Sarees have become a global symbol of Indian culture, with women wearing it proudly to showcase its Indian cultural and beauty. Sarees are passed down from generation to generation and so is the art form. And the art of Nauvari sarees is something every saree lover should possess. Originating from the state of Maharashtra, Nauvari sarees are the pride and soul of the Marathi people.
About Nauvari Sarees
Nauvari sarees are called so because of their nine-yard length. This is a speciality of Nauvari sarees, because most regular sarees are six yards in length. Nauvari sarees are so exceptional for many reasons. The saree has the appearance of a trouser-dress, so the draping of this saree is different from what you might imagine a typical saree to look like. Made of cotton, Nauvari sarees are usually worn without a petticoat.
The sarees are draped in a dhoti-style to offer ease of wear. Marathi women came up with the concept of wearing Nauvari sarees to demonstrate their warrior capabilities in times of war. With the help of Nauvari sarees, women would have the ease of movement and physical comfort to succeed in their goals.
Motifs And Designs of Nauvari Sarees
Nauvari sarees boast of a lot of bold patterns and designs to showcase dignity and strength. Floral prints and geometric patterns are what you will usually notice of Nauvari sarees. Originally, these sarees were limited in terms of colors, available only in blues and greens. But now, Nauvari sarees have evolved and are available in many different vibrant colors like pink, yellow, orange, red, gold, etc. Either way, Nauvari sarees are worn at special occasions and ceremonies, being a top choice for Marathi brides on their weddings.
Nauvari Sarees for Bridal Wear
Marathi weddings are some of the grandest events you will ever attend. And it is only fair for the bridal attire to be spectacular as well. The Nauvari saree is the best option and top choice for Marathi brides on their weddings. The saree is draped in a ‘Kashta’ style which means that the border is tucked at the back.
Since the Nauvari saree was introduced as something for female warriors to wear to offer comfort of movement, Nauvari sarees are very comfortable for Marathi brides to wear. Marathi brides usually adorn a silk scarf along with their saree as well, which is known as a ‘shela.’ The shela is brought around the shoulders of the bride and then wrapped around her hands. This is how Nauvari sarees help differentiate a Maharashtrian bride from the rest.
Yellow is a popular color that many brides choose. Your look can either be monochromatic, or you can add other colors – green, red and pink. Other top options for Maharahtrian brides are blue and pink. This beautiful saree is accompanied with stunning gold jewelry, with the characteristic Marathi Nath, or nose ring.
Styling Tips for Nauvari Sarees
Since Nauvari sarees are such a strong feminist symbol, you should style them beautifully to bring out their grandeur. Nauvari sarees are mostly worn at special occasions, ceremonies, and weddings, so the styling needs to be grand as well. In Maharashtran culture, classic all-gold necklace sets are the top choice for Nauvari sarees. Pair the saree with beautiful gold jewelry. Most Marathi women prefer to wear long gold necklaces, such as a Rani Haar, to bring out the true beauty of Nauvari sarees. Pair the necklace with chunky gold earrings or jhumkas to complete the look.
Another thing you can add to elevate the look is a gold Kamarbandh, which is a sensual gold belt worn directly on the waist. One accessory you cannot forget is the gold Nath. Any Nauvari saree is incomplete without a nose ring. So, wear that and you will look amazing. Add some bangles to your hand along with a fancy bindi and you are good to go!
You can keep the makeup simple and try to match the colors of the saree you are wearing. For instance, a blue eyeshadow would go amazingly well with a blue Nauvari saree. Other than a bold eye makeup look, you can keep the rest of the look plain and simple. Add a fresh gajra to your hair and you will achieve the classic beautiful look of a Nauvari saree.
Draping Styles of Nauvari Sarees
There are actually three different draping styles that you can opt for when wearing a Nauvari saree:
- Traditional draping style
- Peshwai draping style
- Modern draping style
All the three draping styles would look amazing on anyone. But if you are going for a special occasion or ceremony, I recommend you stick to the traditional draping style since that would bring out the beauty of the Nauvari saree the best.
