zaro

How to wear a sari skirt as a dress?

Published in Skirt to Dress Conversion 4 mins read

To wear a sari skirt as a dress, you can creatively drape and tie the fabric to form various dress styles, including a simple halter, strapless, or one-shoulder design, often serving as a comfortable and stylish beach cover-up.

A versatile sari skirt, particularly a wrap-around style, offers numerous possibilities to transform it into a unique dress. Its generous fabric allows for different drapes and knots, making it an excellent option for casual wear, resort outfits, or as a quick cover-up.

Common Ways to Wear a Sari Skirt as a Dress

The adaptability of a sari wrap skirt makes it a popular choice for convertible styling. Here are some common methods:

1. Simple Halter Dress

This is one of the most straightforward ways to convert a sari skirt into a dress, creating a breezy, open-back style perfect for warm weather.

  • Step 1: Position the Skirt: Hold the sari skirt horizontally behind your back, ensuring the top edge is at your desired bust height.
  • Step 2: Bring to Front: Bring the top two corners of the skirt around to the front of your chest.
  • Step 3: Cross and Tie: Cross the fabric ends over your chest and bring them up and around your neck. Tie them securely behind your neck to form a halter neckline.
  • Step 4: Adjust: Adjust the fabric around your torso for coverage and comfort.

2. Strapless or Tube Dress

For a classic, effortless look, transform your sari skirt into a strapless or tube dress. This style is great for showcasing your shoulders and can be layered easily.

  • Step 1: Wrap Around Chest: Wrap the sari skirt tightly around your chest, just above your bust line.
  • Step 2: Secure Ends: Bring the ends of the fabric together at your back or side. Tie them tightly in a double knot to prevent slipping.
  • Step 3: Refine Fit: Smooth out any wrinkles and ensure the fit is snug enough to stay up but comfortable to wear. For extra security, you can use safety pins to secure the top edge to an undergarment.

3. One-Shoulder Drape

This asymmetrical style offers a more sophisticated and unique dress look, ideal for resort wear or evening events.

  • Step 1: Start at Back: Hold the skirt behind your back, bringing one end over one shoulder.
  • Step 2: Wrap Around Body: Wrap the rest of the skirt around your body, moving from the back to the front.
  • Step 3: Connect and Tie: Bring the remaining end of the skirt to meet the fabric that came over your shoulder, usually under the opposite arm or at your side. Tie the two ends together securely.
  • Step 4: Adjust Drape: Adjust the fabric to create a beautiful, flowing drape around your body.

4. Bohemian Beach Cover-Up

A sari skirt's lightweight fabric makes it an ideal beach cover-up, functioning much like a loose, comfortable dress over swimwear. This style is quick and easy for poolside transitions.

  • Simple Wrap: Drape the skirt loosely around your body, securing it with a simple knot either at chest level or around your waist. This allows the fabric to flow freely, providing airy coverage.
  • Layer with a Tank Top: For added versatility, you can wear the sari skirt with a simple tank top underneath, allowing the skirt to act as an outer layer or a primary part of a casual outfit, resembling a maxi dress.

Tips for Styling Your Sari Skirt Dress

To achieve the best look and comfort when converting a sari skirt into a dress, consider these practical tips:

  • Fabric Choice: Lighter, flowing fabrics like chiffon, georgette, rayon, or soft cotton blends are easiest to drape and knot securely.
  • Skirt Length: A longer sari skirt provides more fabric, offering greater versatility in draping options and coverage.
  • Layering: For modesty or to add an extra style dimension, wear a fitted tank top, bandeau, or camisole underneath, especially with strapless or halter styles.
  • Accessorize: Enhance your look with accessories. A slim belt can cinch the waist for definition, while statement necklaces, bangles, or sandals can complete the outfit.
Dress Style How to Tie Best For
Halter Dress Ends crossed over chest, tied behind the neck Casual outings, summer days, bohemian vibe
Strapless Dress Wrapped around chest, ends tied securely at back or side Beachwear, relaxed events, layering
One-Shoulder One end over shoulder, remainder wrapped & tied at side Resort wear, unique casual, evening out
Beach Cover-up Loosely wrapped, knotted at chest or waist over swimwear Poolside, beach, quick changes

By experimenting with different knots and drapes, you can unlock the full potential of a sari skirt, transforming it into a stylish and comfortable dress for various occasions.