Get Ready With Me for Karvachauth: Styling My Katan Banarasi Saree

I have been in Austin for the last 15 years and have been taking part in the Karvachauth organized by my friends every year or by the Texas Community. Though I am a Bengali I love this ritual, it has something so emotional and strong bonds to set up. Karvachauth holds a special place in my heart.

As the festive season approaches, I’m always excited to celebrate Karvachauth, a beautiful tradition that I’ve embraced since moving to Austin, Texas. It's not only a day to observe the fast but also an opportunity to dress up in the most elegant traditional attire. This year, I’ve bought a stunning Magenta and Orange Katan Banarasi Saree and I can’t wait to share my "Get Ready with Me" (GRWM) tips with you, detailing how I’ll drape the saree and style my accessories for the event.

Magenta and Orange Dual Tone Color Katan Bangalore Silk Sare with Silver and Golden Zari Weaving - YouTube 

The Draping My Banarasi Saree

When it comes to traditional attire, nothing says classic elegance like a Katan Banarasi saree. The richness of the Katan silk and the intricate zari work makes it perfect for a special occasion like Karvachauth. Since the event will be held at my friend’s home in Austin, I plan to drape the saree in a traditional style with a few modern touches for comfort and grace.

  • The Nivi Drape: I’ll be opting for the traditional Nivi drape, which is the most common way to wear a saree. I love this drape because it lets the beautiful design of the saree shine while being easy to manage.

  • Pallu Styling: Since my saree has a rich, heavy border, I’ll pleat the pallu neatly and pin it to my shoulder. This keeps the look polished and allows me to move around freely during the celebrations. I might even go for an open pallu with a single pleat if I feel like showing off the intricate zari work more just like I did in 2021.

Buy the Saree Here: Magenta and Orange Dual Tone Katan Bangalore Silk Saree

  • Underskirt and Blouse: To add to the comfort, I’ll wear a matching red satin underskirt, which ensures the saree drapes well and stays secure. My blouse will be tailored with a modern cut – a boat neck with half sleeves, embellished with subtle gold details to complement the richness of the saree without overwhelming it.
  • Underskirt and Blouse: To add to the comfort, I’ll wear a matching red satin underskirt, which ensures the saree drapes well and stays secure. My blouse will be tailored with a modern cut – a boat neck with half sleeves, embellished with subtle gold details to complement the richness of the saree without overwhelming it.

Image: 2021’s Classic drape - Nivi style look but with open Pallu!

Accessorizing the Look

No traditional look is complete without the right accessories, and this year, I’ve selected pieces that elevate the elegance of my saree.

My Banarasi saree has beautiful golden and silver accents, so I’ll pair it with a stunning Monalisa stone choker that features a blend of red and gold stones. The intricate design of the choker adds just the right amount of sparkle, and its vintage vibe complements the traditional look of the saree. I love how chokers frame the neck, making the drape of the saree look even more regal. To keep the focus on the choker, I’ll skip heavy earrings and instead opt for small, delicate studs that match the stones in my necklace.

Buy My Necklace Here: Buy Sabyasachi Inspired Monalisa Stone Work Double Layered Necklace Set At IndyVogue 

Comfort is key, especially when you’re attending an event that lasts for hours. I’ve picked out a gorgeous pair of red sandals from a trusted brand that offers both style and comfort. These sandals have a modest heel, perfect for maintaining poise without sacrificing ease. Plus, they match the shade of my saree perfectly, creating a seamless, elegant look from head to toe.

Since I’m attending the event at a friend’s house, I want to keep my accessories practical but chic. I’ll carry a gold and red box clutch, which is just the right size to hold my essentials (lipstick, phone, and keys). The structured shape of the clutch adds a modern twist to the traditional saree look, while the gold accents tie in beautifully with the zari work on the saree.

Buy the Bag Here: Buy a Royal Vermillion Red Color Designer Clutch Bag with Shell Work At IndyVogue 

The Final Touches: Hair, Makeup, and Mehendi

Hair: For my hairstyle, I plan to go for a sleek, low bun. This classic hairstyle works perfectly with a saree, keeping the look elegant and sophisticated. I’ll add a small red rose to the bun to keep things festive.

Check out the image we tried during the Poila Baisakh times last year. Hope, you like the style. 

Makeup: Since my saree and jewelry are quite elaborate, I’ll keep my makeup subtle but glowing. I’ll opt for a dewy base, a soft gold eyeshadow with winged eyeliner, and of course, a bold red lipstick to match the saree. A touch of highlighter on the cheekbones will give me that extra glow for the evening.

Try the Makeup Look Here: Dewy Skin | Red Lip | MAKEUP LOOK 

Mehendi: No Karvachauth look is complete without mehendi. I’ll be applying simple yet intricate designs on my hands the day before, adding to the festive vibe of the day. The deep red of the henna complements the rich tones of my saree beautifully.

Try this Mehendi Design: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/lflQo_kq-gM?feature=share 

Celebrating Karvachauth in Austin

Karvachauth in Austin is always a special occasion. Though I’m far from India, celebrating with friends here makes me feel connected to my roots. The tradition of fasting and dressing up in beautiful sarees has become something I truly cherish. The upcoming Karvachauth will be no different, and I’m looking forward to enjoying the festivities in my red Katan Banarasi saree, surrounded by close friends and family.

I hope these GRWM tips help inspire your Karvachauth look, whether you’re celebrating in India or abroad. The joy of dressing up, sharing traditions, and being part of the festivities makes Karvachauth a beautiful celebration for all. Wishing you all a happy and stylish Karvachauth!

About the author

Sumana Bhattacharya completed her Masters in Economics from the University of Calcutta & was working with the Department of Education, Govt. of West Bengal to provide training to the teachers in Government Schools. She moved to USA in 2005 after getting married & is the mother of 2 kids. She is the one that drives IndyVogue every day, every hour, every minute and every second. Salute to her and her undying spirit.