Monday 24 January 2011

Richness and Elegance of Indian Fashion Stays Alive

Indian fashion is rich and diverse similar to the diverse culture and rich heritage of India. People in the country follow different religions and culture, each having its own unique type of attire.

Whatever the religion or culture, the traditional fashion in India was restricted to various styles of sari. Though some used to wear salwar kameez as well but the numbers were small. Some of the changing trends in fashion were traced out in the Harappa and Mohenjodaro civilizations. Over the period of time, various styles and trends invaded the fashion industry with globalization and westernization.

Over the years, the styles and trends have witnessed a major change; the traditional Indian sari still stays in limelight. The attire has retained its charm, elegance, and richness even in the westernized fashion world. It is one such attire that makes a woman look more beautiful, graceful, and sensuous. All that is changed with the changing fashion is the styles of wearing sari and the fabric used to design a sari. Today, India saris are available in a range of fabrics and designs. Some of the common fabric types available are the cotton, silk, crepe, crepe, georgettes, chiffon, polyester, and synthetic. These types are adorned with various decorative pieces like mirrors, zari, embroidery, and kundan to accentuate the beauty of Indian sari.

Every state in the country has its unique type of saree formation and design. Even today, these traditional types embrace the richness of cultural heritage of different region and have become timeless. Some of these are Bandhani, patola, Guajarati brocade, chanderi, maheshwari, gadwall, kota doria, phulkari, lucknowi, Banaras brocade, kanjeevaram, konrad or temple saree, baluchari, and paithani.

Another most popular Indian dress is the salwar kameez. The trend of this attire evolved from the states of Punjab and Kashmir. Gradually, the trend spread across the length and breadth of the country with new styles and grace. Today, many varieties and styles of salwar kameez are seen in the fashion market, some of which have influences from western culture and some are still holding to the old traditional beauty. Like the saree, salwar kameez are also found in variety of fabrics and embellishments.

In the present generation, styles of Indian dressing in greatly influences by the western culture. Today’s fashion world is characterized by Indo-western style that is a perfect blend of modernity and tradition. This form of fashion is characterized by a short top or kurti with jeans, pants, or churidars. Some even use a stole or short shawl to add an elegance of Indian touch to their clothing.

When it comes to men’s fashion, the traditional kurta pajama is still in picture. Though variety of fabrics, designs, and adornments used for designing the attire have changed in synchronization with the fashion trends. Westernization has introduced trendy jeans, pants, and codrois. The availability of fabrics and colors has also changed over a period of time. Whatever new has come in is always welcome but today also men wear designer kurta pajama or dhoti kurta on special occasions and festivals to add extra charm and elegance to their personality.

Though Indian fashion is influenced by western culture, people across the boundaries are attracted to the distinctive and beautiful fashion styles and trends in India. Indian clothing is having a huge impact on the international fashion world.

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