Indian women and the sari have always been a longstanding affair. This is definitely the most sensual and glamorous outfit that has gone through various modifications along the way. For those who are not really acquainted with a sari, this is a long strip of cloth that is always worn with a top or blouse (choli). This garment can be patterned, plain, having detailed embroidery to almost sheer in its material. This long strip of cloth has varying length of four to nine meters. One end of the sari is draped around the waist and the other is arranged over the shoulder. There are different ways of draping a sari as well, which would depend upon the state or upon the creativity of the person. The tops or the blouse is generally worn with short sleeves but due to the Indo western influence, many designs that incorporate halters and backless designs, are quite popular as well. (Though some fashionistas argue that halter and tube top designs actually originated in the ancient days of India itself and are not a product of western influences.)
Indian clothes also incorporate the Salwar Kameez, which is very popular amongst Indian women for the comfort and the versatility it offers. The Indian Salwar Kameez is a flowing dress and always has the three elements-the salwar, kurta and the dupatta. The styles of the Salwar Kameez also vary and today we can see variations in the fit, lengths of the kurtas, patterns and silhouettes as well. The Indo-western styles have an interesting mix with loads of detailed work as well. Bandhani, beaded sequins, block prints, chikankari are some of the most favorites. This is also called as a Punjabi suit because of its popularity in Punjab. The kameez is a tunic worn over the salwar that is baggy with folds or fitting as well. Chiffons, denim, silk, cotton, georgette etc are some of the fabrics that can be used for Salwar Kameez. Halter designs and designer backs have also been infused with the traditional structure of the Salwar Kameez.
Most Indian weddings can never be complete without the heavily embroidered or embellished saris, but another such popular garment in the Indian clothing is the Ghaghra Choli or the Lehenga Choli. Also known as the Sharara at times, this traditional dress was first introduced to India during the Mughal rule. The Ghaghra choli also consists of three elements- a long flowing skirt (Ghaghra), a fitting top also known as the choli and a dupatta. Sharara’s are mostly fitted till the knee area and flare towards the bottom half. When worn for weddings, these Sharara’s are heavily embroidered or embellished with various design elements. The dupatta has always been worn to cover the head but today there are various ways used to drape the dupatta, apart from the traditional ways. Bright and loud colors such as red, pink and even gold are very much in demand when it comes to bridal wear. The Lehenga Choli or the Ghaghra Choli also varies in its looks as per the areas or regions in India. These can be shimmering to heavily embellished garments and look grand when teamed with gold accessories and Kundan jewelry that completes the look. Because of the grandeur of such Indian clothing, these are mostly popular for weddings and other formal and typically Indian functions.
The traditional Indian clothing for men has always been the dhoti kurta. Even this ethnic attire has been a part of the Indo-western culture and has seen many modifications till date. Worn on an everyday basis in ancient India, the dhoti kurta was therefore considered as a part of casual wear for men. Today, it is a part of formal wear as well; due to the abundance of designer wear clothing in the market. The dhoti is a rectangular piece of cloth that is worn around the waist and legs. There are various styles of wearing the dhoti as well; this largely depends upon every state in India. Generally, it is folded around the waist and the top ends are tied in the front and the left and the right ends are tucked in the back. The dhoti is worn with a kurta, which is a long fitting garment on the lines of a shirt. The Dhoti Kurta is also worn with a dupatta for formal occasions. In South India, men sometimes fold the dhoti in half and tuck it into the waist so that it only reaches the knees, as it gets too cumbersome to manage.
The Sherwani is another such popular garment amongst Indian clothes. This resembles a coat and is also worn only during weddings and festive occasions. The Sherwani is worn by men although this is very heavily embroidered at times. This coat often fits the body snugly and is generally worn with a loose pant, churidar or even a dhoti. The origins of Sherwani at times it attributed to Central Asia. Donning a Sherwani is considered to be a mark of royalty and a symbol of status, since the ancient days.
As compared to all the outfits mentioned above, Indian clothing also includes the lungi which is perhaps the most simplest and easy-to-wear attire! This garment is worn around the waist and flows down to the ankles. Worn by men especially in South India, the lungi is now being worn by women as well. The modified and hip version of the lungi is called the sarong or wrap-around skirts that are available in varied lengths. Available in solid colors and zany prints as well, the lungi is a favorite amongst many, especially in areas that have a hot and humid climate. These are tied or fastened at the waist in various ways.
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