Weddings, festivals, or everyday wear, Indian women’s fashion is an important part of the country’s cultural heritage. From attire to accessories, we can say it is a dynamic industry. Let us look at fashion in D.
Dhoti pants
Having its roots in traditional Indian attire, the dhoti salwar is becoming a popular fashion trend. Honoring the cultural heritage but also wanting to have a chic and trendy look, fashion-conscious women have found a way to interpret traditional attire.
Typically worn by men in India, across centuries the dhoti is everyday wear but also makes its way to weddings depending on the fabric with which it is draped. Combining the comfort and fluidity of dhoti but maintaining the structure of a pant, the dhoti pants for women is undoubtedly one of the most versatile garments ever. With an elasticated waistband, it is suited for all body types and can be made in silk, linen, or cotton with vibrant colors and intricate patterns.
Its versatility is boundless that you can pair it with a t-shirt or tank top for a casual look, a kurta, and a heel for a formal look which makes it great for fusion wear. The loose and airy fit is great for the humid climate and makes it easy to move which makes it a great comfort wear.
It can also be layered with a jacket and sweaters with scarves to be worn during winter. So typically, the dhoti pants can be worn all through the year, depending on how you pair them with.
Dupatta
A rectangular piece of cloth that is an essential part of Indian tradition, the dupatta can be traced back to ancient India where it was worn for modesty and dignity. Elders considered it as a mark of respect when women wore it over their heads. It also gives an aesthetic appeal and is made from cotton, chiffon, silk, and georgette with intricate patterns embellished with stones and embroidery.
It is an essential component for most Indian attires like salwar, lehenga, and even sarees. It can be draped over the head, or the shoulders and sometimes even as a veil covering the face. While silk dupattas are reserved for weddings, cotton is preferred for everyday wear. It can be plain for everyday wear or embellished with stones or embroidery to give a touch of elegance.
Dhonekali weave
Originating in the state of Odisha, the Dhonekali weave has a long and rich history that dates to the 5th century rule of Bhaumakara dynasty. Typically used to weave garments for weddings like saree for women and dhoti for men, the dhonekali is a technique that has a distinctive pattern.
Being passed down through generations the weave uses a hand-operated loom and uses a technique called dobby, which involves dobby bars which are wooden sticks to make intricate patterns. It also uses a special yarn katki which is twisted to create a stronger yarn and then dyed with colors to make intricate patterns.
An important part of Odisha’s cultural heritage, it is also a symbol of prestige and status, since it was worn during ceremonies. Not only garments, the weave also found its place in temples as prayer mats and wall hangings.
This post is part of #BlogchatterA2Z 2023.
That Madras Mom 