Remember Aishwarya Rai’s beautiful, regal and graceful saree looks from Devdas, especially the one from the song ‘silsila ye chahat ka’? What an epitome of beauty she was and how exquisitely beautiful her drapes were. That beautiful drape she flaunted hails from the culturally rich land of Bengal. This iconic drape style is known as Atpoure. The Bengali style saree has captivated women across generations and is perfect for festivals, weddings, and even formal occasions. Do you also wish to master this royal drape style? Let’s help you out. In this article, we will guide you through the significance, and step-by-step instructions to drape a Bengali saree effortlessly.
Bengali Saree-The Atpoure Drape
The Atpoure saree is a very unique draping style. It is traditional and looks very royal. The beauty of this regal style is that it is quite easy to master. Unlike other saree drapes that require multiple pleats and pins, the Bengali style saree drape is very simple: a few broad pleats and an effortless pallu over the shoulders—pleated for a neat look or unpleated for a rough and casual one. That’s it, and you’re done. Simple, isn’t it? Glamourized by Bollywood, this style is loved by designers and fashion enthusiasts. It’s a hit for wedding photoshoots.
Why is the Bengali Saree Special?
The Bengali style saree isn’t just a beautiful drape; it is a saga of rich Bengali culture. It is also quite simple to drape and offers easy movement. You don’t have to worry about the pleats and the pallu—they are all thoughtfully taken care of in the draping style. Unlike the Nivi drape style, it doesn’t have a freely falling pallu that you have to manage while working, which is why it is perfect as an everyday saree. This drape is very practical for household chores and traditionally, Bengali women even used to tie their keyrings to their sarees.
Be it a wedding, festival, or auspicious occasion, the Atpoure-style saree can be worn everywhere. What a sight the Durga Puja festivity in Bengal is, with beautiful Bengali women clad in the Laal Paar (traditional Bengali white saree with a red border) Atpoure-style saree, offering prayers and playing sindoor khela.
The Bengali sarees are woven in Bengali textiles such as Dhakai Jamdani, Baluchari, and Tant. They are known for their intricate weaving and lightweight fabric. Because of their rich heritage, these sarees remain a popular choice among women across India and beyond. The Atpoure drape is a celebration of Bengali culture.
Step-by-Step Guide to Drape a Bengali Saree
Let’s learn how to dress in true Bengali style, all clad in an Atpoure saree.
Step 1: The Pre-requisites
Before you begin, keep the following items ready:
- A saree with a beautiful border.
- A blouse to go with the saree.
- A matching underskirt or petticoat for the base.
- Safety pins to secure your saree.
- A waistband or a saree belt. This is optional.
Step 2: Wear the Petticoat and Blouse
To start, put on your underskirt and matching blouse. Make sure the petticoat touches your ankles—that’s the perfect length. A little longer, and it might show while walking, which you definitely don’t want.
Step 3: Start Tucking the Saree
Now drape the saree around and tuck it into your petticoat, making sure that the saree is taut while tucking it in the center, just above the navel.
Step 4: Create Pleats
Take a broad section of the saree to make pleats. Unlike the Nivi drape, the Atpoure style requires broad pleats. Make 5–6 neat and broad pleats, then tuck them into your petticoat. Ensure the pleats are wide enough to cover the front part of your waist.
Step 5: Arrange the Pallu
For the pallu (the remaining portion), hold it in the front, pleat it nicely, and place it on your right shoulder. Let it fall to the back. The pallu should be quite long. Pin it to ensure it stays in place and doesn’t slip when you move.
Step 6: Giving The Final Touch to The Pallu
Bring your pallu from the back under your left arm and drape it over your left shoulder. Pin it to secure it, or let it fall loosely. To adorn it, tie a keyring to complete your Bengali look.
With a little practice, you’ll master the Atpoure-style Bengali drape!
Video Credit: An easy Bengali drape video created by Ritu Biswas. Watch the original video [here}
Where to Flaunt It?
Wear your Bengali style saree to:
- Festivals: Festivals like Durga Puja and Saraswati Puja are ideal for showcasing the Bengali saree. Women often opt for white and red sarees for these celebrations.
- Weddings: Brides and wedding guests can wear rich Bengali sarees made from silk or Baluchari fabric. These sarees often feature intricate designs that are perfect for grand occasions.
- Cultural Events: If you’re attending a cultural program or hosting a traditional event, the Bengali saree is a great choice.
Expert Tips to Master the Bengali Saree Look
Although the Bengali saree drape is simple, these tips can help you perfect your style:
- Choose the Right Fabric: Opt for lightweight fabrics such as cotton or silk for easier draping. Dhakai Jamdani and Tant sarees are excellent choices. Silk sarees offer a regal and luxurious look and are perfect for grand occasions.
- Focus on the Border: The Bengali saree drape highlights the saree’s border. Hence, choose sarees with prominent and decorative borders.
- Accessorise Wisely: Traditional jewellery, such as gold or temple jewelry, works best for the Bengali saree look. Don’t forget the red bindi and Alta designs to complete your traditional look. Add a keyring to your pallu for dramatic flair.
- Practice Makes Perfect: If you’re new to draping a saree, practice in front of a mirror. This will help you gain confidence and achieve a polished look.
Drape and Slay Like a Bengali Queen
A wedding or grand event coming up? Why not drape your saree in the Atpoure style and look as regal as a Bengali queen? We promise you’ll steal the spotlight.
