The Eternal Tale of Indian Salwar Suits

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Summary-

The Indian salwar kurta has been a symbol of femininity and elegance for centuries, evolving from medieval Mughal styles like the Gharara and Anarkali into a versatile ethnic ensemble. This blog explores five popular salwar suit styles—Anarkali, Printed Suits, Straight Cut Suits, Sharara Suits, and Patiala Suits—each offering a unique blend of tradition and contemporary fashion. From the regal charm of the Sharara to the simple sophistication of printed suits, these outfits cater to both festive and casual occasions. Whether you seek comfort, class, or cultural richness, salwar suits continue to be a timeless choice in Indian fashion.

The Everlasting Legacy of Indian Salwar Suits

From the plain cotton kurti to the voluminous designer kurta for festivities, in the fashion world, the Indian salwar kurta has been a statement of feminine beauty, grace, and charm for centuries. Beginning in medieval times under the aegis of the Mughals who gave us the regal Gharara and Sharara, Anarkali, and Angarakahs, the salwar kameez or salwar kurta is one ensemble where comfort and class meet. This blog takes us through a classic ethnic wardrobe filled with the choicest salwar suit options, to let you pick your favorite one for the festivities ahead.

Anarkali: A Romance of Trend and Tradition

Designer Anarkali Heavy Salwar-Kameez Suit

Named after the beautiful kali or bud of Anar (pomegranate flower), Anarkali suits is known for its matchless volume and gorgeous appeal, which comes from the rich fabrics, patterns, and embroideries used on it. The perfect party wear, this ethnic dress has been winning hearts in the fashion world for decades and continues to remain timeless with its unique charm. They can be styled with a dupatta and chudidar, straight-cut pants, or sharara to create beautiful traditional appeal, or can be worn as an ethnic gown to exude a chic grandeur.

Printed Suits: Simple Sophistication

Covered in contemporary and classic patterns, printed suits come in a variety of fits, tailored with comfy fabrics to allow you an effortless appeal. These are ensembles perfect for office and formal occasions and for days when you have a lot of errands to run. For those who love their comfort but want to turn heads with a chic look, printed suits are a go-to pick, which can be styled with sterling silver or stone jewelry to create memorable looks.

Straight Cut Suits: Keeping it Minimal

Printed Kurta Pant Set

Modern fashion trends demand minimalism and simplicity while looking your fashionable best. Straight-cut suits with their breathable fabrics and seamless tailoring are the perfect choice for such occasions, where ease and elegance need to go hand in hand. They are plain and chic, giving you the ideal balance of trend with a hint of tradition to make formal days fashionable.

Sharara Suits: An Outfit for Royalty

Designer Kurta Sharara & Dupatta Set

How can we forget these splendid outfits? With a gorgeous kurti or peplum top style kurta, the shararas are characterized by their flowy bottoms, popularized by the Begums and queens of medieval India. Zari, Zardozi, embroidery with silk threads and traditional patterns are woven all over, shararas are the quintessential festive Indian wear, perfect to make a royal impact on the occasion.

Patiala Suits: Punjab’s Fashionable Fit


Patiala Salwar-Suit with Net Dupatta

A comfortable pajama (pants) and fitted kameez, Patiala suits are intertwined with the history and culture of Punjab as an ensemble of celebration. Crafted with cotton, silk, and other stylish and comfortable fabrics, Patialas are feminine, classic, and relaxing suits. Traditional embroidery of Punjab such as Phulkari and Zardozi work as well as modern elements of sequins and net are used in designer Patiala suits, making them a fashionable outfit for the festive season. 

The five types of salwar suits we have here are only a few picks out of the basket of traditional Indian fashion. Keeping in touch with modern demands and tastes, salwar suits have been continuously transforming for the casual as well as festive needs of modern fashionistas.

Tips to Choose and Style Salwar Suits

Salwar suits are an ethnic wear choice with which you can never go wrong. However, selecting the right one and styling it correctly can enhance your overall look. Here are some expert tips to help you make the best choice:

1. Pick the Right Fabric for the Occasion

Cotton & Linen : Ideal for casual wear, office, and summer days as they are breathable and comfortable.

Silk & Chanderi : Perfect for formal and festive occasions with their rich sheen and elegance.

Georgette & Crepe : Great for flowy and flattering silhouettes, perfect for parties and evening wear.

Velvet & Brocade : Ideal for winter weddings and grand celebrations.

2. Choose the Right Silhouette for Your Body Type

Pear-Shaped Body : Opt for A-line or Anarkali suits to balance proportions.

Apple-Shaped Body : Straight-cut suits with a deep neckline can create a slimming effect.

Hourglass Figure : Fitted or belted Anarkalis enhance curves beautifully.

Petite Frame : Short kurtas with straight pants or Patiala suits add volume and height.

3. Styling Tips for a Perfect Look

Layer with Dupattas : A sheer, embroidered, or contrast dupatta can instantly elevate your outfit.

Experiment with Bottoms : Pair your kurta with palazzos, cigarette pants, shararas, or dhoti pants for a unique style statement.

Play with Accessories:

Statement Earrings : Jhumkas for a traditional look or studs for a subtle charm.

Belts : Adding a belt to Anarkali suits gives a modern and structured touch.

Bangles & Rings : Traditional bangles or statement rings complete the ethnic vibe.

Choose the Right Footwear:

Juttis & Mojaris : Traditional yet comfortable for casual and festive looks.

Heels or Wedges : Perfect for formal events and to add height.

Kolhapuris & Flats : Stylish and comfortable for everyday wear.

4. Color & Print Selection Based on Occasion

Bright & Bold Hues : Ideal for festivals and celebrations (think reds, yellows, greens).

Pastels & Neutrals : Sophisticated and elegant for office wear or summer gatherings.

Dark Shades & Metallics : Perfect for evening parties and wedding receptions.

5. Seasonal Styling

Summer : Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or chiffon in pastel and light shades.

Winter : Choose heavier fabrics like velvet or silk and layer with embroidered shawls or jackets.

FAQs on the Indian Salwar Suit Tradition

What is an Anarkali suit, and how can it be styled?

An Anarkali suit is a long, flowy outfit named after the pomegranate flower bud. It can be styled with a dupatta and churidar, straight-cut pants, or sharara for a traditional appeal or worn as an ethnic gown for a modern look.

Are printed suits suitable for formal occasions?

Yes, printed suits, made from breathable fabrics with contemporary and traditional patterns, are perfect for office wear, formal events, and casual outings.

What makes a straight-cut suit different from other styles?

Straight-cut suits are designed for minimalistic elegance with seamless tailoring and comfortable fabrics, making them ideal for both formal and semi-casual occasions.

Why are Sharara suits considered festive wear?

Shararas, with their flared pants and intricately embroidered kurtas, were popularized by royal women in medieval India. They exude grandeur and are perfect for celebrations and weddings.

What is special about Patiala suits?

Patiala suits originate from Punjab and are known for their comfortable, pleated salwar and fitted kameez. Traditional embroidery like Phulkari and modern embellishments make them stylish and festive.

How do I choose the right salwar suit for a special occasion?

Choose an Anarkali or Sharara for grand events, a Patiala for a comfortable yet stylish festive look, and a printed or straight-cut suit for a chic, minimalistic appeal.

Conclusion

From cotton to satin and plain to richly embroidered, these ensembles have lived through centuries of changes in fashion trends and remain on the top for the variety and vivacity they offer. Want to pick your next salwar suit online but do not know where to start? Visit Exotic India Art, a curated wardrobe of trendy and traditional salwar suits and everything else that Indian fashion has to offer, all under one roof. 

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About Post Author
Prakriti Anand
This content has been reviewed and written by Prakriti Anand.

Prakriti is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Ancient Indian History from the University of Delhi. Her expertise in Indian culture ensures historical accuracy, cultural authenticity, and ethical representation in every piece she contributes.
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