How to Rock a Retro Style Saree Like a Bollywood Diva

In an era where fast fashion dominates, there's something undeniably magnetic about the charm of retro fashion. And if you’re a saree lover, then the retro style saree is your ultimate ticket to vintage glam with a modern twist. Think winged eyeliner, bouffant hairstyles, and bold blouses—paired with the timeless elegance of the saree.

From Sharmila Tagore’s floral drapes to Zeenat Aman’s sizzling chiffon numbers, the retro look in saree is making a sizzling comeback in fashion circles—and we’re here for it.

So whether you're dressing for a retro Bollywood theme party, a festive event, or simply want to channel old-school charm in your everyday wardrobe, this guide will help you nail the perfect retro saree vibe.

 

 

What Defines a Retro Style Saree?

 

When we say retro, we're talking about fashion from the 1950s to the 1980s—the golden era of Bollywood. This was a time when sarees were:

 

• Printed and playful
  
  
• Bold and body-hugging
  
  
• Draped with drama and elegance

 

 

Key retro saree elements include:

 

• Polka dots, floral or geometric prints
  
  
• Bold borders and vibrant colors
  
  
• Puff-sleeved or halter-neck blouses
  
  
• Statement accessories like cat-eye sunglasses, chokers, and hairbands
  
  

Whether you’re channeling Mumtaz’s iconic orange saree in Brahmachari or the elegant silks worn by Rekha, the retro theme saree look is all about attitude, sass, and style.

 

 

Why Retro Sarees Are Back in Trend

 

Fashion is cyclical—and nothing proves this more than the raging comeback of retro sarees in Gen Z and millennial wardrobes. Here’s why they’re hotter than ever:

 

1. Nostalgia Meets Glamour

 

Retro looks instantly remind us of the golden Bollywood era. They’re fun, familiar, and yet fabulous. It’s heritage wrapped in haute couture.

 

2. Perfect for Themed Parties & Events

 

Got a retro or Bollywood-themed party? A retro style saree is your best bet to steal the spotlight without trying too hard.

 

3. Creative Freedom

 

There are no rules—mix prints, try unconventional blouse cuts, experiment with hairstyles. The retro look gives you room to play.

 

 

Iconic Bollywood Retro Style Sarees You Can Recreate

 

 

🔶 Mumtaz in Orange (Brahmachari, 1968)

 

 

The pre-stitched, tight-fitting drape with a short pallu redefined sensuality. Perfect for cocktail parties or retro dance nights.

 

Get the look:

 

• Fitted saree with pleats stitched in
  
  
• Strapless or sleeveless blouse
  
  
• Bouffant ponytail with a ribbon
  
  
• Dangling earrings and bold liner
  
  

Rekha in Kanjeevaram Silks

 

 

Nobody owns the retro saree aesthetic quite like Rekha. Her rich silk sarees, bold lips, and gajra-draped buns are iconic.

 

Get the look:

 

• Gold or deep-hued silk saree
  
  
• Long-sleeve brocade blouse
  
  
• Traditional jewellery with a bindi
  
  
• Gajra, sindoor, and red lipstick
  
  

Zeenat Aman in Chiffon Sarees

 

 

Soft pastels, sheer fabrics, and glam vibes—Zeenat was the queen of effortless retro glam.

 

Get the look:

 

 

• Chiffon saree in mint, peach or powder blue
  
  
• Halter or backless blouse
  
  
• Smoky eyes with nude lips
  
  
• Retro curls or layered blow-dry
  
  

 

 

Top Retro Theme Saree Styles to Try

 

 

Floral Print Sarees

 

 

Soft, feminine, and flirty—floral sarees were a 70s staple.

 

Style tips:

 

• Choose large flower motifs
  
  
• Pair with contrast plain blouse
  
  
• Add a single strand pearl necklace
  
  

 

Whether it’s chiffon or crepe, this style brings freshness and nostalgia in one frame.

 

 

Bold Border Sarees

 

 

 

Inspired by Hema Malini and Sridevi, these sarees feature thick, shiny borders and are great for festive wear.

 

How to style:

 

• Boat neck blouse with elbow sleeves
  
  
• Bouncy retro waves or bun
  
  
• Big jhumkas and metallic bangles
  
  

 

 

Monochrome Magic

 

 

Many Bollywood actresses rocked black & white sarees on-screen. The trick here is contrast.

 

Style tip:

 

• Black saree with white blouse or vice versa
  
  
• Winged eyeliner and a sleek bun
  
  
• Retro-style earrings and sling bag
  
  

 

 

Color-Blocked Sarees

 

 

Color blocking was big in the 80s. Think Rekha’s dramatic color pairings or Neetu Singh’s disco era vibe.

 

Pro tip:

 

• Choose dual-tone sarees with sharp contrast
  
  
• Belted drape for modern-retro fusion
  
  
• Metallic heels to finish it off
  
  

 

 

Accessories to Nail the Retro Saree Look

 

To ace the retro look in saree, your accessories need to speak the same language as your drape.

 

• Hair: Bouffants, buns, big curls, or side ponytails
  
  
• Makeup: Matte base, winged eyeliner, red/maroon lips
  
  
• Jewelry: Chunky chokers, long beads, or oxidized pieces
  
  
• Sunglasses: Oversized or cat-eye retro shades
  
  
• Shoes: Peep-toes, platforms, or juttis
  
  

Don’t forget to add a bindi—an absolute must-have for that desi vintage flair.

 

 

Fabrics That Work Best for Retro Sarees

 

When planning your retro theme saree, fabric plays a huge role in achieving the right look and feel:

 

 

 

Where to Wear a Retro Saree Look

 

You don’t need a red carpet to pull off the Bollywood retro style saree. Try it for:

 

• 🥳 Retro Bollywood Theme Parties
  
  
• 🕯️ Festivals like Karva Chauth, Diwali, Durga Puja
  
  
• 💼 Office Theme Days or Cultural Events
  
  
• 💃 Cocktail Nights or Girls' Get-Togethers
  
  
• 📸 Fashion Photoshoots or Instagram Reels
  
  

 

 

💬 Final Word: Retro is the New Sexy

 

The retro saree isn’t just a costume. It’s a celebration of timeless beauty, unapologetic femininity, and bold individuality. Whether you’re inspired by Bollywood goddesses or your own nostalgia, wearing a retro style saree is about bringing the best of the past into your present.

So go ahead—twist your hair, swipe on that red lipstick, and drape yourself in vintage glam. The saree’s got your back, and the spotlight is waiting.