India is a land of many languages, historic monuments, cuisines, and garments. The seventh largest country, it’s famous for the Taj Mahal, one of the eight wonders of the world and one of the oldest monuments in India. It’s no secret that the architectural influence of India’s historic places has had an effect on modern Indian fashion as well. The South-Asian country represents its culture through its exquisite fashion, including lots of hand embroidery work, luxurious fabrics, as well as bright and bold colors. The latest fashion trends in India keep its traditional look, but make subtle changes to indian dress design in order to cater to the younger, fresher crowd.
Types of Indian Fashion
Salwar Kameez
The salwar kameez consists of a top, bottom, and dupatta (scarf). Usually worn in Northern India, there are many types such as anarkali suits, punjabi suits, and churidar kameez. The anarkali suit, usually worn on special occasions, consists of a long top, pants, and a scarf. It first originated from the Mogulha era and was named after a courtesan in the court of the Mughal emperor, Akbar the Great. A much simpler, structured look, the churidar kameez is a straight cut top that is paired with fitted pants. It also originated from the Mughals and is worn in everyday wear. Loved for its comfort, the punjabi suit features a shorter kameez top and draped loose fit pants. It originated from the state of Punjab and can be worn on both special occasions and as everyday attire.
Saree
The saree is a long scarf, traditionally worn with all different styles of Indian fashion and draped using countless techniques. There are many ways to wear a saree, however the most common way is to be wrapped around the waist with the loose end draped over the shoulder. Sarees can be used as subtle ways to soften indian fashion looks, or done up in beautiful bold colors and trims to make a statement.
Lehenga Choli
Quite possibly the most popular modern day look in Indian fashion, the lehenga choli consists of a crop top, skirt, and scarf. It’s usually worn at parties and weddings. This style has been popularized by teenagers in the United States, influencing outfits seen at parties, proms, and the red carpet.
Indian fashion has made its way into the global fashion scene with its classic silhouettes, rich colors, and bold embellishments. It has influenced formal dress from countries all the way from Europe to America.