If you’re a fan of traditional attire with a twist of comfort and elegance, then the Salwar Kameez is probably on your radar. Salwar Kameez is a popular traditional dress that was worn in South Asia in countries such as India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. The kameez is a long shirt or tunic that can be different in length while the salwar is a loose trouser that is worn underneath the kameez. And then there is a dupatta which is optional to pair and is mainly draped over the shoulder, head, or even styled with the salwar kameez for a stunning look. Today it is loved by women worldwide for its comfort and coziness. This Indian Wear combination allows women the freedom to move and is a great choice for everyday wear casual evenings and even traditional celebrations.
History of Salwar Kameez
The trend of salwar kameez started with the ancient civilizations in Persia, which is modern-day Iran. They were simple and designed for practical needs, suited to the nomadic lifestyle of many ancient tribes in Central Asia. They were loose-fitting and made from breathable fabrics making them ideal for hot and arid climates. Eventually, these tribes migrated and the idea of this perfect Indian wear for everyday use became popular in the whole of central Asia.
With the Mughal rule in the 16th century, royal families started wearing it making salwar kameez a symbol of class and sophistication. Even Anarkali Suits, a very renowned form of Salwar Kameez came into trend in the Mughal era. They introduced luxurious fabrics such as silk, brocade, and velvet, as well as elaborate embroidery techniques like zari (gold threadwork) and zardozi (metal embroidery). The kameez became longer and more fitted, while the salwar took on various styles, including the wide-legged palazzo-like gharara and the more fitted churidar.
💡 Did you know? Initially, even men wore salwar kameez for its comfort and versatility, which today have evolved into Kurta Pajama and Pathani Suits.
Difference between salwar kameez and salwar suits
Salwar Kameez is mainly a tunic and trousers with a dupatta, salwar suits have a broader category and include the churidar suit, palazzo suit, and Anarkali suit. In simple words, you can say that every Salwar Kameez is a Salwar suit, but not all Salwar suits are Salwar Kameez. The difference also lies in the cut and style. The traditional Salwar Kameez maintains a classic dress and has a similar structure, but Salwar suits can be more experimental with different cuts and embellishments bringing the contemporary touch too.
Who Should Wear a Salwar Kameez?
One of the best things about the Salwar Kameez is that it suits all body types. The key is to find the right fit. Petite? Go for a straight-cut kameez. Curvy? An A-line or Anarkali style can be flattering. And not just it suits all body types. Salwar Kameez is incredibly versatile. For daily wear, there are options for simple designs in breathable fabrics. For festive occasions, you can go for heavily embroidered or embellished pieces that make a statement.
How to choose the right salwar kameez
When you plan on shopping salwar kameez online, many factors can help you in finalizing the actual choice you like –
- Understand the occasion you are buying the salwar kameez for. If it is festive, vibrant colors will help you filter out your choices. For weddings, the amount of embroidery and embellishments can help you decide the right salwar kameez.
- Similarly, once you know the occasion, you will be able to understand the fabric. Cotton, silk, and georgette are great options for everyday wear. Similarly, chiffon, chanderi, and georgette go well for festivals.
- Even your skin tone helps in understanding the right color and style to pick. Soft pastel colors go with every shade while bold and bright colors help the wheatish and brownish skin tones to stand out. The idea is to not hide or be ashamed of the tone but to be confident and add to the glow of your skin.
- The salwar kameez you decide on helps you in finalizing your accessories too. For eg, if it has a heavy neckline work, you are clear that you only require statement earrings and can skip the necklace. Or if it is full sleeves, you do not have to worry about finding matching bracelets or bangles.
There are so many more factors like your favorite choice, the relaxed fit you prefer, whether it is the baggy or the loose style you like to wear, the classic or the contemporary feel you want to carry, etc, that can help you in filtering out the perfect salwar kameez for the perfect occasion that you are looking for. We provide a variety of options as per the filters that you can try to get to the final look. Because there’s a reason why we are one of the top Indian wear stores online throughout the globe. We’ve got what you’re exactly looking for. And we can help you get to it.
