Dupatta Draping Style to Glam Up Your Punjabi Outfit

Harpreet
Jul 28
3 min read

When it comes to Punjabi outfits, the dupatta is more than just a piece of fabric- it's a powerful style statement. Whether you're getting ready for a wedding, a festive celebration, or a casual outing, how you drape your dupatta can completely transform your look. Let's explore some stunning dupatta draping styles that will add instant glam to your traditional ensemble.

The Classic Over-the Shoulder Drape

This timeless style never goes out of fashion. Simply drape your dupatta over one shoulder and let it fall naturally. It pairs perfectly with a Patiala suit or salwar kameez. This style allows you to highlight both the dupatta and the outfit.

Best For: Heavy dupatta design or with an intricate border.

Style Tip: Choose a phulkari dupatta for vibrant, traditional charm. For ease, use a safety pin to pin the dupatta around your shoulder so you can focus on your day!

Over-the-Shoulder with Wrist Tie

Another timeless you will see at almost wedding event. The dupatta is pleated and carefully placed over one shoulder. The dupatta should fall to the same length as your kameez. This is then pinned at the shoulder. The dupatta is then falls around your back and is then tied at your wrist. This style keeps the dupatta out of your way whilst complementing your outfit.

Best For: Light dupattas with bold colour, where you want to keep the outfit as the statement piece of the outfit.

Style Tip: Use a safety pin to tie the dupatta corner around your wrist.

Front U-Shape Drape

Drape the dupatta over both shoulder until you have a U-shape in the middle section. The size of the U-shape depends on your neckline and embroidery that this style allows you to showcase. Once you have found the desired length, pin the dupatta at both shoulders. You can either let the dupatta naturally fall on your arms.

Best For: Engagements and other main occasions which will require heavier and more intricate outfits. Use georgette or silk dupattas to create the perfect fall.

Style Tip: Rather than letting the dupatta fall off your shoulders, you may choose to pin both ends of the dupatta to your shoulders to keep the fabric off your arms. Choosing which is up to your own preference

Back U-Shape Drape

A regal look that is often chosen is to loop the dupatta on your arms and allow a natural U-Shape drop at the back of your outfit. This style is perfect to keep the dupatta out of your way whilst showing off the outfit and allow the dupatta.

Best For: Light dupattas. Ideal of mehndi or maiyaan events.

Style Tips: If you find the dupatta is very long creating a long drape behind you. Pin one side of the dupatta to your shoulders to create a 'Cape' style. This style works better if you have a more intricate dupatta that you want on show!

Cross Body Drape

This is one of my favourite drapes and my go to if I have a beautiful and heavy dupatta that I want to make the star of my outfit! Pin one corner of the dupatta to your shoulder and allow the dupatta to gather and drape across your body and go around to meet the same shoulder from the back.

Best For: Heavy dupattas.

Style Tips: This drape style has so many version so allow your self to be creative and see what looks best for you

Final Thoughts

Your drape style will say a lot about your outfit! Whether you're going for a traditional vibe or experimenting with modern flair, there's a dupatta look for every mood and moment. This aspect of Punjabi fashion allows people to be creative. Don't be afraid to play with fabrics, colors, and accessories to make your outfit uniquely yours.

Harpreet Kaur (Owner of Apna Clothing) -

"I have many fond memories of helping my mother pin her dupatta before nagging her to do mine. Then getting older and experimenting with my styles which my mum would then say "me too, me too!" Then suddenly there is a long line of cousins wanting you to drape for them!"