Did you know that the Shalwar Kameez, worn for centuries, was invented in India? It quickly spread to other parts of Asia. The ensemble then spread across Europe, where people began adapting the style with their traditions. Eventually, the Shalwar Kameez became known as “the” traditional Indian dress code. The Shalwar Kameez is an elegant combination of soothing colours such as blue or white and sleek lines. Wearing this garment provides a sense of comfort and style at any event!
Shalwar Kameez and its Arab connection
The traditional Arab dress for both men and women consists of a simple tunic. This garment is known in some parts as an “unfitted blouse”. The word kameez also refers to this type of clothing, which can be worn with many different types of skirts underneath it. These are called fallabas. Other countries like Turkey had significant impacts on South Asia. They largely influenced shalwar (Ottoman style trousers) when the empire ruled over much territory centuries ago. Today we call those outfits, Alvars.
The 500-year Ottoman rule throughout the Arab world resulted in a blending of garment forms.
The adoption of buttoned vests, jackets decorated with embroidery and loose-fitting trousers is proof that such borrowing has taken place within dresses worn by those living there today.
The clothing of Indian women has been changing for centuries. Before the 12th century, the Muslims conquered north and central India. The apparel till then consisted primarily of various draped garments. Types of Shalwar Kameez
The Shalwar Kameez has been popular for both men and women in the northern regions of India. However, many variations have developed over time. Each style is unique and different from the rest.
Patiala suit
The Patiala suit is more than just a dress; it’s an outfit! The Shalwar Kameez consists of very baggy slacks. They are stitched in pleats and worn with a gorgeous cowl effect at the back. It requires double the length, material because of this unique feature, but what makes everything worthwhile?
The Royal Style of Maharaja Karam Singh, and other royals from Patiala in Punjab, India, during 1813-45, represented the era of rich dressing. Their style consisted of wearing fabrics paired with diamond necklaces. The men wore Shalwar Kameezes a lot more than the women during this period.
The Shalwar Kameez is a traditional Indian dress that has been worn for centuries. The loose and comfortable fabric makes it popular with women in Punjab because of the hot climate, but now this style can be found all over India as well!
Churidar
The Churidar Shalwar is the refined version of the Shalwar Kameez.” The shalwar is tight fitted, narrow and wrinkles down at your ankles. It exposes how it fits tightly around you. Churidars are best worn, with dresses like kameezes alongside dupattas, for that perfect finishing touch!
Printed suits
The the printed suits for ladies are a style of Shalwar Kameez, which is popular in the Indian subcontinent. The apparel is made from fabric and digitally or mechanically printed with patterned designs and colors. Fashion designers love it as they can play around with it creatively. The printed designs and materials such as georgette, crepe fabric, cotton, and chiffon are the most popular. The Printed Designs tend to give a more casual look than other types for specific occasions.
Anarkali dress
The Anarkali style of Shalwar Kameez, also known as the Anarkali dress, derives its name after a famed court dancer. She used to perform in the royal courts of the then Mughal Emperor Jahangir in India. The beauty of a woman who is adorned with her natural beauty is unmatched. The Anarkali suit gives off an effortless, feminine vibe and looks gorgeous on anyone who wears it.
Sharara dress
The Sharara Suits are a beautiful variation of the Shalwar Kameez dress. It consists of an elegant, straight fitted garment with flare out legs. They almost resemble the traditional lehengas from India’s ancient civilization-the Gupta Empire ( fourth century AD). The skirt has been popularised in Bollywood movies, mostly in recent years. The Sharara pants embellished with sequins, stones & beads look stunning!
Gharara set
The Gharara dresses are a traditional outfit of Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh.
While it originates in India, this clothing style has gained immense popularity all over South Asia and even further abroad. The Gharara suits are light on the body yet warm!
Balochi dress
For many years, the people of Baluchistan have worn rich clothing. This traditional Balochi style is popular with people in Pakistan, in cities like Karachi and Islamabad. The fabrics are handwoven and dyed with colouring pigments sourced locally in smaller towns.
The kameez from this region have exquisite embroidery done with silk threads. This particular style creates beautiful designs and colour combinations not seen anywhere else in the world!
Peshwari dress
The traditional dress includes the Peshawari Shalwar, a trouser having an unusually wide waistband but narrow into a cuffed hem. This style of clothing has been prevalent in South Asia for centuries. The Peshawari Shalwar is not just an epitome of Indian or Pakistani tradition, but rather one shared by people all over this region!
Summary
Shalwar Kameez is a traditional garment worn in India and has been around for centuries. Despite modern-day modifications, this timeless design will always be relevant. The Shalwar Kameez is highly versatile and can easily transition into different eras with ease while still maintaining its respectful heritage on top! It will never go out of style!