An ever-evolving industry, the Indian women’s fashion segment is constantly influenced by varying trends that come and go. Not only attire but the material that is used also plays an important role in fashion trends. For example, there is a difference between a cotton saree and a chiffon saree. Each is different on its own, be it comfort, durability, and efforts taken to maintain.
Gathered or pleated strips of fabric that aid volume and give an appearance of a frill is called ruffle and that is now becoming a fashion trend. Right from sarees to gowns to even crop tops, the trend has hopped across categories of garments that aid more grace and elegance.
From sleeves, yokes, hemlines, and even dupattas can have ruffles of various sizes ranging from large to small based on the look or the occasion for which the garment is to be worn. The ruffle adds a touch of femininity to the wearer. Elegant in appearance it tends to highlight the curves. It also adds depth and creates movement when worn.
Image source pinkvilla
This movement and depth make an eye-catching appearance of the outfit. It gives a vintage and bohemian outlook to the outfit. Its ability to be able to incorporate into various fabrics or patterns makes it versatile. While Chiffon, georgette, and organza that is lightweight give a dreamy effect when a ruffle is added, silk, satin, and velvet get a lot of volume when a ruffle is added since they are more structured.
Image source Amazon
Designers have incorporated the ruffle trend in most Indian attire and it especially gained a lot of traction when Deepika Padukone wore it for Cannes. Her off-white ruffle saree with pearl collar designed by Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla for the closing ceremony brought this trend alive and much sought-after. Not to forget yet another time when Deepika flaunted a dual-tone ruffle saree to a popular TV show with colors right out of a candy shop was an instant hit that a lot of manufacturers adopted the design to offer it to the masses who wanted to follow their star. If you would want to check out the saree you can buy an affordable one just by clicking here.
With a history spanning thousands of years, Indian women’s fashion has evolved over the years incorporating a fusion of traditional and modern styles. Women now have a wide range of options to choose from and incorporate the culture.
Patiala salwar
Image source Ajio
Also known as Punjabi salwar, this is the most common attire worn by women in North India, especially Punjab. Designed initially for the Maharaja’s courtiers, it was initially worn by men and later adapted for women. Pleated loose at the waist and tapering towards the ankle the Patiala salwar is a comfortable pant that is unique and fashionable.
It can be made in cotton or silk depending on the occasion for which it is worn. The pleats in the pant are hand stitched to give a voluminous look and are usually worn with a long tunic. The outfit also gleams a high level of modesty in the conservative society. The loose fit of the pant makes them easier to move, so many women prefer to wear this as everyday garments.
Pochampally ikkat
Image source Amazon
Originating from the Pochampally town of Telangana, this textile art form is highly valued for vibrant colors and designs and is also passed down across generations. The weaving technique is unique and involves using dyed thread to be woven onto a pattern in a loom, involves great skill and could be spoiled even with the slightest mistake.
With origin traced back to the 17th century, the weave is known for intricate patterns and vibrant colors. Predominantly worn as sarees, the fabric is now used for garments like salwar and dresses.
Patola
Image source Karagiri
The finest form of textile art and known for its vibrant colors and durability, the patola originates from the state of Gujarat. The weaving technique is known as double ikat where the yarn is first tied and dyed in a pattern and then woven into the fabric. Dating back to the 12th century, the patola was initially used to be worn by the royals.
Collectors and enthusiasts had this as the most sought-after because of its rarity. The vibrant colors in the pattern are visible on both sides. The silk threads used to weave give a luxurious and elegant look. A popular weave among the wealthy and elite because of its beauty and craftsmanship.
The weave is durable, and long-lasting making it popular among the masses.
Paithani
Image source Amazon
Originating from the state of Maharashtra, this time-consuming and complex weave is known for intricate designs Worn initially only by the nobility, the paithani’s origin can be traced back to 200 BC.
A technique called bandi is used for weaving wherein the fabric is woven in sections according to the pattern which requires patience and skill. Peacocks, flowers, and vines are traditionally inspired motifs that are woven into intricate patterns. Resistant to wear and tear and fading of colors, the paithani is yet another popular weave.
An attire that has been worn for centuries, six to nine yards, draped in different styles to give a unique look. A fashion statement and a symbol of Indian culture, it is a popular attire across the world and not only in India. Now let us look at some drapes and fabric in N.
Nivi drape
Image source Amazon
The most common saree drape that you can see around and the easiest drape. Originating from Andhra Pradesh where the Nivi tribe lived, the drape is known for simplicity and elegance. It is a drape that is favored and worn by women from all age groups and body types. It is easy to wear, and quick to drape making it a good choice for everyday wear. It is draped over the left shoulder with pleats centered at the waist, leaving it loose over the shoulder and to the floor. The length is either six or nine yards. From formal events to casual outings, this drape is the most versatile option. The drape suits all types of bodies by accentuating the curves and giving an overall feminine touch.
Evolving over the years, women have experimented with fabrics, colors, and even the way the pallu is pinned. Some women tend to keep it pinned to shoulders for formal occasions, while in some cases it is let loose to flaunt the design or the embellishments which could be embroidery, sequins or stone work. Designers have now incorporated the drape into garments that feature this pre-stitched pleating in gowns which makes it look elegant. A timeless and elegant drape of the nivi drape is a fashion statement for years to continue.
Nauvari drape
Image source Amazon
A drape worn by the womenfolk of Maharashtra, the nauvari drape is worn by draping a nine-yard saree. It is the traditional drape of the state of Maharashtra. A popular choice for weddings, festivals, and cultural events, this drape that represents the Marathi culture is also known as the Kashta drape. To give the look of dhoti, the pleats are tucked into the leg, then draped over the left shoulder, and pallu is pinned. Draping the saree around the torso and then pinning it at the back gives a diagonal look.
The unique feature is that the drape allows ease of movement and is loved by women of all age groups. Women now experiment with different fabrics and have embellishments that accentuate the beauty of the saree. Accessorizing it with a nath on the nose really gives an elegant look.
Not only for women in Maharashtra but the drape is also preferred by many women across the country who choose to drape this style for events and cultural occasions.
Ngotekherh weave
Image source Asiainch
Characterized by intricate designs and vibrant colors, the Ngotekherh weave is a weaving technique practiced by the Tangkul tribe of the state of Manipur. Known for geometric patterns and the bold colors on fabric the ngotekherh weave has a presence of natural dyes from tree bark, and flowers which give long-lasting color.
It is a technique that is passed across generations from grandmothers to granddaughters. This helps in preserving the artwork and at the same time having more skilled people know the nuances.
Comprising a vibrant and rich tapestry of styles and colors, Indian women’s fashion has evolved over the years. A reflection of the cultural heritage, it has also been influenced by regional styles and influences from the foreign land. Let us look at the trends in M.
Madisar
Image source Amazon
A traditional draping style of the south Indian women, the madisar is longer than the usual 6-yard saree and is either 9 or 10 yards depending on the requirement. Worn by the married women of the Brahmin community the madisar is a symbol of cultural heritage. The method of drape makes it easier for movement, though it takes a lot of practice to drape the madisar perfectly. It is a tradition in the Brahmin household that the madisar is to be worn for every religious function in the household. To make it much easier, we now have pre-stitched madisars that have all the pleats stitched.
Mekhela Chador
Image source Jaypore
A two-piece garment that has a long skirt-like cloth called mekhela and a cloth that drapes over the shoulder and back called the chador, the mekhela chador is the traditional attire of the Assamese women. An important part of Assamese tradition, it is worn by women during marriages and religious occasions. Made in a variety of fabrics like silk, Muga, and cotton it is a symbol of luxury. Available in a variety of colors with motifs ranging from flora to fauna, and geometric designs, it is a very popular garment. It plays a very important role in the state’s wedding tradition and is worn by the brides. The women of the state wear it during Bihu and Durga puja as part of the tradition and respect.
Maheshwari weave
Image source Amazon
A traditional handloom weaving technique originated in the town of Maheshwar, Uttar Pradesh, the Maheshwari weave is a blend of cotton and silk. Known for its lightweight and airy texture it gives a glossy shine and is durable.
The fabric is woven in such a way that both sides are identical and it can be reversible, so a great option for versatility. The jacquard weaving technique is used for creating designs and it gives good precision and detailing.
Mashru weave
A traditional handloom weave that uses silk and cotton threads, the mashru weave originated in Gujarat. The light and smooth fabric has silk in the inner layer and cotton on the outer layer making it durable and is also resistant to wear and tear. Cotton for the outer layer enabled comfort and the silk lining depicted beauty and luxury.
The weaving takes place in a pit loom that is manually operated using foot pedals and levers. The contrasting colors and patterns on the fabric when worn give a beautiful effect and the silk lining adds elegance.
Moirang phee
A traditional handloom weaving technique, the moirang phee originated in the MOirang town of the state of Manipur. It’s known for its intricate and colorful designs that depict the culture of the region.
Cotton that is locally sourced from the fields in Manipur is used to make the fabric, moirang phee. The light and airy nature of the fabric makes it best suited for hot and humid climates. The weaving is done on a pit loom by skilled manual labor.
Natural dyes from turmeric, indigo, and hibiscus flowers help in creating vibrant patterns such as birds, animals, and patterns that depict the local culture and tradition such as the folklore and mythology of Manipur.
Muga silk
Image source Indiamart
Originating in the Northeastern state of Assam, the Muga silk is a luxurious and unique fabric that is known for its unique golden color and lustrous texture. These unique characteristics, make it the most sought-after among silk lovers.
The Brahmaputra valley in Assam is where there is an abundance of som and sualu trees which is the food for the silk moth. Rearing the silk moth, extracting the fiber, and then weaving the fabric is a laborious process. The silk known for its durability has a unique gold color which is from the yellow pigment of the cocoon. A symbol of the state’s rich tradition and history it also helps in preserving the cultural heritage of the state of Assam. It also forms a major part of contributing to the economy of the state.
Mysore silk
Image source Amazon
Known for its exceptional quality and durability, the Mysore silk originates from the city of Mysore, Karnataka. The mulberry silkworms provide high-quality silk yarns that provide sheen and softness which is a unique characteristic of this silk.
A highly laborious process involves boiling the silkworm, extracting the yarn, and then weaving them into the fabric. The silk fabric is available in a variety of colors and designs made from jacquard weaving.
Thousands of people are involved in the extraction and weaving process which makes silk production a major contributor to the state economy. The production of silk adhering to quality standards is overseen by the Government.
Let us look at trends in K. We have a lot of weaves in K that are popular among the masses even now.
Kurta/Kurti
Image source Amazon
Popular among both men and women the kurta or kurti is known for its versatility and style in addition to being a comfort fair. By saying versatile you could wear it for everyday wear and also for weddings or special occasions.
The kurta is long, loose-fitted, and has a length below the knee, the kurti is typically shorter and is usually till the knee or above it. They can be made in a variety of fabrics like cotton, silk, and chiffon. They can also have embellishments like embroidery, and sequins which adds more beauty.
Depending upon the occasion the garment can be dressed up or down. Say for everyday wear it can be paired with a jean, dhoti pants, or leggings, but for a wedding, it can be made grandeur with heavy embellishments and accessories.
The loose fit makes the garment airier and easier to move around making it one of the most sought-after comforts. It is also easy to be cared for like machine washing and hand or dry wash for expensive materials or work done on them.
A great way to depict Indian cultural heritage it can also be worn for religious occasions and marriages, the kurta/kurti is a symbol of Indian identity and pride. A worth-considering outfit known for its versatility, the kurta/kurti gains popularity even overseas.
Kantha weave
Image source Indiamart
Kantha which means rags in Sanskrit, is a technique in the Indian subcontinent originating in the eastern part, of Bengal and Odisha that involves stitching together layers of old saree, dhoti, and discarded clothes to form intricate patterns. Could be considered as recycling old clothes into functional ones like cushions or quilts.
A technique that was traditionally practiced by the rural women, who would collect fabrics and turn them into functional household materials this was later adopted by skilled artisans to create beautiful garments. The product is rustic and elegant.
The versatility is a great advantage of this weave, be it for cushions, quilts, sarees, or salwar. The repurposing of old fabrics aids sustainability which is one more reason the weave is becoming much famous. The weave also helps support rural women’s communities.
Khesh
Image source Ajio
Derived from the Bengali word ‘khesh’ which means ‘scratch or tear’, the khesh is a handloom weaving technique from West Bengal, that repurposes old sarees or dhotis. The eco-friendly and sustainable nature makes it even more popular as it repurposes fabric without any waste.
The unique and colorful designs make it stand apart, a single color is used as warp, and strips from pre-used clothing woven as weft result in textured fabrics with vibrant colors.
It is time-consuming and laborious as the weaver needs to carefully select the pre-worn garment strips that would go well with the warp. The woven cloth is used to make furnishings like curtains and cushion covers and also sarees. Known for its vibrant colours and texture the weave is also making its way to the fashion industry where designers use this for upcoming projects.
Kota Doria
Image source Amazon
Originating in the Kota region of Rajasthan, It is a weaving technique that produces light and airy fabrics. The weaving involves intricate checked or square patterns and is predominantly used for producing sarees. It uses two yarns thick one called the warp and a thin one called the weft. The weft yarns are passed over and under the warp threads to form the square patterns.
The fabric is lightweight and breathable which is great for hot and humid weather. White, beige, and pastel are usual colors but with changing trends they are now available in different colors. It has a GI tag that makes it unique and authentic and it is made by traditional methods.
Indian women’s fashion trends never have an end, because each day we see a new trend popping up. Thanks to social media for taking long trends across the length and breadth of the land. In today’s post we discuss the trends in H.
Half saree
Image source Amazon
Also known as langa voni or pavada davani, the half saree is predominantly worked by the adolescent girls in South India. A garment that is gifted by the maternal uncle to the girl once she attains puberty, the half saree is a three piece attire consisting of a long skirt, blouse and a cloth that is to be draped over across the left shoulder.
Adolescent girls wear this attire until they are married. Though it might seem similar to the ghaghra choli of North India it differs in the way the dupatta is draped. The half saree can be weaved in cotton for casual wear and in silk or luxurious materials for festive wear.
Initially it was similar colors that were paired but with changing trends extreme contrast and even different materials for all three parts of the garment is now becoming fashionable. Even sarees these days have adopted the half and half look which will make the saree appear like a half saree. Embellished with stones, sequins and embroidery the half saree can be made to look elegant and beautiful.
Habaspuri sarees
Image source Indiamart
Known for their unique motifs like kumbha, fish and flower worn into the fabric with mulberry or cotton silk threads on handloom the habaspuri sarees trace back their origin to habaspur in Odisha.
Exceptional attention to intricate designs and craftsmanship is the unique highlight of this weave and a motif that resembles a longitudinally arranged temple makes it stand out from other weaves. One of Odisha’s symbols of cultural heritage the habaspuri saree is a great addition to your beautiful wardrobe.
As the art of this particular weave is almost dying since youngsters have now turned to different occupations, the Government in a last resort has planned training for the youth to keep the art of this weave alive. A GI tag is provided to not only ensure the quality is high but also to bring a competitive price in the international market.
How can one forget handloom sarees , made by hand in the look with patterns warp and weft handloom weaves should be preserved and purchased to support local artisans whose livelihood depends on selling these garments.
Talking about Indian women’s fashion, if you have been following this series, I will introduce the alphabet with a dress and a weave. The reason I do that is we already know that there is a garment and the weave is mentioned so that we get to know about the fabric that it’s been used for so that we could also come up with ideas to bring that idea of ours to life. The one that uses the Indian weave for the outfit of your dreams. Because who said you cannot have a haram pant in silk and pair it up with a chanderi tank top layered with a bagru print long shrug and accessorized with kundan long chains? After all, fashion is in the mind of a person who envisions how they would want to present themselves.
Today let us look at the alphabet G.
Ghaghara choli
Image source Myntra
Having been there for centuries, this traditional and elegant attire that comprises a long skirt, a scarf, and a blouse is the Ghaghara choli. Worn by women during festivities and special occasions this three-piece garment gleams elegance and beauty at first glance. Heavily embellished with sequins, embroidery, or even stones, the long flowing skirt made of silk or luxurious material is the Ghaghara. A short sleeved tight fitted blouse that is paired is the choli and the midriff is visible since the choli is stitched short.
The choli can be of the same material as the skirt or even different. Depending upon the occasion, it can be amped up with stone or sequin work to look grander in appeal than the skirt. The color could also be the same with contrast work or a fabric that is of contrast color with minimal work would both work great with the Ghaghara. The neck designs also play an important role where it could be as halter, off-shoulder, or even backless. Overall, the choli should complement the long skirt, Ghaghara.
The final element that adds grandeur is the dupatta or the scarf which is draped over the shoulders or even covers the head. Heavily embellished with stones and embroidery the dupatta adds elegance and sophistication to complement the Ghaghara choli.
In addition to being aesthetic, the Ghaghara is also a comfortable garment that provides ease of movement because of the long skirt. The blouse can be stitched to fit perfectly for the body of the wearer.
Gadwal
Image source meesho
A lightweight durable fabric that is distinctive and stands out because of its sheen and texture, the gadwal originated in the town of Gadwal, Telangana. A unique blend of silk and cotton threads the gadwal is made of high-quality craftsmanship and has exquisite designs.
In a gadwal saree, the body of the saree is made of cotton threads and the pallu has silk threads. The body and the pallu along with the border are then attached finally to make it lightweight by a technique called kuttu. The interlocking of silk and cotton threads requires precision and highly skilled craftsmanship. Also, to note is the time-consuming process. Owing to the light and airy feel it can be worn in hot and humid climates.
The gadwal is a symbol of Telangana’s cultural heritage and can be worn for special occasions.
Gota patti
Image source Indiamart
An Indian embroidery technique where small pieces of zari which could be silver or gold ribbons being pasted on to the fabrics and then sewed at the end. A lengthy and time consuming process involves a lot of skilled craftsmanship.
When you look through the crowd at an Indian Wedding, I am very sure that you can find a couple of people wearing garments with gota patti. A traditional Indian embroidery technique that involves stitching metallic strips in gold and silver onto fabric with intricate designs the gota patti is used on saree and lehenga.
Prevalent during the Mughal era, it is believed to have originated in Lucknow. The strips known as zari also is now made with different colors like pastels and other hues. The motifs range from floral to paisleys and can also be geometric or abstract designs. Jaipur, Ajmer, Bikaner, and Udaipur are centers of this amazing art of intricate design weaving.
A term that has been gaining a lot of momentum and traction in recent years is fusion wear. Pairing up traditional costumes with little input from Western styles gives you a unique and modern look. When you are quite bored of sporting the traditional look or the Western formals, this will give you a refreshing look.
We could say it’s the best of both worlds (Indian and Western styles) as it incorporates the beauty of both. A popular twist to fashion is when a woman wants to embrace her cultural roots while still incorporating modern fashion trends.
Image source Amazon
This style became a revolution in Indian women’s fashion such that top brands have even adopted it to bring them into their collections. Though Western wear gained a lot of attention, the ethnic wear segment of garments has repositioned itself as preferred because of the innovative styles, and product marketing the growth trajectory has also seen immense rise.
Image source AJIO
During the early 2000s, the designers started experimenting by using silhouettes from Western styles in traditional ethnic wear. This gave rise to fusion wear, a style blended with the best of both worlds.
Those living in urban areas have adopted the trend of fusion wear. It appears versatile and comfortable in addition to being stylish, it has now become a great choice for everyday wear and also for formal occasions. Its versatility spans such that the attire can be dressed up and dressed down, depending upon the occasion for which it is worn.
An Indo-Western dress wherein a saree or salwar kameez has a Western silhouette or cut that makes it comfortable and stylish has recently gained popularity. The fusion saree is a traditional Indian saree that has Western cuts, and options to drape over a pair of pants. Fusion wear has even found its way into weddings. From wedding guests to even the bride now chooses to wear fusion wear. The modern and stylish bridal look retains the cultural significance of traditional bridal attire. This unique and modern style of clothing will gain more popularity as more women embrace this choice of fusion wear.
Image source Indya
A combination of the Ghaghara skirt with a pashmina stole and a cashmere top can never go wrong when it comes to styling. Indian fabrics are given a fresh look with cuts from Europe and the United States giving you a refreshing outlook that can never go wrong.
An essential part of the country’s rich cultural heritage especially when keeping in mind fashion, ethnic wear, and jewelry are things that hit the chord. Especially in a diverse country like India which has a rich cultural history you are limitless with the options you have when it comes to dressing up and following it up with accessories. Let us look at some of the famous ethnic dresses and jewelry in Indian women’s fashion.
When you turn back and look you may notice a wide range of styles, patterns, and designs when it comes to ethnic wear. Be it the fabric, the craftsmanship involved in weaving, the type of occasion whatsoever, you name it, and Tada! You have a dress and a matching accessory. Snap and which land are you in? Well, the answer can be said out loud beaming with pride that it’s India.
From Sarees, salwars, kurtas, lehengas, and half sarees Indian ethnic wear for women has a never-ending list of options. Each of these has a unique charm and adds beauty to the person who wears it.
Saree
Image source pixabay
The saree is a long piece of fabric that is draped around the body and paired with a blouse. Depending upon the place of living, and type of occasion the saree is available in a variety of materials and there is one for everyone. There are silk sarees for weddings, cotton sarees for everyday wear, and georgette sarees for a party. Embellished with sequins or stones the sarees are made to look more grandeur.
Pairing them with different blouses ranging from halter necks to tank tops gives you a truckload of options for fusion wear. Leave the blouse pairing, the type of drape is a whole new chapter that will give you ideas to drape the same saree in about 20+ styles without making people guess that you’re wearing the same thing over and over again.
Wait, and don’t worry if you can’t get the drape right, we Indian women have a solution even for that. We now have businesses that sell one-minute sarees. You just must clip and swish two rounds and be done. You will look like someone who hired a professional to drape your saree. It all becomes so easy that you only have to choose the saree, give them your measurements, and in two days land your Cinderella costume. And for a bonus, some of them even come with customized blouses how cool is that? And if your curves give you insecurity worry not, you have saree shapewear that literally will make you go unrecognizable.
Salwar kameez
A tunic paired with loose-fitting pants makes it a breezy garment. Most women resort to this for everyday wear. It comes in a variety of fabrics and different stitching styles. This can be paired with a dupatta or even a scarf.
Lehenga
Image source pixabay
Predominantly worn for special occasions like weddings, the lehenga is a long skirt paired with a blouse and a dupatta. It can be elegant and luxurious at the same time depending upon the fabric and the amount of handwork that goes into making it. Silk and luxurious fabrics are the most sought materials for a lehenga which is then embellished with stones and sequins.
Ethnic jewellery
An essential part of Indian ethnic wear and no garment is complete without pairing it with jewelry.
The usage of precious metals, intricate designs, and skilful craftsmanship in Indian jewelry is very famous throughout the world. The jewelry includes earrings, bangles, chains, necklaces, rings, toe rings , maang tikkas and anklets.
Image source pixabay
A kundan set that includes earrings, a necklace, and a maang tikka is one of the most famous jewelry forms. Glass stones that are set in gold or silver metal base make it look classy and regal.
Image source Indiamart
A polki set is something similar to kundan except that instead of glass stones, this has diamonds studded, which makes it a perfect wear for special grandeur occasions like weddings. Polki sets are expensive and luxurious forms of Indian jewelry.
Indian women love to wear bangles which are like bracelets that can be made in gold, silver, glass, and lac. They come in a variety of colors and intricate patterns on them can be made to make them look grand.
Indian women also love layering up jewelry. With Short necklaces and long chains, they have a variety of options to style up depending on the neckline of the outfit they wear. Ethnic wear dresses and jewelry reflect the diversity of our country and its rich cultural history. Indian ethnic wear is loved by women across borders and is cherished by people across the world. Indian women’s fashion is timeless, truly unique, and elegant in its own way.
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
Image source Amazon
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
Image source Amazon
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
Image source meesho
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.
That Madras Mom 