Sharara suits have long been a mainstay in Indian ethnic fashion. Boasting flared pants and long, flowing kurtas, they encapsulate both traditional style and contemporary chic - an indispensable combination as we approach wedding season! When selecting wedding attire, shararas provide brides with elegance, grace, and understated glamour that any bride can rely upon!
The Origins of the Sharara
Sharara suits have been linked with Indian fashion, their origin lies in the Middle East. The name "sharara" derives from the Arabic word meaning "something that flows." Initially worn as evening garments, sharara suits traditionally featured loose pants with exaggerated legs that billowed around ankles; later being combined with figure hugging tops embellished with intricate embroidery or sequins to form an evening ensemble.
As the sharara migrated to South Asia, Indian designers transformed the look into a more modest three-piece outfit. The pants became less voluminous, while the kurta took on decorative accents like gota patti embroidery. Indian shararas also incorporated dupattas or long veils draped over one shoulder. This fusion of Middle Eastern silhouette and South Asian ornamentation produced the modern sharara suit so beloved today.
The Allure of the Sharara
So what exactly makes shararas so irresistibly elegant? The beauty lies in both the cut and movement of the pants. While less exaggerated than their Middle Eastern ancestors, Indian shararas still flare gracefully from the knees down. Strategic gathers or pleats at the waist accentuate the flare and create an eye-catching silhouette.
Sharara pants come in two main styles. Churidar shararas are form-fitting from waist to knee, similar to leggings. Flared shararas incorporate the flair from the waist down. While churidars highlight a woman's curves, flared shararas have a more breezy, floating effect.
Beyond the striking pants, the kurta top also adds to the sharara's allure. Typically floor length, the kurta contrasts the fitted waist of the pants with its loose-fitting shape. Designers often embellish sharara kurtas using intricate embroidery, mirrorwork, cutwork, or threadwork. Beaded necklines and hemlines elevate the glamour.
The pièce de résistance comes from the gossamer dupatta trailing behind the outfit. Sheer and delicate, the dupatta softens the look and creates drama with every movement. As an alternative, brides can choose stiffer brocade dupattas that offer their own opulent statement.
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Shararas for All Occasions
While shararas shine brightest at weddings, their versatility allows them to suit any special event. For grand occasions like receptions, opt for heavily embellished options made of rich fabrics like silk, velvet or brocade. Intricate zardozi work and hand embroidery will make the ideal impression. Pull inspiration from Bollywood celebrities known for their show-stopping looks.
For smaller celebrations like engagement parties, try shararas with lighter embellishments like sequins or mirrorwork. Pastel colors also lend themselves well to more intimate events. For the modern woman, many designers now offer fusion shararas that combine pants or crop tops with traditional flared skirts.
Even outside special events, shararas double as elegant evening wear. Try a simple churidar set paired with a cropped jacket. For a fusion look, style sharara pants with a fitted blouse or tank top. Top it off with a scarf instead of a dupatta. Shararas work for mehndi and haldi ceremonies too – just opt for styles in colorful hues with minimal decoration.
Tips for Styling Shararas
When styling shararas, some key considerations can take your look to the next level. First, pay attention to fabric choice. Rich fabrics like velvet, silk and brocade drape beautifully and hold embellishments well. Chiffon and georgette offer lightweight, flowy alternatives.
Next, focus on the embellishments. As shararas suit more formal events, don’t shy away from heavy hand embroidery, intricate beadwork, or lavish appliqués. Placement of embellishments also matters – highlighted necklines, hemlines, waistlines and dupattas create visual interest.
Color choice should also be carefully considered at wedding events. Classic red is always a standout, while royal blues and greens exemplify bridal elegance. Pastels or neon brights add fun, modern touches. Don’t forget to color coordinate dupattas with kurtas.
Finally, mind the details. Hairstyles that show off dupatta drapes prove key. Opt for loose waves or an updo with dangling earrings. Strappy heels help balance the sharara’s volume while jhumkas add the perfect final grace note.
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