Retro Style Saree – Timeless Fashion with Vintage Flair

Indian fashion carries a rich heritage of fabrics, draping styles, and timeless elegance. Among the most iconic styles that continue to inspire modern fashion is the retro style saree.
It reminds us of the golden years of the 60s, 70s, and 80s when Mumtaz, Hema Malini, Rekha, and Sridevi made fashion trends that inspire women even today. With its distinctive draping style, vibrant colors, and dazzling sheen, the retro saree is in vogue today.

What is a Retro Style Saree?

The retro saree is what the sarees that look like the sarees of the earlier decades in the 1960s to the 1980s have been called. They are dramatic, bold in design, and strong, and they are crafted from chiffon, georgette, satin, and silk. They are paired with statement blouses, winged eyeliner, and big hair, mimicking the peak of vintage Bollywood glamour.

Whereas traditional sarees focus on cultural draping, the retro style saree focuses on glamour, curves, and attitude. It is a fusion of innovating draping styles that focus on the silhouette of the body along with a light and effortless saree to wear.

Characteristics of Retro Saree Style

Fabric: Chiffons, satin, and georgette were used most often, creating a flowing, diaphanous effect.

Colors & Prints: Golden colors, bold reds, rich blacks, flowers, polka dots, and stripes defined the retro period.

Blouses: Halter necks were the norm in classic saree sets, followed by sleeveless, puff sleeves, and back deeps.

Accessories: Large jewelry, large sunglasses, sarees wrapped around the waist, and bouffant haircuts ruled the trend.

Retro Style Saree Draping Designs

It was the draping technique of the retro style saree that rendered it ageless. The technique imparted sarees a glamorous and striking look, different from the conventional drapes.

Mumtaz Draping Style

One of the most popular retro drapes, so called because it was made famous by actress Mumtaz in the film Brahmachari. In this, the saree is draped close to the body in pleated folds without opening the pallu. It accentuates the curves and is a stylish, retro look.

Steps:

• Start pleating the saree from the waist and make close lower pleats.
• Tie it tightly around the body rather than flowing pallu.
• The pallu drapes over the shoulder but is short and close-fitting.

Pallu Over the Shoulder (Free-Flowing Style)

Worn during the 70s and 80s, this drape allows the pallu to flow freely, pinned on one shoulder at times, showcasing trendy blouses. Chiffon sarees are ideal for this drape, which adds elegance and fluidity.

Steps:

• Traditional tucking and pleating of the saree.
• Place the pallu and neatly fold it onto the shoulder.
• Leave it long, highlighting the design of the blouse.

Belted Saree Style

Belt was a part of the retro trend saree. Wearing a belt around the waist not only performed the task of holding the saree together but also provided a contemporary, structured look.

Steps:

• Drap the saree in Nivi style.
• Once pleats are locked in place, fasten the waist with a thin or wide belt.
• Match with chunky accessories for a retro appearance.

One-Sided Pallu Cover

In the majority of 70s movies, heroines kept the pallu on the body side while adorning themselves in their saree, thereby being stylish and demure.

Steps:

• Wrap the saree conventionally.
• Cross the pallu over the breast and bring it over the second shoulder and tie.
• It looks best on georgette or chiffon sarees.

Why Retro Style Sarees are in Vogue Today?

The retro style saree is experiencing a humongous return with fashion due to its timeless appeal. It is a combination of sophistication and vibrancy, making it possible for women to experiment with various styles. For Bollywood party themes, wedding ceremonies, and celebratory events, retro sarees offer a retro but fashionable touch.

Designers and celebrities have also brought back old saree fashion on red carpets and catwalks. Fashion enthusiasts like to replicate Mumtaz draping or dress up sarees in old blouses, belts, and liberal makeup to look like vintage beauty.

Tips for Styling Retro Style Saree

• Pair chiffon sarees with puff-sleeve or halter-neck blouses.
• Select striking prints such as metallic finish, flowers, or polka dots.
• Accessories with vintage jewelry such as chokers, chunky earrings, and bangles.
• Choose bouffant buns, curls, or side-swept waves styles.
• Complete the retro aesthetic with winged eyeliner and over-the-top lipstick.

The vintage style saree is not just a walk down memory lane but also a move towards timelessness in fashion. With its distinctive draping pattern, vibrant colors, and bold patterns, it still inspires women of all ages. Stepping out for a party, wedding, or costume party, this saree style exudes an elegance that is never passé.

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