India is home to a rich tradition of ethnic clothing that reflects its cultural diversity, from elegant saris to vibrant lehengas - Indian women's wear is renowned for making an impressionable fashion statement while remaining rooted to tradition. Indian fashion has made an impactful statement globally and there has been growing appreciation of its craftsmanship and textile heritage; this blog post examines some options of Indian ethnic wear available today that combine custom with contemporary designs.
Salwar Kameez - Versatile Indian Staple
The salwar kameez, also known as salwar suit, is one of the most popular Indian ethnic garments and is worn by women across India. It consists of a kameez (tunic top) paired with salwar (loose pants) that tapers at the ankle. An optional dupatta (long scarf) is often included to complete this ensemble.
Fabric and Style Options - Salwar kameez can come in an assortment of fabrics, cuts and embellishments. From basic cottons to luxurious silks or flowing georgettes - and contemporary styles such as anarkali suits feature long, flowing kameezs while patiala salwars sport signature gathered effect waistbands.
Designer Touches - Many Indian designers are taking an innovative approach to modernizing the classic salwar kameez design, adding unique flourishes such as hand embroidery, zardozi work, cutwork threadwork and mirrorwork adornment on contemporary designs. Contrast piping lace trims and backless necklines also add flair.
The Saree - Queen of Indian Ethnicity
Saree, the quintessential Indian clothing item, is a 6-yard wonder that can be draped in dozens of ways. Its versatility and elegant drape make it a perennial favorite.
Regional Variations - From the lightweight Coimbatore cottons of South India to the rich Banarasi silks of the North, sarees vary as per regional textile traditions. Gujarati patola sarees feature ornate resist-dyed designs while Kanchipuram silks from Tamil Nadu use gold zari threads.
Modern Twists - Contemporary fashion designers are taking the saree into realms beyond tradition. Sarees with pre-stitched pleats, pant-style sarees, reversible sarees and even sarees with pockets demonstrate some innovations.
Draping Styles - From traditional drapes like the Nivi, where one end covers the shoulder, to trendy pre-pleated styles, there are various ways the saree pallu can be arranged. Half-saris are worn with pants or skirts.
Lehengas - Making a Floral Statement
The lehenga choli is the darling of Indian ethnic fashion, seen at weddings, festivals and red carpet events.
The Flared Skirt - The flare of the lehenga skirt is what makes it so eye-catching and feminine. A-line lehengas are gathered at the waist while circular lehengas have an umbrella flare. Fishtail lehengas are narrow at the top and wider at the bottom.
Embroidered Fabrics - Lehengas may feature delicate hand embroidery with threads of silver and gold, beads, sequins and mirrors. Floral patterns as well as traditional Indian motifs are popular options. Banarasi brocade lehengas interweave zari threads with the base fabric.
Styling Tips - Lehengas are usually worn with a choli (fitted blouse) and dupatta. Closed-neck cholis are making way for off-shoulder and halter-neck blouses. Dupattas may be draped over one shoulder or even styled as veils.
Kurtis - Comfort with Ethnic Charm
Kurtis and kurtas have become a wardrobe staple, straddling the line between Indian and Western wear. The short kurtis, in particular, have gained mainstream popularity.
Cotton and Chikankari - Lightweight cotton, ideal for warm weather, is the base for many kurtis. Chikankari kurtis from Lucknow feature delicate white embroidery on the yoke and sleeves.
Contemporary Cuts - Straight-fit, A-line, asymmetrical hemlines...the modern kurti silhouette is a far cry from the traditional voluminous kurta. Pairing them with jeans, palazzos or skirts lends a fusion edge.
Premium Designer Wear - Manish Malhotra, Sabyasachi, Ritu Kumar, and other designers have luxury pret-a-porter kurti lines. Intricate hand embroidery and exotic fabrics take these kurtis to couture level.
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