Indian Accessories

in India. It is also the traditional wear of the people in the countries like Afghanistan, Pakistan and Bangladesh of South East Asia. This dress is worn daily by both by men and women in all these countries. While men prefer to wear only white or very light color ordinary dress women’s salwar-kameez are made of various fabrics, in dark or light colors with exquisite designs and

models. From Punjab this style has spread to all other parts of India and this costume poses a threat to Sari for its comforts and easy movements of the limbs.

This costume consists of three parts, salwar the bottom wear, kameez the top wear and dupatta. Salwar, resembling loose pyjama-like trousers, has the legs wide at the top and narrow at the bottom. The legs are pleated or gathered into a waistband and a drawstring at the top of the waistband holds the salwar up. The salwar might be either wide and baggy or quite narrow on the bias. This narrow type is called a “Churidar”.

The kameez is like a long shirt or tunic, either very long stretching 1 foot below the knees or short just touching the knees. The side seams or chaak are open below the navel, giving more freedom to limbs. The kameez is cut straight and flat. Modern ladies opt for kameez having European-inspired set-in sleeves Ready made salwar or Punjabi suits in various types are available; but tailor- made after taking the correct measurements are long lasting and more attractive. Kameez are usually long, half or short sleeved or sleeveless. The material required to stitch a kameez is 2.5-3meters long depending upon the lengths of the kameez and the sleeves and 2mts for salwar.

Dupatta, a long scarf or shawl of thin material of length 2-2.25mts is a stylish accessory, worn over one or both shoulders or draped around the chest. North Indian Hindu women cover their heads with dupatta in temples or in the presence of elders.

Wearing salwar kameez as a bridal dress is speedily catching up in North India while South Indians follow their traditional costume, wearing bright colored decorated silk saris on the wedding day.

The bridal salwar kameez are made out of various fabrics and in lovely designs and colors. Generally bridal suits are stitched in silk and brocade material, having beautiful heavy embroidery on the suits with zardosi and zari works.

Lucknow chickankari salwar suits are very popular among ladies. But with the passage of time the styles chickankari and zardosi have attained new forms and looks. Presently Patiala styles of salwar kameez are in great demand. These suits have several gathers and drapes in a stylish mould presenting even hip to ankle folds.

Ladies in expensive and colorful salwar kameez are a common sight during wedding and festive occasions. Sangeet ceremony and the mehendi ceremony are some of the special moments when ladies are seen in this outfit. The styles of salwar kameez have evolved as the time passed; like salwars from baggies to straight trousers and bell bottom styles.

The current trend is short kurtas and broad salwar, very much in fashion. The ultra modern suit, comprising short kurta or kurti, churidar and two scarves also look very elegant and fashionable. Rust brown, shades of red and yellow are considered as the auspicious colors of the costumes worn by an Indian bride. So it is only natural that salwar suits are made out of materials in any one of these colors.

The bridal suit will not be complete without a matching dupatta having golden embroidery, draped over the bride’s head decorated with precious jewelry. A bride in this costume will look gorgeous and enchanting with added accessories such as a bindi on the forehead, diamond nose rings and ear rings, exquisite pearl necklace around her neck, stone-studded bangles on her wrist and cute pretty anklets and toe rings on the feet. Her hands and feet get beautiful patterns with the application of mehendi powder which gives an orange reddish color to them.

Fashion designers use various suit fabrics to make salwar kameez suits ranging from cotton to

chiffon, georgette, velvet and silk brocade. Other suit fabric materials like satin and synthetic also find a favorite place among fashion designers. Choice of fabric material mainly depends upon certain factors such as the season, the person’s comfort level and price difference. But the most important reason is the purpose of your shopping. The most popular fabrics that have created waves are as follow.

Cotton is considered to be the best suited fabric for summer season for its cool and airy nature. Cotton suits are too comfortable to wear in summer without much problems and it has a special elegant look. And also cotton fabrics are crisp and skinfrienly. The cost of cotton suits differ depending on the texture of the material. .
The thin fabric Crepe is of two types namely the hard finished Crepe and soft Crepe. While the hard finished crepe is crisp the soft one is wavy. This fabric, available in fascinating colors, finds an important place in the making of Bridal trousseau and wedding salwar kameez. The price of this variety depends upon the material and the embroidery and the zari works done on it. A bride will look at her best in this attire. This is very much suited for an evening party wear.

Georgette is another graceful fabric which is very lightweight and so it is very easy to carry. This fabric is usually made up of silk thread of eye catching colors. The georgette suits are ideal for birthdays and anniversary days. The cost varies according to the works done on the garment.

Chiffon represents a symbol of firmness. It is a very fine fabric and is very suitable for the bold ladies. Chiffon suit could be worn on any special occasion and clings to the body very well.

Velvet is a type of material ideal for its soft mushy touch. Velvet is a heavy fabric and acts very much like a winter wear giving the much needed warm feeling to the person wearing it. As in any other case the cost differs.

Silk fabric suit, otherwise known as evergreen suit, has that shine and glamour that’s essential for any type of party. As this fabric is too soft, it is very easy to carry. But one thing; it needs proper maintenance and care. Needless to say the suits made out of this fabric are high priced.

Satin is available in various dark and light colors. It has a very smooth touch even though it is medium weight. Satin suit is suitable for any occasion. Salwar kameez made out of this glossy fabric is a bit costly.

Here comes the last, but not the least, Synthetic suit. This can be considered as the poor man’s garment since it is available at affordable rates. The colorful salwar suits made out of this fabric with lovely designs on them are easily washable and long lasting. It does not require pressing or a light pressing is sufficient. It is one of the every day casual wears.
INDIAN DUPATTA

Indian Dupatta is an unavoidable accessory along with salwar kameez. Indian fashion dupatta can not be considered as a traditional wear any more since it has found a place in the arena of fashion world. Dupatta is known by different names like Chunni, Chunari and Odhni. North Indian ladies drape this attire over their heads while they go to temples to offer prayers. But it is not a custom among South Indians. Even today rural women cover their head with a shawl called chunaria showing respect towards elders. The main advantage of Dupatta is that it can fit well with most of the wardrobes, irrespective of classic ethnic or trendy Indo western style. Actually ethnic costumes will never be complete without a dupatta.

The role of a Dupatta is to add grace to the garment. They are available in all bright and radiant colors. They look more attractive with beautiful beads and mirror work on them. When the word Dupattas is mentioned the first name that enters our mind is Lal Dupattas of Rajasthan. These Rajasthani dupattas, red in color, are simply enchanting especially when worn on white color salwar suits. The elegant tie and die prints, known as Laharia provide the magic charm to the Lal Dupattas. Bridal dupattas are too expensive having embroidery works done on them using golden threads. Dupattas worn on religious functions and very special occasions are also costly.

Usually readymade salwar sets include a matching dupatta also. Suit material available for stitching also has a matching dupatta attached to it. In addition several textile shops separately sell dupattas in various fabrics like thin cotton, silk, crepe, georgette, nylon etc with or without prints and designs.

Draping styles of dupatta have evolved paving ways for new fashion trends. Many ladies drape the dupatta over both shoulders with the central portion covering the chest. Some will fold it neatly lengthwise and attire it only on one shoulder. Modern stylish ladies let their gorgeous dupattas hang around their arms.

Mumbai, the commercial capital of India, also the hub of fashion creates some innovations in salwar suit variety frequently. Even though styles change the trendy comfortable Indian woman’s costume Salwar Kameez remains as it is. There are innumerable beautiful salwar kameez pattern available from Casual Salwar Kameez to Churidar Salwar, Punjabi suit, Afghani style, Pakistani style, Custom Salwar and the hot and trendy Indo western suits. Designer kameez salwar is in high demand by women belonging to all ethnicities and age groups.

Fashion designers innovates new designs and patterns using various combinations of silk or cotton threads. Churidar salwar is long and tight with many folds on the lower calf. This type fits very well with slim and trim figure. For fatter women we get custom or specially tailored suits. Chikankari, Zardosi, Bandhej, Phulkari, beaded sequins, mirror work and block cum handprints are always popular among ladies.

The Indo Western includes distinct elegant styles like trouser suits, sleeveless top style kameez having long slits and deep cuts. Young modern girls generally choose Indo western style with a touch of Indian tradition. Silk Kurtas (short kameez) in pastel shades have a fabulous cool and stylish look. Latest fashion craze is short Kurta/kurti with a loose Patiala style, a Punjab origin..
Both salwars and churidars along with the familiar tops kurta or kameez provide a unique comfort and style. The salwar kameez is a very decent dress and gives far more mobility to the limbs than the skirt or the sari. One can walk fast, bicycle, even run a 100-metre race in it.

The salwar is a favorite among the younger generation, as it is easy to wear. As salwar Kameez is not a clinging type it keeps our body cool on sweltering summer days.
Salwar Kameez is a suitable wear for all occasions and is very graceful lending an aura of feminine charm to the wearer. Salwar suit started in Kashmir and Punjab as a viable alternative dress form and gained popularity in India and Muslim world, especially among teens and youths. This costume’s ability to combine contemporary and traditional styles effortlessly could be the reason for its tremendous hit.

Kurta/Kurti is, without any doubt, a traditional costume originated in India. It is similar to a long shirt stretching up to the knees. Kurta could be an ideal top for jeans, trousers, salwars, or a pajama which should match and compliment well with the kurta in style and color. Kurtas also fit well with all regular Western bottom wears. These are suitable for extremely unique works like embroidery, stones, beads mirror etc…They are available in different lengths, sizes, designs and fabrics.

Long as well as short kurtis are the latest craze among fashionable young Indian women. Some are enchanting with fine unique embroidery work in pretty designs on them. Due to its smart look ladies love to wear it for a casual family get-together in the lounge or simply to participate in an afternoon tea with their friends outside in a park or a garden.

Women’s Kurtas come in all types, either casual or dressy, printed or embellished and in various fabrics like cotton, crepe, georgette, silk etc with full, 3/4th or short sleeves or without sleeves and in all sizes. Indian kurtas are available in all bright and pastel colors such as bright blues, rich maroons, elegant white and cool creams.

Cotton kurtas, available in many colors and styles with embroidery or beads, sequin and mirror works on them, are too comfortable to wear in summer and winter. Cotton kurtis are suited to wear over jeans, skirts and capris. Printed kurtis, made out of fabrics like cotton, crepe, georgette, silk etc could be paired with formal pants and skirts. These are essentially any party wears with attractive embroidery, mirror, beads, zari, stones or sequin works on them.

Hand-crafted Indian kurtas are very comfortable and convenient for all seasons, especially during summer and winter. They look beautiful and radiant with varying textures and shades. Teens and young ladies look wonderful and fabulous in an elegant kurti worn over jeans. The main advantage of this costume is, in it, one can do brisk walking, cycling and even sprints.

Several advantages contribute to the reasons for salwar kameez to gain such a tremendous popularity among Indian and Non-Indian women. The main advantages of salwar kameez over other Indian garments are as follows:

Salwar kameez is good for all sizes of women and looks great on all body types and shapes. No matter, whether you are a little fat or an over-sized woman, a small size demure one or an average size woman the salwar suits will give you an elegant look and you will feel great.

Readymade salwar suits are available from extra small to 5 extra large sizes. Tailors are also experts in stitching suits with the correct measurement of each figure, either big or small.

Salwar kameez provides a feeling of comfort and security. This costume will not hinder your movements since you can walk without the fear that something undesirable might pop out or hang out at any moment. In salwar suit you need not sacrifice your modesty or comfort. This wonderful suit combines both comfort and grace with the latest fashion styles.

Salwar Kameez come in limitless styles and patterns; different styles such as Parallel/Trouser style salwar suits having a short Kurta style top, churidar style salwar kameez, pajami and afghani style salwar kameez and traditional style salwar kameez with countless variations.

In addition to that, you can see innumerable varieties of embroidery and design enhancements. Thus salwar kameez automatically becomes the ideal limitless in design variation and above all in style.

Salwar Kameez is less costly than many other clothing. It is true that salwar kameez are available in every budget. Even formal salwar kameez are cheaper than western formal wears.

If you purchase a dress from a reputed shop its beauty will last longer.Salwar kameez can go anywhere such as to formal or semi formal events, working places, colleges, any parties or dinners, or just out for shopping. Interestingly, a single salwar suit can play many roles just adding some dressy accessories like jewelry or shoes. To say least, buying a salwar suit is not a waste in any way.

alwar kameez is easy to wear, easy to wash and easy to press and so it is the “EASIEST COSTUME”.

The Lehenga, the Indian and Pakistani women’s traditional costume resembles a gypsy skirt with a voluminous flare. The lehenga is usually worn along with a short tight fitting top known as a choli or bodice designed to be mid-riff bearing. The choli commonly features short sleeves and a low neck. Many western ladies wear this Indian choli; especially belly dancers include this as a part of their costume.

Now the lehenga-choli is a common attire in parts of Rajasthan and Gujarat in India. Its ability to bring out the grace and feminity perfectly has made it a popular wear all over India. This traditional costume has become a part of the wedding trousseau and any party or other occasional wear.

International fashion designers, charmed by its graceful appeal, have added tones and cuts to this lovely garment.

The lehenga-choli, heavily decorated with intricate embroidery using vibrant colored zari or gold threads is a much sought after bridal outfit among Indian women. Other embellishments like fancy appliqués, mirror or shisha work, gems or sparkling gems enhance its grace and beauty. The bridal lehenga choli is available in the traditional maroon or red and also in more vibrant colors and color combinations.

Another accessory associated with lehenga choli is dupatta, equally embellished to match the attire. The borders of the dupatta are more ornate and complement the borders or patterns of the whole outfit.

Lehengas for the occasional or party wear are also designed in several colors and fabrics with enchanting embroidery and other embellishments. The modern and latest forms feature thin narrow cuts and a perfect drape to enhance its attraction.

For casual wear simple cheaper lehengas with printed, plain or lightly decorated designs are available. In fact, this lehenga choli has found an indispensable place in the international market. The latest version of this attire includes both the traditional ethnicity and the modern nuances in a subtle manner and it is the foremost and favorite choice of the modern ladies.

Lengha Choli, otherwise known as lehnga, langa or lengha, has a beautiful history in India. When the Mughals invaded India in early BC, they brought this pretty skirt and blouse with them. This attire has usually hand-decorated traditional embroidery works such as zardosi and soonf. This style could be way back in the 4th cent BC In the peak of Indian royalty, real gold, silver and expensive stones were used to make these legendary designs. Even now, designers try their best to keep up the tradition by hand decorating these garments. Perhaps modern bride is more likely to opt for a lehnga choli on her wedding day than a bridal sari because of the heavy weight of the sari.

Lehanga Cholis are now sold in pleasing styles such as embroidered lehanga, Tie and Die, Customized Lehanga Choli, Sharara, Garara, Lancha and Indian Wedding Lehanga. Customized Lehanga gives the perfect fit one desires. Gujarati invention tie-dye prints with mirror work are popular among young ladies. This lehanga includes a matching shining Dupatta. Traditional Lehanga is fit for all parties. Designer Lehanga collection combines silk and cotton threads on rich fabrics producing unique patterns. Chikan embroidery has always been a favorite. Sharara gets a western look with a waist long top/blouse and flairy pants and is worn with a long pretty chunnri.. Indian wedding Lehanga is decorated heavily with gold, silver and other precious stones.

Chaniya Choli originated in Kutch, Gujarat and Rajasthan is popular in the west and north of India. South Indians are familiar with another version called pavade. Fabrics used for making chaniya-cholis are cotton, silk, khadi and at times chiffon. Ghagra Choli includes long pleated skirts Ghaghra or Lengha, and twin blouses. The colorful blouses have extensive mirror and patch work on them and are designed to leave the back and midriff bare. Zardosi Lengha, the traditional wear since Mughal time, comes in different styles and is made up of a comfortable fabric. It is suitable for festivals or other celebrations. Bridal Lengha has lasting values and rich craftsmanship. In addition to wedding, Bridal Lengha are worn at beauty contests at national and international level.

The beautiful lehngas are suitable to women of all shapes and sizes and available for small, medium, large and over-sized ladies. Women belonging to any age group love to wear lehnga choli for formal as well as dress occasions. Women always express a correct judgment regarding fashion choice which has a history of 1000 years. This fashionable wear of Rajasthan is reminiscent of our old tribal designs. Today lehnga choli is gathering admiration from people all over. Like old wine in new bottle, the same old stuff is brought back in an ultra modern style retaining the touch of Indian culture.

When you have decided to buy a lehenga choli you should be aware of certain lehenga buying tips that will guide you to select the right one that will make you the centre of attraction in any occasion. For a slim trim figure a lehenga suit with lovely patterns and a deep-cut neck would be an ideal choice enhancing your feminism. Lehangas made out of fabrics such as raw silk, organza of Benaras or crepe will highlight your flawless figure. Bold ladies may go for cholis with deep backlines or thin straps or one shoulder sleeve. Too thin ladies say a big NO to long choli.
Women having broad shoulders, deep-necked, not wide neck, Ghaghra is the perfect choice. Jeweled necklines are not advisable for busty ladies. Select a long lehenga with small prints of flowers and leaves. Fatty ladies without proper bust or shape chose an A-line lehenga of crepe or georgette with extensively embroidered cholis.

Short ladies look out for lehenga choli with vertical prints and U or square neck to give a taller appearance. Avoid short sleeves and sleeveless cholis and heavy work or heavy fabric Dupatta should flow from the shoulder to the knee to disguise the shortness. For women with large waist kurti style choli in deep bright colors will fit well. Sophisticated prints are preferable to complicated designs. Plump figures might select a long length choli having a deep neck so that a bit of cleavage is seen. Now decide on your fashion style suitable to your figure.

Modern bride prefers to wear a light Lehnga Choli on her wedding day rather than a heavy sari as her bridal costume. These lehengas are extremely beautiful and usually decorated by hand in the traditional designs of India. Modern young brides in North India, especially in Rajasthan and Gujarat favor a soft radiant glittering lehenga suit on the wedding day. The winds of Westernization have led to the blending of tradition and modernity in the lehenga too; whether it is the color, embellishments, fabric or the design of the lehenga. The lehnga has evolved to suit the convenience of women. The ends of the waist fabric were stitched and its narrow width was increased by adding more pleats on the waist, portion to make their mobility easier.

Lehenga choli represents the traditional Rajasthan and Gujarat style of embroidery. The traditional lehengas were decorated with motifs and embroidered with Zardosi in royal karkhanas for ceremonies. The rich red color is symbolic of festivity and fertility. Rich red, maroon and majenta were the colors of bridal lehenga. But today’s brides go for off-beat colors like mauves, onion pinks, lime greens, peaches, mustards and blues Bright colors like reds, gold and oranges have made a resurgence now, maroon being the all time favorite.

A beautiful lehenga with a short tight-fitted choli and a matching dupatta brings a soft charm to a bride. The outfit is embroidered in silver threads with fine zardozi borders and ‘butis’. The wide, rich border of the lehenga is stylized with plant and geometric patterns. Ari and zardozi work along with the auspicious coloring of the attire are responsible for the rich gold glow. These specially designed and crafted lehengas make the bride the cynosure of that function and give a special look to her.

Traditional bridal fabrics, silks and crepes, have given way to nets, satins, georgettes and sand tissue. Trendy lehengas have changed to fish cuts, A-lines and side slits. Long cholis with high necklines have been replaced by short-strapped tops with plunging necklines and embroidered blouses.