Coorgi saree, hailing from the neighboring state of Karnataka, is a global sensation for its distinctive draping approach. A quick glance reveals a traditional coorgi saree with the pallu tucked neatly over the shoulder while the saree pleats are tucked backwards, almost like one shoulder dress. This draping style is also known as the Kodagu saree style. Along with the saree Coorgi women wear a piece of cloth over their head known as the vastra.
There is a mythological tale associated with this unique drape where the great sage, Agasthya’s wife Cauvery transformed herself into a river to serve people. The sage Agasthya tried to stop his wife and had to push back the pleats of her saree. From that time onwards Coorgi-style saree draping became a hallmark of grace and tradition among women.
Draping a Coorgi Saree – Follow 4 Easy-to-follow Steps
Apart from seeking inspiration from this fable, Coorgi women also find comfort in this draping style as it is convenient for them to move around and complete their chores in this saree. Whether it is moving the slopes or climbing up a tree, everything is possible wearing this traditional Coorgi saree style. So, grab your saree and get ready to twist, tuck, and twirl in the classic Coorgi style. As complicated as it looks, it is easy to tuck, follow these steps to drape your saree in Coorgi style. Let’s drape it like a Coorgi queen, shall we?
Step 1 – Begin With Elegance – Tuck And Drape
Start wearing the saree while tucking the plain upper end of the saree into the petticoat towards the right side of the navel. Ensure the whole saree length is towards the left side as the lower end of the saree skims the floor. Wrap the saree around yourself and stop on the right side of the front.
Step 2- Waist Wrap and Pallu Play
Next, wrap the saree around the waist, and instead of tucking it in the petticoat bring it to the front. Now start making pallu pleats with the other end. Make the pleats according to as broad or as narrow as the border of the saree or as per your comfort. Ensure the ends of the pallu are opposite of each other.
Step 3 – Perfect Pallu Placement
Ensure the pallu length reaches the floor and pin the pleats at the center back of the back. Next, bring the pallu just below the left shoulder as you bring it to the front before the same end of the shoulder. Keep the length either below the knee or above the knee.
Step 4 – Final Touches
Next, Use safety pins to pin all the pleats on the shoulder at the front side of the blouse. Next, Take the Pallu from the back and place it and you are good to go.
Variations of the Drape
You can experiment with the Coorgi drape and make different variations of the same. You can let the pallu go below the left shoulder and bring it to the front over the right shoulder. Again, the length of the pallu could be as per your choice, either above or below the knee.
Modern Coorgi Style Saree
In the initial days, cotton fabrics were used for this draping style. However, scenes shifted dramatically when the British took over Coorg, introducing significant alteration to the traditional Coorgi style saree drape. The accompanying blouse or jacket (typically paired with the saree) also underwent notable changes, particularly in terms of the neckline.
The trend of the high neckline or band collar came into vogue and became a rage. The modern Coorgi style saree evolved beyond cotton embracing luxurious fabrics such as satin, silk, and velvet transforming the saree into a canvas of opulence and style.
From the history rooted in mythology to the modern twist that has evolved over time, the Coorgi saree is more than just a drape, it is a celebration of culture and fashion. Whether you want to grace a festive occasion or simply want to infuse a touch of elegance the Coorgi saree style drape has your back.
