Finding the right hairstyle for your saree can be tricky! I’ve spent countless hours experimenting with different looks, and I’m here to share everything I’ve learned about pairing the perfect hairstyle with your favourite sarees. Whether you’re heading to a wedding, festival, or casual day out, I’ve covered you with these easy-to-do hairstyles that’ll make you look stunning.
Quick and Easy Buns: Your Go-To Savior
Who doesn’t love a good bun? It’s classic, elegant, and takes minutes to create. Here’s why I swear by them:
The Classic Low Bun
This is my absolute favourite for formal occasions. Here’s how I do it:
- Start with slightly textured hair (second-day hair works best!)
- Pull your hair back smoothly
- Twist it into a bun at the nape of your neck
- Secure with pins and hairspray
Pro tip: Leave a few strands loose around your face β trust me, it softens your features and looks so elegant with a saree!
The Messy Top Bun
Perfect for those casual saree days when you want to look effortlessly chic:
- Gather your hair high on your crown
- Twist it loosely into a bun
- Pull out a few pieces to create that perfectly undone look
- Secure with bobby pins
- Add some flowers if you’re feeling fancy!
I love this style because it works with any saree and takes less than 5 minutes to create.
Braids That Never Disappoint
The Side Braid
This is my go-to for summer events. It’s simple yet sophisticated:
- Part your hair on one side
- Gather all hair over one shoulder
- Braid loosely
- Secure with a thin elastic
- Gently pull the braid apart for volume
The best part? It keeps your hair off your neck while looking gorgeous with any saree.
The Braided Bun
This one’s a show-stopper that looks way more complicated than it is:
- Make a regular braid
- Wrap it around into a bun
- Secure with pins
- Pull out a few face-framing pieces
I’ve worn this to countless weddings, and people always ask me if I got it done at a salon!
Let-Down Styles That Turn Heads
Soft Waves
Perfect for those fancy evening events:
- Start with clean, dry hair
- Use a large-barrel curling iron
- Curl away from your face
- Run your fingers through to break up the curls
- Set with a light hairspray
The contrast between the structured saree and flowing waves is stunning.
Straight and Sleek
This works beautifully with modern sarees:
- Straighten your hair completely
- Add a serum for shine
- Tuck one side behind your ear
- Let the other side flow freely
I love this look because it’s modern, minimal, and easy to maintain daily.
Special Occasion Styles
The Half-Up Twist
This is my secret weapon for wedding functions:
- Section off the top half of your hair
- Twist it back loosely
- Secure with decorative pins
- Curl the remaining hair
- Add some flowers or a fancy clip
The Royal Roll
Perfect for those traditional functions:
- Roll the front section of your hair
- Pin it securely
- Gather the rest into a low bun
- Add traditional accessories
Tips and Tricks I’ve Learned Along the Way
Prep Work Matters
- Always start with day-old hair if possible
- Use a good dry shampoo for extra grip
- Apply heat protectant if using hot tools
- Keep extra bobby pins handy
Making Your Style Last
Trust me, I’ve learned these the hard way:
- Use hairspray before and after styling
- Carry a small comb for touch-ups
- Pack emergency bobby pins
- Consider the weather when choosing your style
Matching Your Hairstyle to Your Saree
This is something that took me years to perfect:
For Heavy Work Sarees
- Keep the hair simple and elegant
- Avoid too many accessories
- Focus on neat, clean lines
- Consider a sleek bun or straight hair
For Simple Sarees
- Get creative with your hairstyle
- Add more accessories
- Try more elaborate braids
- Experiment with waves and curls
Regional Style Inspirations
South Indian Style
- Traditional bun with middle parting
- Fresh flowers as accessories
- Neat, pulled-back looks
- Focus on symmetry
North Indian Flair
- More volume at the crown
- Side-swept styles
- Loose, romantic curls
- Bolder accessories
Bengali Touch
- Softer, more romantic styles
- Floral additions
- Looser buns
- Face-framing layers
Accessories That Make a Difference
Traditional Options
- Fresh flowers
- Gajra (flower garland)
- Decorative pins
- Hair chains
Modern Touches
- Pearl pins
- Elegant clips
- Metallic accessories
- Subtle hair cuffs
Common Mistakes to Avoid
I’ve made these mistakes so you don’t have to:
- Over-styling your hair
- Using too many accessories
- Not securing the style properly
- Forgetting about the back view
- Not considering the saree’s style
Weather-Specific Adaptations
For Summer
- Keep it off your neck
- Use anti-humidity products
- Opt for secure styles
- Consider braids or high buns
For Monsoon
- Choose frizz-resistant styles
- Use extra securing products
- Keep it simple and neat
- Avoid loose styles
For Winter
- Embrace volume
- Try looser styles
- Experiment with accessories
- Use moisturizing products
Quick Fixes for Common Problems
Flyaways
- Keep a small hairspray
- Use hair pins strategically
- Carry a small brush
- Have emergency hair ties
Falling Buns
- Use smaller sections
- Cross pins for better hold
- Try spiral pins
- Use a hair donut
Style Guide Based on Face Shape
Oval Face
- Most styles work well
- Try center partings
- Experiment with height
- Play with volume
Round Face
- Create height at the crown
- Try side partings
- Avoid too much width
- Consider asymmetrical styles
Square Face
- Soften angles with waves
- Try side-swept styles
- Add face-framing pieces
- Keep the volume at the sides
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Mornings
Because we’ve all been there:
- Prep your hair the night before
- Keep your tools organized
- Practice your go-to styles
- Have backup options ready
Final Thoughts
Remember, the best hairstyle makes you feel confident and comfortable. Don’t be afraid to adapt these styles to suit your preferences and hair type. The key is to balance your saree’s elegance and your hairstyle’s practicality.
These hairstyles will help you look and feel your best, whether for a traditional or more modern look. The most important thing is to wear your style confidently β that makes any look perfect!
Keep experimenting, and you’ll soon find your signature saree hairstyle. After all, the best part about styling your hair for a saree is that it lets you express your personality while honouring this beautiful traditional garment.