Indian Accessories

Indian sari fabrics are different and distinctive. Important fabrics used for Indian saris are cotton,

crepe, georgette, silk, and chiffon. Cotton sari is light in weight and very cool to wear in summer. Cotton sari is easy to wash and iron. Different colors make cotton saris exciting and preferable to all. It could be worn on festival days as well as a daily wear. .

Georgette sari is a traditional wear, usually made up of nylon and polyester yarn and is the most graceful fabric. It will add the charm and beauty of the lady if properly draped. As the texture is very soft and delicate it is comfortable to wear. It is a party as well as festive wear which has the most intricate designs. Zardozi or embroidery work will enhance the look of georgette fabric.

Saris, made out of Chiffon fabric, are a symbol of elegance and firmness making it an ideal choice for daily as well as evening wear. Chiffon is a very fine fabric found in nylon and silk. Various prints and embroideries such as block prints, bandhni style, resham work and gold embroidery give these saris a unique fabulous and enchanting look. It is a bit difficult to carry as it is bumpy.

.Crepe fabric’s attraction lies in its simplicity and sobriety and crepe is a fine light fabric originally woven in silk, but now woven in other fabrics also. Crepe saris are suitable for many occasions like wedding, any get together, parties etc. Various colors and designs make crepe saris exciting. . The printed crepe saris, and crepe saris with resham and gold metallic embroidery works increase the beauty of a lady.

Silk, a precious gift of nature and an evergreen fashion fabric is used to make exquisite and gorgeous silk saris, ranging from Kanjeevaram to Banarasi, Patola and Mysore silk. Since silk requires extra care steam press is recommended. Silk saris having zari work on them are very high in demand. Silk saris are the most exotic, sensual, glamorous and smart fabric saris.
Other categories of fabric include Tissue, Net, Faux, Linen, Velvet, Viscose, Art silk, Satin, Organza, Lizi-Bizi, Soft Crush, Laser and many other cool fabrics.

Each Indian state has developed its own unique sari style, with different fabric and weaving

style. The reservoir of Indian sari is very large comprising embroidered sari, classy silk saris and special bridal wedding sari. Bandhani is a classic handwork style of Rajasthan and Gujarat. This handwork involves tying and dying of cloth resulting in the production of elaborate patterns and designs on the sari fabric.
Kota Doria, a traditional style of Rajasthan, is created in small villages of Kota City. This style uses a combination of threads to create fine designs, cotton lending firmness and silk giving airy soft feel.

Banarsi, of Banaras City in UP state, is popular and widely appreciated as an exclusive silk sari. This sari exhibits Mughal patterns and designs. Pure silk (katan), organza with zari work, georgette and shatter are the diverse styles in Banaeasi sari collection.

Kanjeevaram silk sari, originated in Kanjeepuram, is one of the finest and most popular forms of silk in Tamilnadu. Its specialty is a combination of colored threads and a lot of zari work. Its significant attractions are the beautiful tribal designs. Now latest patterns are also getting attention.

Orissa Ikat silk saris – The word Ikat means “tied” and justifying it this style handles tie and die process to produce eye catching patterns. It has a heavy gauge and a fine metallic touch, including wide temple style borders.

The light and simple Chanderi saris of Madhya Pradesh are unique with an airy feel and narrow borders and decently designed anchals with buttis.

Paithani saris of Maharashtra are hand-woven and simple looking. The borders are designed with delicate square and pallus with a peacock pattern while the kaleidoscope designs are enchanting.

Cotton printed saris, the cool summer wear, are available in large fabulous varieties, including batik work, bandhni style, block printing and hand made drawings are printed in cities like Mumbai and Kolkotta.

Cotton handlooms, such as Tant, Jamdani and Baluchari Bengal Handloom saris, are known for their lightness and great comfort. The borders exhibit delicate silk threadwork designs, simple but artistic and unique.

Southern weaves include Pochampalli, Venkatgiri, Gadwal, Guntur, Mangalpuri saris of Andhra Pradesh, Coimbatore and Chettinad styles of Tamilnadu and Mysore silk of Karnataka.

One of the accessories along with sari is a tight fitting short top called choli or blouse worn under the sari. Cholis are usually made of cotton or silk material with or without a collar and sleeves. They are usually more tailor-made than simple knit tops, and may look more attractive by adding” feminine” details such as ruffles or embroidered decorations. The 10th century AD cholis were only front covering with a bare back, still common among Rajasthani ladies.

Sari cholis are quite snugly and comfortable wear, fitted in varying lengths, necklines and sleeves. Some cholis have short neckline while some have low-cuts. In the case of sleeves, cholis are long sleeved, short or sleeveless. Style-wise, the permanent favorites are the short-sleeved ones and wrap-arounds with or without straps. Blouses having prominent buttons in the back are very desiarable.

Blouses with long sleeves in transparent chiffon or lace are also very popular. There are off-shoulder fashions and those held up with strings and Lycra blouses for a casual, modern look. Sari blouses are stitched with a full opening in the front or the back. After wearing the blouse the opening ends are joined by hooks or buttons. The material required to stitch a choli is 1 or 1.20 to .80meters long depending upon the size of the lady and the length of sleeves.

Ready made blouses in various colors and designs are available; but a blouse stitched by a tailor with correct measurements of the lady is preferred.

Though blouses are available in all the bright shades reds, maroons, wine red and whites are in great demand with attractive sari. The work such as Zardozi, in-laid with stones, antique and gold work or sequins on them form part of the embroidery. A bridal choli contains lavish use of gold and antique threads.

The fabrics used for designer blouses are mostly crepes, georgettes, silk and satin, crepe in more demand. Ceremonial Designer cholis have sequins, beads work, and rich chikan embroidery in colored thread or embroidery work in gold and bronze threads all over.

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.