were Always Draped

Long before the British colonisers introduced trousers and coats, the Indian subcontinent celebrated unstitched, breathable clothing for all genders.

• Ancient India:
  Kings, priests, and commoners wore draped clothing in temples and courts. The dhoti, veshti, angavastram, and even saree-like styles were seen on sculptures and frescoes dating back to the Maurya and Gupta periods.
• Tribal and Folk Cultures:
  Communities in Odisha, Jharkhand, and Assam never strictly divided draping styles by gender. The practice of wrapping long cloths around the body was natural and shared.
• Performing Arts:
  Classical dance forms like Kathakali and Bharatanatyam feature male performers in draped saree-style attire, using the fabric to enhance grace and expression.

So, the saree for men isn’t new. It’s a rediscovery.

Saree For Men: Why So Popular?

Fashion is cyclical—and also radical. Here’s why more men are embracing the saree now than ever before:

1. Return to Cultural Roots:
   A growing pride in Indian textiles and traditions has led many to question colonial legacies in clothing.
2. Breaking Gender Norms:
   In today’s world, clothing is becoming a tool of self-expression beyond gender binaries.
3. Influence of Designers & Influencers:
   Brands like Sabyasachi, Raw Mango, Bobo Calcutta, and NorBlack NorWhite feature men in sarees. This inspires mainstream acceptance. Influencers like Siddhartha Batra, Rohit Bose and Pushpak Sen are slaying their saree avataars.
4. Comfort & Climate:
   Unstitched cloth like sarees or lungis are actually better suited to India’s climate. They are cool, breathable, and free-flowing which is why the ancient Indian men used to wear dhotis and not trousers.
5. A Bold Fashion Statement that Radiates Confidence
   Nothing says bold like a man in a saree who walks tall. The versatile saree, when styled well, is both powerful and masculine.

How To Style the Saree For Men: Own Your Saree Look!

There’s no single way to wear a saree. Whether you opt for a traditional drape or something really modern and bold, there’s a style for every occasion.

1. The Dhoti-The Saree For Men Fusion Drape

• Best For: Traditional events, weddings, classical performances.
• Style Tip: Start draping like a dhoti and let the pallu fall across the shoulder or wrap like a stole.
• Pair With: Short kurta, antique jewellery and kolhapuri chappals.

2. The Belted Contemporary Saree For men

• Best For: Photoshoots, fashion events, modern functions.
• Style Tip: Pleat the saree tightly and wear a belt around the waist for structure..
• Pair With: Shirtless torso or tank top, boots or sneakers, layered chains. For a traditional look you can go for a kurta, statement jewellery and kolhapuri chappals.

3. Saree With Blazer

• Best For: Semi-formal gatherings, gallery openings.
• Style Tip: Choose a neutral-toned saree and tuck it neatly under a structured blazer.
• Pair With: Oxford shoes, sunglasses, lapel pin. Style with a sling bag or handbag.

4. The Minimalist Saree For Men

• Best For: Daywear, cultural travel, personal events.
• Style Tip: Use soft handloom or linen sarees, keep it simple with pleats and a loose pallu
• Pair With: Linen/ satin shirt, cotton kurta, juttis

Saree Drape Ideas Beyond the Nivi

Forget the common Nivi style. Men are exploring lesser-known regional drapes like:

• Classic Dhoti Drape
• Veshti / Mundu Drape
• Bengali Dhuti Drape
• Maharashtrian Dhoti (Panche)
• Angavastram Drape
• Lungi Drape
• Modern Saree Drape
• Dupatta / Stole Drape
• Gujarati Angarkha Drape
• Bohemian Fusion Drape Styles

These traditional drapes adapt beautifully to the masculine drape styles and can be styled with effortlessly.

Accessories To Amp Up the Look

No saree look is complete without the right accessories. Here’s what works well with men’s saree styling:

• Belt: Adds shape and flair while cinching the waist.
• Statement Neckpieces: Temple jewelry, layered beads, or tribal pendants to perk up the look.
• Earrings or Studs: A single hoop or bold earcuff to add a hint of glamour.
• Bracelets/Kadas: Add weight and masculinity
• Bags & Slings: A smart leather satchel or cloth jhola to finish the look.

Fabric Choices for Men’s Sarees

Choosing the right fabric can make all the difference. Here’s a quick guide:

Celebrities Who’ve Rocked the Saree

• Ayushmann Khurrana: Draped a saree for a magazine cover and wore it like a boss.
• Ranveer Singh: Known for genderless fashion, has worn saree-like silhouettes on red carpets.
• Bibhu Mohapatra: Introduced androgynous drapes on global runways.
• Indian Drag Queens & Queer Icons: Like Maya The Drag Queen, Patruni Sastry, and Alex Mathew have normalized sarees in queer and performing arts circles.

These men are not just embracing the saree, they are inspiring a movement.

Where to Buy Sarees for Men

Men can wear any saree. But if you want curated options, try:

• Unisex and Gender-Fluid Brands:
  • Bobo Calcutta
  • NorBlack NorWhite
  • Huemn
• Handloom & Ethical Fashion Stores:
  • Fabindia
  • Okhai
  • Jaypore
  • Taneira
• Online Stores Offering Custom Drape Styles:
  • Etsy
  • Instagram thrift pages
  • Designer Boutiques (Ujjawal Dubey, Rimzim Dadu, Anamika Khanna)

Facing Society: Drape With Confidence

Yes, you may receive stares or questions. But remember, you are part of a cultural revolution. Here are a few tips:

• Start Small: Try draping at home or for a themed event.
• Find Supportive Circles: Fashion, queer, and artistic communities are encouraging spaces.
• Educate: If someone asks, share the cultural context.
• Stay Proud: You’re representing freedom, heritage, and creativity, with just one power move.

Saree as an Extension of Self: Drape It Proudly!

Saree for men is a story of long forgotten ancient culture, heritage, fashion and tradition proudly narrated through outfits. Worn by men, the drape becomes a unique statement. It speaks of reclaiming identity, breaking barriers, and honouring heritage. Whether you drape one to celebrate your ancient roots or to define your style, know this: your drape is your power, flaunt it proudly.