Saree is typically described as a traditional dress in Asia, particularly India. That’s why people from other part of the world, especially white girls wonder a bit before wearing a saree. But Hollywood divas such as Selena Gomez, Paris Hilton, Angelina Jolie, Julia Roberts and many other have shown how to rock this Indian wear without going overboard. If you are wondering if a white girl can wear a saree then we will give you the answer in this oneHOWTO article.
Saree and Skin color
“Should a white girl wear saree?” – This question usually arises because of the look of saree on a white woman and on an Indian woman. Asian, especially Indian women have a brownish skin tone. That’s why they can pull off the most vibrant of colors without looking out of place. But when a white woman wears the same color, she is considered tacky.
But the main thing is that not every saree is of bright red or yellow color. There are many variations and shades of saree. The same color would be of different shade depending on the textile of the saree. For example, yellow gives a shiny bright shade on silk saree but it looks a bit matte on handloom saree. So, choosing the right color and right textile of saree can make it look perfect on any white woman.
Can a White Girl wear a Saree?
Of course a white girl can wear a saree. She can wear it anytime, anywhere and on any day. There is no right or wrong place/time for wearing a saree. The only thing right or wrong is the color and textile of saree.
The one main things you need to carry off a saree is your confidence. If you are confident that you are looking good and you can carry the look then wear a saree. Start with light weight fabrics which are not slippery such as cotton sarees. They are great for beginners and perfect for the hot humid weather.
Why do Indians look at white woman wearing saree in India?
Women from the west have often complained that Indians gawk at them when they wear saree in India.
The reason is: Most Indians look at white women wearing saree simply to admire her. Yes, that’s the truth. Indian women’s skin tone is darker than the western women. So, when they look at a fair skinned western lady donning their traditional wear with elan, they look in admiration and pride.
What a white girl should not do while wearing saree?
- The first thing is tp make sure where you are wearing a saree. If you are planning to visit tourist places while wearing a saree then choose a simple printed saree. Do not choose one which is heavily embroidered however beautiful they may look. Heavily embroidered sarees should only be worn during a festival or some other occasion such as marriage.
- The second thing is never go overboard with jewelry. If you are just visiting places then a few bangles and / or a beautiful yet simple set of earring would be perfect. You can also wear a simple necklace. But always reserve your heavily ornate jewelries for special occasions such as festivals or weddings.
- Western girls love bindi. Not only western girls, Indian women too love to adorn their forehead with bindi. But always remember: never go overboard with bindi. Don’t stick bindis all over your forehead in the name of style. That just looks plain awkward. A simple bindi looks much more appealing with a simple saree. Ornate bindis are also available which can be worn with heavily embellished sarees.
- The last thing that you should keep in mind is that never wear a saree in which you feel uncomfortable. Everyone can sense that you are not feeling comfortable in your attire which in turn hampers your confidence. Wear a saree only if you feel like it. Or else take the inspiration from Michele Obama and wear a skirt / dress in Indian textile just like hers when she visited India in 2015. This way you would flaunt both western and Indian culture and feel confident at the same time.
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