India is a vast country with many culturally and linguistically diverse regions, multiple religious communities and many thriving cosmopolitan centers. Thus, there is a great deal of variety even in India’s traditional clothing choices; each and every region utilizes unique techniques to create garments which represent their own culture and community.
There are many beautiful traditional dresses from India which are worn even today by women in their daily life and for special occasions. However, nowadays, these regional garments are no longer restricted in terms of appeal to their place of origin. Now that it is so easy to browse and buy ethnic wear online, women as well as men across the world can easily fill their wardrobe with authentic, traditional Indian dresses. Online shopping has, in this way, really given the Indian textile and embroidery industries a big boon.
1. Saree
It doesn’t get more elegant than the sari. Draped with the yards of flowing fabric, worn over a well-fitted blouse and petticoat, a woman can feel both sophisticated and beautifully feminine. It highlights the curves of the body and hides what needs to be hidden. The sari is also available in many beautiful types and varieties; this means women can wear it for almost any occasion.
2. Salwar Kameez
The salwar kameez is comfortable, versatile and extremely easy to wear. Essentially, it consists of a long tunic paired up with a loose pair of Indian trousers and a flowing scarf. It is the preferred daily and office wear garment for women who love ethnic fashion, mainly because of the effortless combination of comfort and style that it offers.
3. Lehenga Choli
This three piece outfit is worn across India for daily wear, but it is really the glamorous, designer versions that are considered the most fashionable. They come with interesting silhouettes for the skirt (lehenga), ranging from the classic, voluminous, circular cut to the sensual, modern mermaid cut. Designers also love incorporating modern cuts in the choli (upper wear blouse) such as deep v-cut, spaghetti straps, sleeve-less designs and cut back patterns.
4. Kurta/Kurti
When it comes to ethnic clothing, men as well women will find a plethora of amazing styles and varieties. The kurta and pyjama outfit is one the most traditional options. It is extremely versatile and can be worn for many different occasions, depending on the fabrics and designs used. A simple printed cotton kurta would be the ideal choice for a hot summer’s day, while a fine woven silk kurta with embroidery should typically be reserved for special occasions like festivals and weddings.
5. Sherwani
When it comes to special occasion ethnic clothing, men prefer the sherwani above all other outfits. This elegant, regal and sophisticated garment has become immensely popular in the last decade. Designers love to experiment with the silhouette, designs and fabrics of the sherwani and that is why there are many beautiful varieties to select from. Silk, brocade, velvet, georgette, crepe and even cotton are used to create these garments, as well as intricate Indian embroidery techniques such as resham, zari, ek taar, gota patti, cut dana and much more.