How to wear lehenga dupatta in south indian style

A lehenga is a timeless garment that beautifully combines elegance, tradition, and flair, making it a favorite for festive occasions, weddings, and celebrations. While lehengas are commonly worn across India, each region has its own unique way of styling the outfit. In South India, the lehenga dupatta is typically styled in a distinct way that emphasizes grace and elegance. Here's a guide to help you wear a lehenga dupatta in South Indian style:

1. The Classic South Indian Draping Style

In South Indian fashion, the dupatta or "odhni" is often draped in a way that complements the lehenga’s intricate embroidery and enhances the overall look. Here's how you can drape it:

• Step 1: Start by securing your lehenga and blouse. Make sure your lehenga is sitting at the right waist level, neither too high nor too low.
• Step 2: Take one end of the dupatta and drape it over your left shoulder, letting it fall gracefully down your back.
• Step 3: The other end of the dupatta should be brought across your front. You can either leave it hanging loosely over your chest or bring it diagonally to the left shoulder, like a scarf.
• Step 4: For added elegance, tuck the end of the dupatta into the waistband of your lehenga or secure it with a pin. You can also choose to let it flow freely, depending on your preference and the occasion.

This style often gives a clean, sophisticated look while allowing the dupatta to flow in a graceful manner, highlighting the lehenga's beauty.

2. South Indian Lehenga Dupatta with a Pleated Look

The pleated style is a popular way to wear a dupatta in South India, especially when paired with a lehenga. This method adds a regal touch and ensures that the dupatta stays neatly in place.

• Step 1: Begin by folding the dupatta neatly into pleats. The width of the pleats can vary depending on the size of the dupatta and the look you’re going for. Typically, pleats are around 6-8 inches wide.
• Step 2: Once the pleats are made, drape the dupatta over your left shoulder, allowing the pleats to cascade gently down your back.
• Step 3: Take the pleated end of the dupatta and bring it across your front to the opposite shoulder. Pin it to the shoulder or tuck it into your waistband to keep the pleats in place.
• Step 4: Adjust the pleats so they fall gracefully and symmetrically for a clean, structured appearance.

This pleated dupatta style adds volume and structure, making it ideal for formal events like weddings and temple visits.

3. Traditional South Indian Half Dupatta Style

In many South Indian states, particularly in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, a more traditional approach to draping the lehenga dupatta involves using it as a half dupatta. This style is less heavy and gives a more modest yet charming look.

• Step 1: Secure your lehenga and blouse, ensuring that the lehenga fits snugly at your waist.
• Step 2: Instead of a full drape, the dupatta is taken over the shoulder and pinned on the opposite side of the blouse.
• Step 3: The end of the dupatta should fall loosely from the shoulder, covering part of your arm, without covering your entire torso.
• Step 4: You can also create pleats at the end of the dupatta before pinning it for a neat and structured look.

This style is common in more traditional South Indian weddings, where it complements the simplicity and grace of the outfit without overwhelming it.

4. The Elegant "V" Draping Style

For a more fashionable and modern South Indian look, the "V" style is a chic way to wear the lehenga dupatta. This style draws attention to the neckline and provides a sleek, contemporary look.

• Step 1: Start by securing your lehenga and blouse properly.
• Step 2: Drape one end of the dupatta over the left shoulder, letting it fall naturally down your back.
• Step 3: Now, bring the other end of the dupatta around the front, but rather than just letting it hang loosely, twist it in a V-shape. The dupatta should form a V across your body, falling down from both sides of the shoulder.
• Step 4: Pin the dupatta at the top to keep the V-shape intact and let the fabric flow elegantly.

This style is perfect for showcasing the intricate work on both the lehenga and the dupatta, making it a great choice for weddings or grand events.

5. Pairing with Traditional South Indian Jewelry

To complete your South Indian look with the lehenga and dupatta, pairing the outfit with traditional jewelry like temple jewelry, heavy gold necklaces, and jhumkas (traditional earrings) is a must. The right jewelry adds authenticity and enhances the elegance of your ensemble.

Tips for Styling Your Lehenga Dupatta in South Indian Style

• Fabric Matters: Opt for fabrics like silk, chiffon, or georgette for the dupatta, as they drape beautifully and are commonly used in South Indian fashion.
• Use of Pins: Always secure the dupatta with pins to ensure it stays in place throughout the event.
• Balance with Accessories: South Indian outfits often feature intricate gold jewelry and vibrant flowers, so keep your accessories in balance with your lehenga and dupatta style to avoid overwhelming the look.
• Footwear: South Indian style often involves wearing traditional footwear like "kolhapuris" or "paduka sandals," which complement the lehenga beautifully.
  

Conclusion

Wearing a lehenga dupatta in South Indian style adds a unique touch of tradition, elegance, and charm. Whether you’re opting for a simple pleated look, the classic drape, or a more intricate V-style drape, these styling tips can help you wear your lehenga dupatta with confidence and grace. Don't forget to add your personal touch with accessories and makeup to complete the traditional yet modern look.