Apr 08, 2023

The Evolution of Women's Ethnic Wear in India: A Journey Through Time

India has diverse cultures and traditions. Its ethnic wear reflects the same. In fact, women's ethnic wear is considered an essential part of the Indian clothing industry, which has evolved significantly. From sarees to salwar kameez, from lehengas to shararas, traditional Indian wear for women has come a long way. In this article, we will journey through time to explore the evolution of women's ethnic wear in India.

girl wearing a bridal lehenga

The Journey of Indian Ethnic Wear: From Ancient India to the Future!

Ancient India Ethnic Wear:

In India, ethnic wear for women can be traced back to ancient times. In those days, women used to wear cotton, silk, and wool garments. The attire was simple: a single cloth draped around the body. This garment was known as a saree, which is still prevalent today.

The Mughal Era Ethnic Wear:

The Mughal era significantly influenced women's ethnic wear in India. Their rulers brought with them a rich clothing tradition, which was reflected in the attire worn by the women of the time. The Anarkali suit, a long, flowing dress with a fitted bodice, was one of the most popular outfits of this era. It is still one of the favourites among women today.

The British Raj Ethnic Wear:

The British Raj also impacted women's ethnic wear in India. During this time, women started wearing Western outfits like skirts and blouses. However, they did not abandon their traditional attire. The saree remained popular, and women started wearing it in new styles, such as the Bengali and Gujarati styles.

Post-Independence Ethnic Wear:

After India gained independence in 1947, there was a surge in the popularity of ethnic wear. Women started wearing salwar kameez, a combination of a long tunic and loose pants, symbolizing national identity. The saree also transformed, introducing new fabrics and designs.

Contemporary India Ethnic Wear:

In modern times, women's ethnic wear has become a fusion of traditional and contemporary styles. Lehenga choli, skirt, and blouse combinations have become popular for weddings and other festive occasions. Sharara- a flowing pant paired with a long tunic, has also returned. Designer sarees- with intricate embroidery and beading have become a high-fashion item.

The Future of Women's Ethnic Wear:

Women's ethnic wear in India is constantly evolving. Women are experimenting with new fabrics, colours, and designs to create unique looks. With the advent of e-commerce, women can access a wide range of ethnic wear from all over the country. The future of women's ethnic wear in India is bright, with designers and manufacturers working to create new and innovative designs.

In conclusion, women's ethnic wear in India has come a long way from ancient times to the modern-day. Various dynasties, cultural exchanges, and historical events have influenced it. Today, women have a plethora of options to choose from when it comes to ethnic wear. With the right combination of traditional and contemporary styles, women can create a unique look that reflects their personality and individuality. The journey of women's ethnic wear in India continues, and it will be exciting to see what the future holds.

The sarees, salwar kameez, lehenga cholis, kurtis, and more combines traditional elegance with contemporary flair, giving you the perfect blend of classic and trendy. So, why wait? Visit Odhni's today and start your journey of traditional Indian attire!

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