How to Wear a Saree During Pregnancy – Useful Tips and Different Styles

A saree is a graceful garment that can make a woman look beautiful. Sarees are a symbol of cultural pride and can look truly elegant when worn the right way. Pregnant women may feel hesitant to wear a saree because of their baby bump. However, it is possible to drape a saree while pregnant and look very graceful without feeling any discomfort. By choosing the right fabric and draping style, a saree in pregnancy can not only provide comfort but also enhance the natural beauty of an expecting mother. Embracing the traditional attire during this special time can add a touch of elegance and pride.

Useful Tips on Wearing a Saree During Pregnancy

Here are some useful tips on wearing a saree during pregnancy:

1. Do a Trial Run

If you are planning to wear a saree for any important occasion, it is a good idea to do a trial run the day before. Try the saree on at home and make sure you feel comfortable walking around and sitting in it. Confirm that the saree causes you no discomfort. Once you are convinced that you are comfortable in the saree, you can wear it for the occasion.

Source: Pinterest

2. Pick Loose Fabrics Without Heavy Embroidery

Although it may be tempting to pick a Banarasi or Zardosi saree with heavy embroidery and stiff fabric, it is better to avoid these. Heavy embroidery will weigh you down and can make you itchy and uncomfortable during pregnancy. Also, stiff or rough fabrics could give you rashes and also make you look heavier.

Source: Pinterest

3. Use Lightweight Fabrics

Choose lightweight and soft fabrics like cotton, chiffon or Georgette. These fabrics are comfortable, easier to drape, and will look beautiful on your pregnant body. Sarees with thin borders and small prints like floral patterns will flatter your body nicely during pregnancy.

Source: Pinterest

4. Use a Pregnancy Belly Band

Pregnancy belly bands are tube-shaped fabrics made of elastic or stretchy material. They fasten around the baby bump and are safe and comfortable. They come in a variety of colours. You can choose a belly band that matches your saree colour that can cover your baby bump and help hold up the saree comfortably.

5. Try a Different Draping Style

The traditional saree-draping style may not work for you during pregnancy. Try a different draping style which is loose and comfortable and can hide the baby bump if you do not wish to show it off. Some examples of different draping styles are Bengali, Gujarati, and Coorgi.

Source: Pinterest

6. Get Help

During pregnancy, you will need help draping a saree and perfecting the pleats. You may not be able to bend down to straighten the pleats or twist around to drape it properly. So, ask someone to help you out and get them to pin up the pleats so that you do not have to worry about them coming apart later. Also, get help to wear the saree slightly higher than usual to avoid tripping over the pleats.

Source: Pinterest

ADVERTISEMENT

7. Wear a Longer Blouse

If you do not want to show off your baby bump, opt for a longer blouse like the Choli-blouse. This blouse covers you till the midriff and is also comfortable. It could have full-length or short sleeves depending on your preference. Make sure the blouse is comfortable and does not feel tight on your belly when you sit.

Source: Pinterest

8. Opt for Adjustable Petticoats

Choosing an adjustable petticoat can be incredibly beneficial during pregnancy. Petticoats with drawstring waistbands allow you to adjust the fit according to your comfort level and growing belly. This ensures that you are not restricted and can move freely without any discomfort.

Source: Pinterest

ADVERTISEMENT

9. Experiment With Colors and Patterns

Experimenting with colors and patterns can help you feel more confident and stylish during pregnancy. Opt for sarees in darker shades or with vertical patterns, which can create a slimming effect. Avoid large, bold prints that may draw attention to your baby bump if you prefer a more subtle look. Choosing the right colors and patterns can enhance your overall appearance and make you feel more comfortable in your saree.

Source: Pinterest

10. Drape it Over or Under Your Baby Bump

If you are comfortable showing off your baby bump, you can tie the saree below your belly. However, in case you do not want to show off the baby bump, you can tie the saree above the baby bump so that it is fully covered. Check in a full-length mirror to ensure that the saree pleats are not dangling high above your feet, exposing your ankles. The pleats should also not be low enough to make you trip over them.

Source: Pinterest

Saree Draping While Pregnant

Wearing a saree during pregnancy is a timeless way to maintain elegance and comfort. Here are the steps on how to tie a saree during pregnancy.

1. Start with the Petticoat

When you start draping, make sure the inner skirt or petticoat is placed above your belly. Tie it up a little loosely to avoid any discomfort. This placement helps to accommodate your growing belly and ensures a snug fit.

2. Arrange Center Pleats

Arrange a few pleats at the centre to avoid a bulky and heavy look. Properly managed pleats will create a streamlined appearance, making you look elegant and comfortable.

3. Adjust Saree Length

The saree length should be kept above your feet to prevent tripping. Ensuring the saree is slightly above ground level helps you walk comfortably without the risk of slipping.

4. Bengali-Style Draping

You can choose to wear the Bengali-style saree during pregnancy. This style offers an easy-fitting and comfortable look with fewer pleats at the centre. It’s a great option for a relaxed and elegant appearance.

5. Gujarati-Style Draping

Another option is the traditional Gujarati style, which is perfect for pregnant women. This draping style provides ample room and comfort, making it an ideal choice for expectant mothers.

6. Seek Help in Late Pregnancy

If you are in the 7 to 9 months stage of pregnancy, make sure to get help from others to drape the saree. Having assistance ensures the saree is draped properly and securely without causing any strain on your body.

Different Saree Styles You Can Try During Pregnancy

The traditional saree-draping style may not feel comfortable during pregnancy. There are a variety of other draping styles that are loose and comfortable, but also look beautiful. Here are some different styles of saree draping for pregnant ladies:

1. Bengali Style

The Bengali saree-draping style is loose and comfortable, but also looks elegant and sophisticated. It does not involve too much pleating and uses folds to give it an interesting look. The pallu comes down in front and can be used to conceal the baby bump easily.

Source: Pinterest

ADVERTISEMENT

2. Gujarati Style

The Gujarati style saree is another way for pregnant women to look graceful and hide their baby bump if they wish to do so. The pleated pallu is draped around the belly and is perfect for women who want to conceal their pregnant belly. You can team up the Gujarati-style drape with a long blouse that comes up to your midriff for a fashionable look.

Source: Pinterest

ADVERTISEMENT

3. Coorgi Style

The Coorgi style saree is draped across the upper body just above the chest with the pallu tucked over the shoulder, and the pleats tucked in behind the waist. It is different from other styles that have the pleats tucked into the front. The Coorgi style completely hides the belly and is easy to drape. It also feels very comfortable.

Source: Pinterest

ADVERTISEMENT

FAQs

1. Can I wear a saree throughout my pregnancy?

Yes, you can wear a saree throughout your pregnancy. Opt for lightweight and comfortable fabrics like cotton, chiffon, or georgette, and ensure the saree is draped loosely to accommodate your growing belly.

2. Are there specific saree draping styles suitable for pregnancy?

Yes, certain draping styles like the Bengali or Gujarati styles are more suitable for pregnancy. These styles are comfortable and provide ample room for the baby bump.

3. How do I ensure my saree stays in place all day?

Using safety pins strategically can help keep your saree in place. Pin the pleats and the pallu securely, and consider using double-sided tape for extra support.

4. How do I handle bathroom breaks while wearing a saree during pregnancy?

Wearing a saree with an adjustable waistband or opting for a pre-stitched saree can make bathroom breaks easier. Ensure the saree is draped loosely for quick adjustments.

5. Is it safe to wear a saree in the third trimester?

Yes, it is safe to wear a saree in the third trimester as long as you ensure it is draped comfortably. Avoid tight draping and heavy fabrics to reduce any strain on your belly.

Pregnancy does not mean that your options are limited. Wearing a saree while pregnant is completely normal. If you are not comfortable wearing a saree at all, it is better to avoid it as you may end up tripping and hurting yourself and the baby. If you love wearing sarees but are hesitant to try it during pregnancy, make sure you are comfortable first. Do not be afraid to experiment with different fabrics, blouses and draping styles. Find the saree-draping style that suits you best, and is both comfortable and gorgeous.

Also Read: 

Must Have Maternity Outfits
Right Clothes to Wear during Pregnancy
How to Choose the Right Bra in Pregnancy?
Your Complete Pregnancy Essentials Checklist
Choosing Comfortable Footwear when Pregnant

Our Editorial Policy

Parenting is a huge responsibility, for you as a caregiver, but also for us as a parenting content platform. We understand that and take our responsibility of creating credible content seriously. FirstCry Parenting articles are written and published only after extensive research using factually sound references to deliver quality content that is accurate, validated by experts, and completely reliable. To understand how we go about creating content that is credible, read our editorial policy here.