Swap the usual skirt for a pair of fitted pants or leggings and drape the saree over them. This gives you a sleek fusion silhouette with none of the tucking or fidgeting. Pant-style drapes are a "modern and edgy take" on the saree – perfect if you want comfort (you can walk and dance freely) without sacrificing glam.

Lightweight fabrics like chiffon or georgette work great here, and you can pleat the pallu normally or even belt it for extra style.

This style fools the eye into thinking you're wearing a lehenga-choli instead of a saree. Pleat and wrap the saree around your lower body so it resembles a flared skirt, then drape the pallu over your shoulder. The result is feminine and festive – a lehenga flair with all the elegance of a saree.

It's especially popular for big events (like weddings or Diwali parties) because it feels both ornate and easy to move in. Choose a flowing chiffon or soft silk for the pleats so the "skirt" flares out without bulk.

Inspired by the traditional men's dhoti, this drape tucks the saree's pleats between your legs for a modern, action-ready look. It's favored by younger women because it blends heritage with a contemporary twist.

You simply take thin pleats of the saree, bring them between your legs, and tuck them at the back, then drape the pallu over the shoulder. The silhouette is sleek yet bold – great for dancing through Diwali night!

For structure and style, add a belt over your drape. Cinching the waist with a pretty belt or chain keeps the saree in place and highlights your figure. The belt could go around the waist over the pallu or at hip level over the plain part of the saree.

Many modern fashionistas do this – it "adds structure and style" to the traditional drape. Use a metal or embellished belt that's snug enough to hold the fabric. This works beautifully with soft sarees (like chiffon or georgette) and even heavier silks.

Layer on a lightweight jacket, cape, or long shrug over your saree for instant sophistication. Drape your saree in the usual way (or any modern style you like), then slip on a fitted jacket or cape. This fusion instantly upgrades the outfit – think of a coordinated suit.

A lightly embroidered long jacket over a plain saree is a trending look for formal events. You can even pin the saree pallu to the jacket's back for a seamless flow. This style is both elegant and current – perfect if you want warmth or structure with your Diwali outfit.

Want a drama? Layer two sarees (or one extra-long one) on top of each other. For example, drape one saree normally, then take a second lighter or contrasting saree and pleat it over the shoulder again. You'll get an elaborate, eye-catching ensemble that's perfect for a big wedding or Diwali function.

Think bold and voluminous: the extra layer can add volume to the pallu or skirt.

This glamorous drape is inspired by Bollywood starlets. In the butterfly style, the pallu is pleated extremely thinly and pinned tightly across the chest so it spreads out at the shoulder like delicate wings.

The overall effect flatters your curves with a hint of old-Hollywood charm. A lightweight saree (chiffon or georgette) works best so those "wings" fan out nicely.

The mermaid saree drape is all about a figure-hugging silhouette. You tuck the saree tightly around your waist and hips (like a fishtail), so the skirt flares out only at the hem, resembling a mermaid's tail.

The pallu comes over the shoulder as usual. This drape is glamorous and sleek – it accentuates your curves while giving you a defined, dramatic shape. Choose a smooth, glossy fabric (tanchoi silk or crepe) that clings well.

For a runway-ready twist, add a cape. In this style, drape the saree normally, then wear a matching cape, shrug or capelet over your shoulders. You can pin the pallu to the back of the cape for a seamless flow.

This fusion of saree and cape/cardigan is regal and modern at once – it's become popular in bridal fashion and designer collections.

A traditional favorite with a rich history, the Bengali drape is perfect for festivals. Wrap the saree around your waist, then bring the pallu over your right shoulder and loop it back over your left shoulder.

(Bonus: Bengal brides often tuck small keys at the end of the pallu as jewelry.) The look is graceful and slightly different from the usual Nivi style, giving your Diwali outfit a classic eastern charm. It's often done in silk or cotton – try a white-and-red border saree for that authentic Bengali vibe.