what shoes to wear with saree

3 min read 24-12-2024

The saree, a timeless garment draped in elegance and grace, demands footwear that complements its beauty. Choosing the right shoes can elevate your entire look, taking it from simple to stunning. This comprehensive guide will explore the diverse world of footwear options, helping you find the perfect pair to match your saree and occasion. Finding the right shoes for your saree is crucial, and we’ll explore various styles to help you make the perfect choice.

Understanding the Saree and Occasion

Before we delve into specific shoe styles, let's consider the saree itself and the occasion you're dressing for. A traditional silk saree calls for different footwear than a contemporary cotton saree. Similarly, a wedding requires a more elaborate shoe than a casual lunch date.

Types of Sarees and Matching Footwear

Silk Sarees (Banarasi, Kanjeevaram): These luxurious sarees often benefit from classic and elegant footwear. Think embellished heels, juttis, or even delicately beaded sandals.
Cotton Sarees: Cotton sarees lend themselves to a more relaxed vibe. Flats, wedges, or simple embellished sandals are ideal choices.
Net/Georgette Sarees: These lightweight sarees look great with heels or delicate sandals that complement the fabric's flow. Avoid heavy or clunky shoes.
Party Wear Sarees: For special occasions, you have more flexibility. High heels, embellished sandals, or even stylish juttis can elevate the look.

Types of Footwear to Wear with a Saree

The beauty of the saree lies in its versatility. This allows for a broad range of footwear choices, each offering a unique style statement.

1. Heels

High heels, especially stilettos and block heels, instantly add a touch of sophistication. They elongate the legs and create a more polished silhouette. Choose heels that match the color palette of your saree or complement it with a contrasting hue. Avoid overly flashy heels with a traditional saree; keep them elegant and understated.

2. Flats

For everyday wear or more relaxed occasions, flats are a comfortable and chic option. Ballerinas, embellished flats, or even stylish kolhapuris can be perfect complements to your saree. Consider the fabric and drape of your saree when choosing flats – lighter fabrics pair well with delicate flats.

3. Wedges

Wedges offer the height of heels with the comfort of flats. They are a versatile choice, suitable for various saree types and occasions. Wedges can add a touch of elegance without compromising on comfort, making them ideal for longer events.

4. Juttis

Juttis, traditional Indian footwear, are a beautiful and culturally relevant choice. They come in countless designs and embellishments, allowing you to find a perfect match for your saree. Juttis add a touch of ethnic charm and enhance the overall look, especially with silk or embroidered sarees.

5. Sandals

Sandals offer a range of styles, from simple and understated to elaborate and embellished. Choose sandals based on the saree's fabric and the occasion. Delicate sandals are perfect for lightweight sarees, while embellished sandals can enhance the look of a party saree.

6. Kolhapuris

Kolhapuris, traditional leather sandals from the Kolhapur region of India, are another stylish choice. Their unique design adds a rustic yet elegant touch. They pair well with cotton or silk sarees, adding a touch of ethnic flair to your outfit.

Choosing the Right Shoe Color

The color of your shoes plays a vital role in the overall look.

Matching: Matching your shoes to your saree's color is a classic and always stylish choice. It creates a cohesive and elegant look.
Complementary: Choosing a color that complements your saree can add a touch of contrast and visual interest. Use a color wheel to find complementary shades.
Neutral: Neutral-colored shoes, such as beige, nude, black, or silver, are versatile and can be paired with almost any saree.

Avoiding Fashion Faux Pas

Avoid clashing colors: Make sure your shoes don't clash with your saree or jewelry.
Consider the occasion: Choose shoes appropriate for the occasion – heels for a party and flats for a casual event.
Comfort is key: Don't sacrifice comfort for style. Choose shoes you can comfortably wear for the duration of the event.

Conclusion

The right shoes can make or break a saree look. By carefully considering the saree's fabric, the occasion, and your personal style, you can choose the perfect pair to complete your ensemble. Remember, the key is to find a balance between style and comfort. Experiment with different styles and colors to discover what works best for you and your saree collection. Now you're ready to confidently choose the perfect footwear for your next saree look!