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8 Essential Ethnic Wear Every Woman Should Own

No matter how many western dresses or denims or shirts you have in your wardrobe, the collection of ethnic wear for women hits different. It is not just because your nationality is Indian, but the overall appearance and look of ethnic wear for women can never be underestimated when it comes to style and fashion. For all kinds of events – be it a baby shower, a friend’s reception, someone’s birthday, an office event or a day out with buddies- you can wear these ethnic wear and still look confident, charming and stylish. So, when ethnic attires are so versatile and vibrant, don’t you think you should own at least these styles of them to look perfect on all kinds of occasions? 

Salwar suits — The first thing that comes in your mind when we talk about ethnic wear for women is salwar suits. These are simple attires that make you feel covered and also look stylish on different occasions. Like, you can wear salwar suit for a festival with a dupatta and look all desi and sanskari in it. You can even wear the same dress in a picnic and be extremely comfortable flaunting it with a kolhapuri chappal.

Lehenga — The oh so celebrated lehengas in the Bollywood movies is definitely a must have in every woman’s wardrobe. The lehenga consists of a choli and the long skirt with or without a duppatta depends upon you! You can flaunt these lehengas in traditional party or even festive occasions. There are various kinds of lehenga suits like the one in bandini, chickenkari lehenga suits, the ones which come with heavy embroidery, handwork and even mirror work embedded lehengas.

Sarees – You can get the feel of a Bollywood diva by wearing a six or nine yard saree occasionally. Well, if you want, you can even carry this traditional attire to your work daily. It depends upon how much you like this very Indian based attire! There are linen and cotton sarees that look good for casual occasions. You also get the georgette, chiffon and Banarasi sarees which are perfect for festivals and parties.

Sharara suits — Get the royal feel in a formal or celebrated function wearing the sharara suits originating from the city of  Lucknow. These have short or long tops(as per your preference) and the right fitted bottom till knees and flared below that area look just so royal on you! Wear these sharara suits with Mojdis and heels to look adorable and enchanting at any event.

Anarkali suits — The name Anarkali suits originated from the Mughal E Azam theme from where this type of dress came into recognition. The fitted bosom and flared waistline is definitely an eye catcher. With the right chudidar and heavy work on the Anarkali top, you can ace any function or event with total precision.

Kurta and palazzo suits — Not only we Indian women, but even the ones living outside the country love the feel and look of the kurtas. These are extremely contemporary, comfortable and according to the style you choose – you can wear them to casual and formal events. Pair them with palazzo pants for that airy and comfy feel anywhere.

Kaftan tops with leggings — If you want to wear something ethnic and still look sexy and smart, then opting for kaftan kurtas or tops is your right choice. These tops can look cool and even make you feel comfortable. With the right prints or colour of the kurta, you can match them to different occasions you go! Wear leggings with these tops for that perfect appearance.

Patiala suits — Originated from the Punjab State, the  Patial suits have a defined value in the Indian tradition. This ethnic attire can be as casual as you like and as formal as you prefer. The flared patiala pants definitely are remarkable in appearance and can suit short Kurtis which are both worked all simple. You can pair a nice dupatta with this attire to look perfect for any occasion.

Which is your favourite Indian ethnic wear?

11 Responses

  1. I have a couple of these pieces in my wardrobe but since I haven’t been to India in last 6 years, I do not have the latest styles. Thanks for the suggestions. Will make sure to get these pieces.

  2. Kurta and palazzo set is something I love to wear and Lehanga is always my favorite for special functions. I totally agree with the list.

  3. I love shararas but am now too old to wear one. I prefer a saree too. Palazzo and leggings are here one day and then come back after ten years. Kaftans arte so comfortable and perfect loungewear.

  4. Awesome ethnic wear options you have shared Shilpa in this post. I liked most of these. salwar suit and patiala suits are my all time favorite. your post has made me tempted to buy new ethnic wear. here in USA, I did not get much chance to wear Indian outfits. with your post, I recalled old days and beautiful memories of college days.

  5. I feel the comfiest in the Indian ethnic wear of a salwar suit without any dupatta for regular office wear, it gives you so much ease and freedom. During party times , I prefer a silk saree but I’m also vying to wear a shararat someday after seeing your list.

  6. Except shararas I have all of these ethnic wear options. Saree being my favourite of all. For comfort though salwar suit or palazzos win hands down.

  7. Truly speaking, I am big fan of Indian ethnic wears! I feel so comfortable, light and top of my game when I wear Indian ethnics. From the traditional sarees to the modern day palazzo, they all bring about a sense of ease and beauty to the wearer!

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