The saree, an eternal favorite among Indian clothing, boasts an unwavering appeal that transcends borders. Its popularity spans India and the Asian Sub-Continent, and its influence has even extended to Western countries. For many Indian women, the saree is a staple piece in their wardrobe, with each having their own unique style and way of wearing it. However, for short-height girls, finding the perfect saree drape can be intimidating. But fear not!
With some simple tips and tricks, any girl, regardless of height, can look stunning in a saree. To get started, let’s explore the best saree draping styles for small girls, along with tutorials on how to wear them, suitable shoe options, and advice on carrying them off with confidence. By mastering these techniques, short-height girls can break free from common misconceptions that a saree is only suited for tall and slim ladies.
How to Wear Saree if You are Short Height
Say No to heavy and broad border
When it comes to choosing a saree, tall individuals need to be mindful of the border width. Heavy and broad borders can have an optical illusion effect, making you appear shorter than your actual height. To counteract this, opt for a saree with a simple, light border – the thinner the better. This will help create a lengthening visual effect that complements your tallness.
In fact, Bollywood actress Konkona Sen, who stands at only 5 feet 1 inch, often favors plain sarees or those with minimal borders to avoid drawing attention away from her statuesque frame.
The Savior – High Heel
When it comes to pairing heels with a saree, it’s easy to get carried away with personal preferences. However, it’s crucial to consider the occasion and the overall aesthetic you want to achieve. For instance, if you’re attending a formal event and wearing a light-printed chiffon sari, wedges might not be the most suitable choice. Instead, opt for shiny and glossy heels that will complement your outfit.
On the other hand, if you’re looking to create a more understated look, square heels with moderate height can help elongate your legs and create a slimming effect. Avoid super high heels as they may draw attention away from your saree and instead focus on creating a harmonious balance between your shoes and attire.
Go for a slim fit petticoat/wear jeans underneath
When it comes to pairing a sari with a petticoat, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. For shorter women, the right petticoat can make all the difference, providing an extra boost of confidence and comfort. A fitted petticoat that skims the body is ideal, as it will create a more streamlined silhouette without adding bulk. In contrast, loose-fitting petticoats can add volume to the lower half of the body, which may not be flattering for those with shorter inseams.
Ankle-length petticoats are also a great choice, as they provide coverage while still allowing for a stylish and modern look. And if you’re looking for an added bonus, consider wearing skinny jeans underneath your sari – this will draw attention to the figure and create the illusion of longer legs. Just remember to keep things simple and avoid loose-fitting petticoats that can add bulk to the lower half.
Pin it right!
When it comes to styling a saree, the placement of the pin is crucial, especially for young women with shorter heights. The way you secure your saree can be the defining moment that makes or breaks the overall look. A well-placed pin can elevate your entire appearance, while a poorly placed one can lead to an unflattering outcome. To achieve a polished look, it’s essential to keep creases small and overlap them skillfully when draping your saree.
Choose the right fabric!
When it comes to selecting the perfect texture and material for a saree, there are several factors to consider in order to achieve the desired look. One crucial aspect is the weight of the fabric. A lightweight saree will create a lengthening effect, as it drapes elegantly around the waist, making the wearer appear taller. On the other hand, a thick or heavy material can have the opposite effect, adding visual weight and potentially making the wearer appear shorter.
This difference in texture can be seen when comparing photos of actresses Vidya Balan and Juhi Chawla, both wearing similar colored sarees and sharing a similar height and weight. Despite these similarities, Vidya’s choice of heavier fabric gives her a more substantial appearance, whereas Juhi’s lightweight option creates a more streamlined look, making the comparison between the two women’s silhouettes clear.
Give a miss to big print
When it comes to choosing the perfect saree, it’s essential to consider the print size. Large, bold prints can overwhelm and make you appear broader than you are. In contrast, smaller prints tend to flow better with the fabric’s texture, creating a leaner and taller silhouette. Sarees with thin borders can also contribute to a tall appearance, making them an excellent choice for those who want to elongate their frame. For a dramatic look, opt for a solid dark-colored saree.
This classic combination creates a stunning, intense appearance that is sure to turn heads. A plain saree with a dark color border is another great option, as it adds a touch of sophistication and elegance to the overall look. The petite Indian television actress Sarah Khan is a perfect example of how small prints can work wonders for those with petite figures.
Her love for sarees in smaller prints has always left her looking stunning, and it’s a lesson that can be applied by women of all shapes and sizes.
Right hairdo with Saree
Mastering the art of hairstyling can have a significant impact on one’s perceived height. A well-crafted hairdo can either add or subtract weight, creating an illusion that makes you appear taller. One effective technique is to opt for a high bun, which can be styled in various ways – from neat and tidy to effortlessly undone. When it comes to parting your hair, avoid the middle part as it can create the illusion of a rounder face, ultimately making you look shorter.
By embracing these simple yet powerful hairstyling hacks, you can instantly boost your confidence and make a statement.
Go for statement jewelry
When it comes to dressing to create an illusion of greater height, the key is finding balance in your accessories. Wearing too many or not enough gemstones can have the opposite effect, making you appear shorter than you are. To lengthen your frame, opt for statement pieces that draw the eye downwards, such as long jewelry or chunky shoes. Avoid over-accessorizing with multiple types of jewelry at once, like rings, studs, and bangles, as this can create visual clutter.
If you’re wearing a necklace, consider pairing it with smaller earrings to avoid drawing attention upwards. For inspiration, look to Vidya Balan, who successfully creates the illusion of greater height despite her petite stature by adding bold statement jewelry, a bindi, and dramatic eye makeup to even the simplest sarees.
Accessorize right
When it comes to accessories, they can either elevate or detract from an outfit. This is particularly true for those who are shorter in stature, as the wrong choices can have a magnifying effect and make them appear even smaller. On the other hand, selecting accessories that complement one’s look can create a harmonious balance and draw attention away from height.
Alia Bhatt, at just 5 feet 3 inches tall, is a prime example of someone who knows how to accessorize her outfits in a way that creates a stunning visual effect. She often wears sarees that are perfectly balanced with subtle yet effective accessories, which never overwhelm her frame. In fact, her style is so effortless and chic that it’s hard not to be inspired by her.
So, the key takeaway here is to choose accessories that enhance your overall look without overpowering it, and always remember that there are no set rules when it comes to accessorizing – only a willingness to experiment and find what works best for you.
Say YES to Vertical Stripe
Go for Black
The notion that black is magical for curvy individuals is an intriguing concept. When paired with shorter stature, the impact of dark colors can be profound. Essentially, donning dark hues can create the illusion of being slimmer, taller, and more refined. The perceived benefits are twofold: it not only creates a slimming effect but also adds a touch of sophistication to one’s overall appearance.
Choose the right Blouse
When pairing a saree with a blouse, create a harmonious balance by maintaining a strategic distance between the two. This means avoiding bold or heavy designs on your blouse if your saree has a light fabric or simple design. Conversely, opt for a plain blouse to complement a heavier or more elaborate saree design. In fact, pairing horizontal stripes on your blouse with those on your saree can create an unflattering combination.
By considering the texture and design of both pieces, you can ensure that they work together in perfect harmony.
Saree Pallu
When wearing a saree to the office, consider pinning up your pallu to create a stylish look. Opt for small-sized pins as they will add a touch of elegance without overwhelming your overall appearance. For evening events or gatherings, you can leave the pallu slightly loose, but avoid letting it fall too long if you want to appear taller.
To get inspiration, take a cue from Bollywood actress Asin, who stands at just 5’4″ tall and looks stunning in her simple yet sophisticated saree styles that are perfect for office wear.
Wear a Well-fitted Blouse
When it comes to dressing for the occasion, there are a few key things to keep in mind. Firstly, avoid wearing a blouse that is too tight or constricting, as this can add to an overall air of untidiness. Additionally, aim for a medium-length blouse that falls just above the knee, rather than being too short or too long. This will help create a more balanced and put-together look. When it comes to patterns, avoid horizontal stripes which can have the effect of elongating one’s figure.
Finally, consider avoiding high-neck blouses, as these can create a stuffy or formal atmosphere. By keeping these simple guidelines in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating a stylish and polished look.