Traditional & Regional
Kodava (Coorg) Saree Drape
Kodava Weddings · Receptions · Family Celebrations
The Kodava drape is one I love explaining to brides, because the first thing everyone notices is what's missing: there are no pleats at the front. The pleats are tucked at the back of the waist, and the saree's lower and upper borders run parallel to each other, with a definite spacing between them that I customize to each client.
The Kodava (Coorg) drape comes from the Kodava community of Kodagu in Karnataka. Its defining feature is that the pleats are tucked at the back of the waist instead of the front. The pallu is brought from the back, under one arm and across the body, then pinned or knotted over the right shoulder. The lower border and the upper border run parallel to each other, with a definite spacing between them that is customized to the client's needs. The classic Kodava bridal look is a red silk saree with gold, worn with a head scarf and traditional jewellery such as the pathak and kokkethathi. Shown here on a mannequin; the head scarf and jewellery complete the bridal look.
Complimentary Trial Drape
Every bride gets a complimentary trial run before her big day — she chooses her pleat count, the width of each pleat, and whether she prefers a fuller, puffier finish or a clean, flat one, so Smitha drapes it exactly to her preference.