The saree, made simpler for a new generation

For many women, wearing a saree is part of what makes Deepavali feel special. The 6m-long garment carries generations of tradition and elegance – but getting every pleat and fold into place can be another matter entirely.

For those who never quite mastered the technique, fashion designer and tailor S C Kavitha has a simpler answer: pre-pleated and readymade sarees that preserve the look while cutting down the time spent getting dressed.

Kavitha said the styles have become increasingly popular over the past five years, particularly among younger women who may admire the saree but find traditional draping intimidating.

“Teenagers, in particular, often find wearing a saree difficult because they need help putting it on and getting the pleats right,” she told Bernama. “It can take up to an hour, so many prefer simpler outfits like anarkalis, kurtis or modern dresses.”

Pre-pleated sarees offer a middle ground. Kavitha first measures the garment to fit the wearer, then arranges and steam-presses the pleats before securing them in place. Once prepared, the saree can be slipped on and wrapped around the body in about five minutes, without another pair of hands needed to straighten or rebuild the pleats.

Readymade sarees take convenience a step further, with hooks or buckles at the waist that allow them to be fastened much like a kain sarung.

“The wearer only needs to fasten the hooks and drape the pallu over her shoulder, all in less than a minute,” Kavitha explained. “This takes the stress out of getting ready, especially when welcoming guests or heading to the temple.”

That ease has helped broaden the saree’s appeal beyond Deepavali morning. “I get many orders from Malays and Chinese who want to wear sarees to their Indian friends’ weddings, multicultural events or school functions.

“It’s nice to see people from different backgrounds celebrating our diverse cultures.”

Kavitha charges RM30 to RM40 to pre-pleat a saree, depending on the fabric, while tailoring a readymade version costs RM85 to RM90.

Even as she makes the garment easier to wear, she has not given up on the traditional skill behind it. Kavitha also conducts saree-draping classes, including one-day intensive sessions and two-day workshops for those who want to learn the technique properly.

She said mastering the folds still takes patience and hands-on practice, which is one reason she wants to ensure the knowledge is not lost.

“I want my students to learn the technique properly and remember what they have been taught so they can one day pass on their skills to others,” she said.

For some wearers, that may mean learning the traditional method. For others, a few hooks and neatly prepared pleats are enough to make the saree feel less daunting, while keeping its style and grace very much intact.

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