
The production of silk is considered to be one of the major means of developing the economic status and foreign exchange of a country. Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Assam, West Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh are the states producing unprocessed silk. Among these states, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Jammu & Kashmir are reckoned for producing mulberry silk and Chattisgarh, Orissa, Jharkhand, and north-eastern states are well recognized for producing non-mulberry silks. In 1980-81 production of silk was 5,000 tonnes. As japan has pulled away from this industry, India stands a very good chance to fill in the breach. The country would need 30,000 tonnes in near future. India brought in almost 250 crore rupees worth of foreign exchange through export of silk items. China however, continues to top the world in production of silk and its exports. Silk is categorized in four main types namely Tussar silks, Eri, Mulberry and Muga hat are distinguished for the different species of silkworms from which the silks are derived.
The excellence in silk sarees of India evidences the expertise of the adept artisans and weavers of regions of India. The designs, the weaving technique, the use of colors that suit each and every and design of silk sarees manifest the superiority of silks in India. Among the very popular silk sarees the names of Jamdani, Jamvar, Patola sarees, Navarangi, Paithani sarees, Amru silk, Kosa silk, Chanderi, Maheshwari silk, Sambalpuri sarees, Bomkai sarees, Baluchari sarees, Ikat silk. Apart from these sarees, South India has been recognized for heavy silk sarees namely Kanjeevaram sarees, Kancheepuram silks, Dharmavaram etc are sought after by people of not only that particular region but also the entire India and abroad as well.

Abhas, the traditional costume of the region of Kutch, has entered the world of high fashion. Successfully adapted to modern styles by Anjali Mangaldas, this beautiful garment has become a rage with the fashion conscious women.
In the village of Kutch, the women looked beautiful in their fabulous Abha as they swayed to the music. The twinkling lights played mischievously over the gold and thread embroidery while the seqins and badla work sparkled continuously. A woman in an abha, the raditional costume of the Khatri, Memon and Korja Muslim communities of Kutch is a sight to behold. This garment from Kutch, a district in Gujarat, has a history that is as colorful and exciting as the garment. In ancient times the women wore the abha embellished with beautiful tie-dye designs, zari thread embroidery that was very minute and intricate embroidery in colored silk or cotton thread in a combination of a variety of stitches, integrating minuscule mirror discs into its elaborate and distinct pattern.
The word abha-has been derived from aba a word commonly used in the Middle Eastern countries which means a top garment or a mantle. The abha based on an age-old traditional classical cut and style, is basically a kalidar kurta without a slit on the sides, with a lose flair and it hangs lower than a normal kurta. The abha has been a collectors item since the last four generations. The best have even been part of collections auctioned in the west by Christs and Sothebys Research scholars have not yet been able to pinpoint the historical period or influence on these costumes. Unfortunately modernity has compelled these lovely costumes into museums or wooden boxes in far off villages. The genuine abhas could be date back nearly a century.

The traditional sarees like the Banarasi sarees, Kanjeevaram sarees, Konrad sarees, Mysore silk sarees, Pochampally Ikat sarees, Chanderi sarees, Paithani sarees, Patola sarees, Baluchari sarees, Bomkai sarees, Tussar sarees etc are the exclusive creations of the artisans who use silk as the base material for these sarees. Among non-mulberry silks, Tussar is mostly produced by tribal people who are settled in different parts and regions of India. Tussar silk is produced in abundance in India and is the only producer of golden muga silk. Even, India is a major producer of eri silk.
The Indian artisans create a huge range of sarees that are based on pure silk fabrics. The traditional banarasi sarees uses pure silk fabrics that are created by the supplementary thread designs, including dense border patterns, are almost always woven as discontinuous supplementary-weft with the highly decorated endpiece. Traditional Banaras brocade sarees usually have subtle colors which may be quite pale compared to western and southern Indian silks. Patola arees that are another traditional sarees of India are basecally pure silk sarees. A silk Ikat saree industry has recently developed in Rajkot that created patola and modern geometric designs in the weft threads only. Block printed silk sarees are also created throughout the region as well as in Srinagar, which has a small sericulture industry. Its silk fabrics are often of low quality but they make popular, relatively inexpensive silk sarees. The embroidered tinsal sarees are block printed or silk screened and are often designed with flacked of mica or gold dust. Sometimes, silk sarees are designed with both resist and South Western districts like Baluchari sarees are created using the silk material and the artisans use their efficiency in creating embroidery work with zari threads on the end piece and the borders. The sarees are the representation of exclusive thematic work by the artisans.
Apart from creating silk sarees the local artisans create mixed tussar cotton fabric. Many of these modern sarees also use Ikat-dyed cotton warp borders imported from Orissa. The artisans of Bengal include weaving Bomkai, Jamdani sarees, Muga sarees, Pat sarees, Sambalpuri sarees etc. Apart from these sarees, India is known for creating Ikat silks, pochampally sarees that are finely created of pure silk fabrics. Further south in the Kumbakonam, Thanjavur area, silk fabrics have been woven since at least the fourteenth century. In recent times, the artisans and weavers create heavy to medium weight Kornad silks similar in style and technique to Kanchipuram sarees. Thus for its elan, style and feel silk sarees have occupied a major part in the Indian saree scenario.

Even the wedding sarees are now designed by following contemporary designs and fabrics. The face and reverse side of the wedding saree are sometimes decked with interlocked-weft join of the border and field. This causes a triangular mokku design in the traditional sarees. On the reverse side of the saree, a fresh warp thread is twisted around each field warp, and then the green wrap is cut off after the two threads have been woven together. The designer sarees are now in trend, which are made by amalgamating exclusive designs with traditional and ethical motifs and patterns.
The fancy sarees often fuse patch work with embroidery, traditional motifs with the usage of vibrant colored fabrics. the motifs, patterns and fabrics of different regions are combined to create a stylized version of modern fancy sarees. The brilliant concept of the designers is manifested in their dexterous creations of exclusive sarees. Even the modern brides wear sarees that are designed by the designers, which have a trendy look with the added traditional tint. The designers create exclusive sarees that are extensively filled with zardosi work in chiffon and Georgette fabrics and are often embellished with stones, beads, and other decorating materials.
Fashion sarees woven in Nadu display the modern trend with the traditional touch. Most of these sarees are woven on power looms. Their supplementary-warp and-weft embellishments are often evocative of the older, white-and-gold, narrow-bordered sarees.

One most important sarees of Banaras is the Banarasi saree. The history of Banarasi saree dates back to the Mughal era when the fame and appreciation of Banarasi silk sarees of India reached the zenith of success. The progression of time and the involvement of different groups of artisans in the weaving sector have caused a subtle change in the patterns and motifs of Banarasi sarees. The excellent amalgamation of Indian and Persian patterns are created and the sarees got a new look and glamour.
The Banarasi saree has a rich variation and the Banaras brocade sarees vary tremendously because weavers create different products to suit different regional markets and changing fashions. Moreover, though the Banaras sarees have a wide variation, several weaving and design characteristics distinguish them from other Indian brocades. The designs and patterns of the Banarasi silk sarees differ as the supplementary thread designs, including dense border patterns, are almost always woven as discontinuous supplementary-weft with the highly decorated endpiece or pallu. These endpieces usually end abruptly in a strip of unembellished cloth 15 to 40 centimeters long. The designs, and consequently the threads, are usually extremely fine, with thread sizes ranging from medium to the finest on the market. There are exceptions, but most Banarasi brocades usually have strong Mughal design influences. This particular Banarasi sarees are designed with intricate intertwining floral and foliate motifs, kalga and bel. According to the creativity and the tradition, the artisans create different designs including buti, buta, jaal that are typical to Banaras brocades. A characteristic motif found along the inner and sometimes outer edges of borders is a narrow fringe-like pattern that often looks like a string of upright leaves, called 'zjhaalar' or frill.
Most Banaras brocade motifs are densely patterned and look three-dimensional, quite unlike the static, two-dimensional quality of Deccan and south Indian brocades. Traditional Banaras sarees are usually found in light colors that are which may be quite pale compared to western and southern Indian silk. Throughout the twentieth century there has also been a class of Banaras brocade that are embellished with patterns from distinctly western design schools that range from mid-Victorian Naturalist through to late twentieth-century Modernist.
besides the excellent bridal silk sarees, the sarees of Banaras fall into several categories. The types of Banaras sarees include opaque zari brocades, Amni brocades, Kincab brocades etc. Though silk is predominantly used in making sarees in Benaras, fabrics like Organza, with zari and silk, pure silk saree, Georgette and Shattir are used in creating exclusive and modernised Banaras sarees. Apart from the traditional Banarasi sarees, several other sarees are also woven in Banaras and these are known as Banarasa sarees as they are woven here. Banaras silk Jamdani, jangla saree, Jamawar Tanchoi saree, Tissue saree, cutwork Saree, Butidar saree etc are created with great excellence and creative exuberance that suit the repute of Banaras.
The authenticity and ethnic look of Indian costumes are reflected in a women when she is clad in an intricately designed traditional saree of Banaras.

Sambalpuri textile is fabricated using tie and dye method. The craftsman conceptualizes the design, draws it and according to the design, he colors the yarn, all by hand. It represents the life and gives a message "Your body may wear but the soul lives for ever". the fabrics once colored cannot be bleached. The fabric may get thin and gradually damage but the color still does not fade. The fabric is both silk and cotton. These sarees have an appealing form, workmanship, design and color combination.
The maheshwari saree of Madhya Pradesh has an unusual origin for it is traced to a benevolent queen who once ruled over that territory and designed the first saree.

Procedure of making Maheshwari sarees
the artisans make the cotton thread by high reeling and weave cloth. The method of dying is practiced by making vegetable dyes from the locally available plants mainly of Katha color. The border of the sarees and motifs are woven with the colorful thread which are dyed by the local method. the clothes are quite durable and the motifs are quite peculiar.
Designs of Indian sarees are divided into three that are the longitudinal borders; the end piece; and the field. Estimating the social status, regional identity and community of a women, the designs and the patterns of a saree is constructed for certain colors and motifs are region and community specific. Its size and elaboration are the indication of a family's wealth because added ornamentation takes more weaving time, and so adds to the saree's cost. Motifs in Indian sarees have often been derived from temple architectures, sculpture, painting and literature.
Borders usully extend the full length of the saree either as a woven design created by contrasting supplementary warp or- weft weaving through the wrap threads being a different color to the wrap making the field or by printing or embroidery. Most of the regions, and even town and villages, have their own traditional distinctive borders. In some states like west Bengal, weavers are specialised in specific designs. Even though the width of borders tends to follow the present fashion rather than tradition, the regional origins of many border designs can still be recognized for their exclusivity. The well ornamented and costly sarees have larger and more elaborate end-pieces or pallu in comparison to the less costly ones. The sarees are created keeping in mind the draping styles and the occasional usage. The saree's field is also embellished according to regional rules. In many part of India the saree's field are decorated with woven designs, embroidery or printing for the purpose of wedding ceremony. Following the tradition, artisans of some states make the field of the saree unadorned.
The designs of Indian sarees have now taken a new form as the artisans create a fusion of tradition and modern trend. This amalgamation has made the sarees achieve a height of appreciation in the modern market.

Bridal Sarees are given a lot of emphasis in Indian families. It ranges from few thousand to few lakhs of rupees. Sarees today have a lot of embroidery and embellishments done on them. They come in various varieties and styles. Zari, sequence, embroidery, zardosi, organza, cut work, mirror work, patch work, pearl work, kasab, kundan, are all diverse kinds of work, which are available in saree. Earlier it was compulsory for Indian brides to wear heavy Benarasi sari on the wedding day but now it is not so but still the brides to prefer wear saris for their wedding. Although the style and embroidery of saree have changed, they have become much trendier and light. Earlier much more heavy work was used, while now the style is rich as well as sleek and light in fabric, The wedding sari and bridal sari is given a lot of importance in India. Indian saris are available in different fabrics from cotton to silk and from Georgette to crapes.
Jewellery noticeably highlights the look of the bride but the wedding saree is given a lot of emphasis. In India there is no greater event in a family than a wedding. Wedding saree can range from a few thousand to a few lac concerned. This is because every part of India manufactures its own peculiar style in terms of the weaves, embroidery and fabric.
The most expensive are considered the south silk ones that are woven with pure gold. In fact it is said that if one had to remove the gold threads and melt them then anything from a few grams to almost a kilo of gold can be produced. Apart from the traditional prints and weaves, nowadays designers are creating new and innovative designs. They also are changing the approach the Indian saree is draped over the shoulder. It all depends on the kind of work done what is known as the Pallu- this is that part of the saree, which is placed over the shoulders.
Today saris have a lot of work done on them. Zari, organza, embroidery, zardosi, sequence, mirror work, cut work, patch work, kasab, pearl work, kundan, are all different kinds of work, which reducorate the saree. In India some professionals offer Bridal Trousseau Packing services for Indian bridal sarees. In these services wedding sarees and other items of the wedding trousseau are neatly packed into suitcases and decorated.

An outstanding feature of Indian costume is the bright hues and fine textures of the clothes. A rather attire is as diverse as its subcultures. Every region is distinct in its language, lifestyle and food and this diversity is reflected in its traditional dressing as well. For example, a half sari worn to college in the southern states is completely different from the dressing norms followed in northern India. Intermingling due to social changes and improvement in communication has managed to give India a pan-Indian look. However, people from all subcultures are slowly adapting to a more homogeneous way of dressing.
Traditional Costumes
Traditional cloths are still worn during traditional ceremonies or in the interior pockets of the country. Traditional costumes in India primarily depend on the climate and natural fibers grown in a region. For instance, in the cold northern state of Jammu & Kashmir, people wear a thick loose shirt called a phiran to keep the warm; whereas in the tropical warmth of south India, men wear a sarong like garment called the mundu, while women drape 5 meters of cloth around their bodies in the graceful folds of the saree, the national dress of Indian women.
In the state of Rajasthan and Gujarat which are rather dry, the men wear a dhoti around their lower limbs and a kurta, which is a shirt-like garment on the upper part of the body. The Rajasthani men are also known for the colorful turbans that they wear. Thier heads are covered by a cloth made of fine cotton known as the Odhna or the duptta. The state of Punjab is famous for the renowned Phulkari work which is seen woven on the shawls, worn over a blouse known as the choli and a long skirt called the ghaghra. In urban India, women, commonly wear the salwar kameez or the churidar and the saree is worn on formal occasions. Men wear kurtas and pajamas, or a sherwani for formal wear. Men these days usually wear a trouser along with a shirt.
The most common costume worn by Indian women, in fact the national dress of Indian women, is the saree. It is a six yard cloth which is draped in different styles in different regions. This is shaped by the lifestyle and the religious inclination. The urban Indian style is by far the most common. Stiff tangails, flowing silks, elegant chiffons and heavy brocades, all of them can be easily maneuvered into this style. The ladies generally use the pallav (edge) of the saree to cover their heads. For the men, the common traditional outfits are the Kurtas Pajamas. Lungis and Dhotis are also worn by Indian men. Usually the lungi is worn in many parts of India like south India, but depending on the social practics of the region it may be restricted to indoor wear. A sherwani is generally worn for special occasions. The men also use turbans and caps of various types. The Muslim use a different cap from those in the northeast and the sikh turban forms an essential part of his identity and is very different from the ones worn by others on festive occasions.
Western Costumes
It is a point to note that while the traditional Indian costumes are still largely worn by a vast majority of people in the country, the spread of globalization and cross-cultural has also led to the popularity of traditional costumes in the country. A majority of the Indian popularity today follow the western mores when it comes to dressing. thus the men can be seen dressed in pants, t-shirts, shirts and jeans, the women may be variously outfitted in jeans, tops, shirts, skirts and dresses. However, this style of dressing is mostely traditional style of dressing. Also during weddings, festivals and other occasions and celebrations, traditional costumes are the way to go all over the country.
Tribal Costumes
The Indian tribes use a particular dressing according to their native style. The women of Santhal tribe usually drape a white saree with red borders. The Meghval women wear puthia, while the Kumhar women dress much like the women of Gujjar tribe and wear a black and red-checkered saadi of thick woven fabric draped around the waist. The jogi women wear a chola as the upper garment, which is usually made of red printed fabric, the lower garment is a skirt made of katari chhint. Among the tribal communities of the north-east, such as the Mizos, the Manipuris, the Khasi tribe, the Naga tribe and the Arunachilis, the people are seen wearing beautifully colored woven clothing much like a sarong, and woven shawls which represent the identity of each tribal group, Similarly, there are many more Indian tribes who dress according to their deep rooted tradition.
Accessories
Accessorising a particular garment is a rather integral part of Indian dressing. costume accessories and costume jewellery are items that are widely used in India to complement fashion. Thus in India most women can be seen adorned in earrings, nose ornaments, rings, anklets and brightly colored bangles. Some paint a dot of color or apply a ready made Bindi, on their foreheads. The bindi is also a fashion statement and may be matching to the color of the dress.
Thus the great diversity of the country is seen reflected in the dressing style of the different people. the variety of Indian costumes is immense, and the style of dressing and costume of a person goes a long way in indicating his ethnicity, region, religion and sub-culture in India.

The traditional garment worn by the women of kerala is the 'mundum neriyathum'. the conventional piece is the 'mundu' which is the lower garment and it consists of two cloth pieces. The 'mundu' around the hips and beneath the navel. This hand-woven cloth made of cotton, is very comfortable to wear in the summer season. The cloth is creamy or white in color and possesses a colored strip called border or 'Kara'. the women of kerala wear mundu in this way except for the women of Christian origin. For them, the mundu is folded up in multiple folds and this part is hung at the back. Over the mundu, women take on a special type of blouse, covering the navel.
The 'neriyathu' is the name of the upper garment which is put over the blouse having one of its ends inserted in the mundu and the other long end worn over the front torso. this is worn in a diagonal way, from the right hips to the left shoulder looking like a saree. both the neriyathu and mundu is stiffened and then worn with a blouse matching the bordes or kara's color. This costume is worn every day and in the festive seasons people wear the same but with an ornamental 'kara' or a border which is either copper coated, golden or artificial colored with temple or peacock design. the color of the blouse is decided by the marital status and age of the women. unmarried young keralite girls take on green blouse. At the time of the celebration of the famous of Onam, women belonging to different age groups wear it and participate in the folk dance known as 'Kaikotti Kali Dance'.
the women belonging to the muslim community in kerala, more particularly in the northern and central regions of kerala, take on a long dark black or blue garment along with purdah and also cover up their abundant and long hair with beautiful kerchief.
The mundum neriyathum was the traditional costume of the kerala. But today, it has become an old fashion and is mostly worn by the old women of the state. Nowadays, it is being taken over by the set-sari which has become the dress of the Keralite women as a quasi mundum neriyathum and today as the kerala sari. Nowadays, they are mostly seen attired in sari and blouse.
Costume Worn By Men of Kerala
The men are conservative than the women. In keeping with the old traditional of Kerala they wear white, which was once universal for both sexes. Their main garment is the long cloth called mundu, which is tucked at the waist and reached to the ankle, giving its wearer a peculiar mincing walk, unless, to stride more freely, he kilts it to the knees. Many men wear no garment above the waist, but those who belong to the higher castes at least drape a towel-like cloth over the shoulders, and if they consider themselves modern they wear shirt which, like the mundu, are always washed to a dazzling whiteness. The garb is worn by men of all religions and all classes, except for the small westernized minority who have gone over to bush shirt and cotton slacks. the poor people of Kerala live simply from necessity, but their wealthier compatriots make simplicity a cult, so that among Malayalis one rarely sees the ostentation which in northern India is almost regarded as a duty of the rich. The local traditions set a value on eating sparingly and doing without elaborate furniture; one may wear fine rather than coarse cotton, but one does not wear silk.
The traditional wear of the Hindu men residing in the state of Kerala is Kasavu Mundu. This dress is very much popular in the rural or remote areas. This attire is a piece of cloth made of cotton, three to four meter long having a silk border. Lungy or Kaily acts as an informal dress for Keralite men. But while moving out of their house, these men take on a shirt and mundu as well as a neriyathu over their shoulder and apply a paste of sandal on their chest and brows which provides them a much dignified appearance and a royal look.
The Keralite Muslim wear the same but they just wear an additional cap over their head. The Muslim style of wearing mundu is somewhat dissimilar to that of the Christian and Hindu Keralites.
Daily wear of the people of Kerala
The daily use garments for the people of Kerala are saris and churidar or salwar-kameez for women and for men, trousers and shirts. The western type of dressing is also well-known among the generation of the young.
With continuous change in designing and fashion, the dress codes of the Keralites have changed considerably. The traditional form of dressing is reserved for special occasions and the women and men of today's Kerala are seen wearing a range of dresses. The people of this state have accepted the northern mode of dressing with wearing trousers and tea-shirts which is a comfortable item for travel and their female counterparts have accepted the churidar of north Indian style.
The primary fiber used in North India is cotton. However, since this part of India experiences winter, woolen cloths are quite common as well. In fact it is quite interesting to note the variety of traditional and daily wears in North India alone. The costumes of Jammu and Kashmir are made of wool, silk with intricate embroideries and cotton. In these mountainous regions, the traditional 'pheran' is the most popular form of dressing among both men and women. the 'pathani' suit, also referred to as 'khan-dress', is a popular garb among the men, especially in Srinagar. Costumes of himachal Pradesh are different for each community, be it the Hindu Brahmins, the Rajputs, and the tribal people. The soothing suppleness of the renowned Pashmina shawl is the specialty of the handlooms of Himachal Pradesh. Western influence is visible on the costumes of the younger generation of Himachal Pradesh these days. Punjab is famous for the 'phulkari' shawls that are worn with a tight-fitting choli and gaghra. Jeans, jackets, Trousers, skirts and other form of western outfit are worn among women of Panjab. But still the popular or universal form of dress material stands out to be still what punjabi culture is known for salwar kameez, saree and sharara. The traditional costumes of Delhi are churidar or salwar kameez dupatta for women and kurtas and pyjamas for men. Salwar-suits with sequined embroidery or semi-precious stones 'embroidery, mirror work, zari work, prints, hand paints, all alluring on excellent fabric is the characteristic of salwar-kameez in Delhi these days.
Costumes of East and Central India
Sarees are common in the eastern and central India. The costumes of West Bengal reflect the states cosmopolitan culture. For the men in West Bengal, the the traditional garment is the Dhoti and the Panjabi. the Lungi is another variation of the dhoties worn by men in West bengal. In Bengal, a section the saree is wrapped around the waist and the remaining portion is swathed over the shoulder. The salwar kameez is nowadays equally popular among the bengali women as the sarees. costumes of bihar are very traditional. Women mostely wear saree and men stick to Dhoti and Kurta. Costumes of Madhay pradesh shows multiplicity in various aspects. The majority of the people of madhay Pradesh attest Dhoti is their traditional costume. Safa, a kind of turban, is the headgear, which is the common feature of Madhay Pradesh's costume. The women folk of madhay Pradesh dress themselves in lehenga and choli. Bandhani cloth is produced on a huge scale in maundsar, Indore and Ujjain. the delicate chanderi sarees and maheshwari sarees produced in Madhhay Pradesh are hand-woven, and they are quite renowned all over India.
Costumes of North east India
The Indian state costumes of the North East India stand apart. Ankle length skirts, jackets and traditional caps are a huge draw for the tourists. The costumes of mizoram bear conspicuous resemblance with that of the other hill-states of the Northeast. Puanchei, the gorgeous attire of Mizo girls is a must during wedding, and festivals. Costumes in the state of Meghalaya show the ethnicity of the tribes namely the Garos, Khasi and the Jaintias. The women drape eking, a short cloths round the waist, while the men put in a loincloth. Muga or the golden silk fiber of Assam constitutes the lion's share of the costumes of Assam. traditional costumes of Assam is called mekhla chadar. Costumes of Nagaland mainly comprise shawls which are an extensively used item of the state. costumes of Andhra Pradesh reflects the cultural and ethnic way of life of the tribal people residing there. Accessories are a must for any women, be she a tribal or a city-girl. The females beautify them with silver rings, earrings cut from bamboo-bits and appended with red beads or lovely turuoises.
Costumes of West India
Costume of Western India are also quite varied and fascinating. costume of Maharashtra comprises a nine yard saree called Nauvari as the traditional costume for the women, and dhoti and shirt as the traditional costume of the men folk. the fabric of Nouvari saree is usually cotton, and for special occasions, silk tops the prioprity list. paithani sarees happen to be the treasured creation of Maharashtra's textile-industry. The men of Maharashtra upload Dhoti as their cultural heritage. It may be worn along with a shirt or kurta, and Dhoti is often substituted with trousers. They also wear bandi over the shirt and turban called pheta and pagadi. costumes of Rajasthani inhabitants are colorful, gaudy, bright and elegant. While pagari, angarakha, dhotis, payjamas, kamarband or patka form integral part of a male's attire; the female's attire includes ghaghara, kurti or choli and odhani.
costumes of South India
south India enjoys a warm climate; hence the Indian state costumes in this region are primarily made of cotton are light. Sarees for women and dhoti like attires for men are quite common. In fact state like Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala are renowned for their silk and cotton sarees. Costumes of Karnataka consist of regal silk sarees, which happen to be the traditional costumes of this place. bengaluru and Mysore are the epicenters of silk industries in South India. The kanjeevaram or Kanchipuram silks, of Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu, dazzle the eye with the rich texture, colors, and fabulous designs. The traditional form of dress worn by the people of Kerala are 'Mundu and Neriathu' for the men; and saree and jacket for women. Costumes of Andhra Pradesh is saree and blouse for women, and Dhoti and kurta for women, and Dhoti and kurta for men. The women of all communities together with Muslims wear Sarees and blouses. Some Muslim women also put on salwar kameez dupatta.
India is a land of festivities as well. Besides the traditional dresse there are special attires for the festivals. On the other hand there are certain Indian state costumes that are worn in almost all part of the country but the styles differ. For instance, salwaar kameez, Punjabis and others are worn in most of the states. Costumes and accessories go hand in hand in India. Small pieces of ornaments are worn alon with the Indian state costumes on a regular basis.
Traditional Jodhpuri suit is amongst the finest suits available to append a delicate look to your personality. A Jodhpuri suit can be said to be a superb mixture of Indian tastes as well as Western tastes. Jodhpuri suits are perfect for weddings and parties. They can be worn with neclaces, turbans, vests, so as to add a style statement to it. They bring out the legacy of Cultural Indian craft. They can be embroidered with bead work as well as sequin, which goes quite well with colour contrast. You can thus cast your charismatic spells on people, by showing, how you appreciate and admire Indian Culture.
Diwan Saheb is a leading name in providing stylish and elegant traditional Indian clothing. Wide range of Indian wear like the traditional Jodhpuri suit is available with us and you can also get it customized as per your personal taste and preferences. Select the colour and pattern that goes best with your personality and look extremely good.
Indian Clothing a Beautiful Representation of a Life Style
The sari is maybe the best known piece of women Indian clothing. It consists of a wide strap of cloth several yards long, and wrapped around the body with pallu on the shoulder depending on the place where the wearer lives, their social status, and personal preference. Saris are generally made of light silk or cotton, and they are richly dyed and decorated. In the attempt to create an ever more comfortable piece of clothing, women have refined the art of draping and pinning a sari passing the secrets from one to another.
The most often encountered Indian clothing for men consists of the dhoti and kurta, which are worn mostly in the western and central regions of the country. A sherwani is a type of Indian clothing specific to special occasions. Men living in Northern India and the Punjab may wear, just as the women, salwar kameez, most often made out of plain white cotton, and the top, the kameez, matched in male dress with a dark waistcoat. The lungi, a type of garment to be wrapped around, is worn in many parts of India, but it may be restricted to indoor-wear, depending on the social habits of the region.
Indian clothing is known for its comfort, grace and elegance, that is why it is so popular all over the world. Another specific element of the Indian clothing is the fact that the lines become blurred when it comes to fashion; there is more a unisex wardrobe than an exclusive line of clothes for her or him. With an emphasis on good looks, men and women integrate different Indian clothing trends, blending the traditional/Indian with the modern/Western style in a fusion that becomes a trademark for a style of clothing.
Costume for Indian women have seen a wide range of changes in forms, patterns, colors and ways of draping. Although the traditional wear of Indian women are sarees, today Indian women wear designer dress adorned with urban styles. Out of all the various range of costumes for the Indian women, salwar kameez is definitely an all time favorite. Another competitor is chaniya choli popularly known as lehenga choli. New arrivals include sharara, garara and lancha with tight fitting tops rather than usual choli with deep side cuts, which give a chic look. Such costumes are the latest Indian trends, which give a choice for the Indian women to experiment with a complete variety of looks.The saree is a costume par excellence among the costumes of the entire world and the innumerable modes of wearing it offers to its wearer are really amazing. On first thought, it may seems that fashions in the saree style of dress have not much scope-it is basically a covering garment or a drape-and that there has been hardly any change in the mode of wear, but a closer observation would reveal that changes in fabrics, woven designs, embroidery, printing and dyeing have provided scope for unlimited fashions in sarees. A saree is not an anatomic costume; all can wear it and fold it according to their preferences, by adjusting its length and breadth to suit wearer dimension. The development of the saree style in India and the factors that have influenced the woman's wardrobe tell a story of aesthetic and socio-economic progress resulting in the simplification and standardization of woman's dress to a large extent.
Saree were very much in fashion in a traditional Indian wedding. Even in today's wedding functions woman prefers to wear saries in different styles. fashion designers have come up with new ways to drape wedding saries, which are quite popular among today's woman. Saries always had a sensuous and elegant look at the same time. The wedding saree or bridal saree is given a lot of importance in India. Indian saries come in different fbrics from cotton to silk, from georgettes to crapes, from traditional like banarasi to kanjeevaram or a silk. Wedding saris are given a lot of emphasis in Indian family. It ranges from few thousands to few lakhs of rupees.
Saris today have lot of work done on them. they come in various varieties and styles. Zari, embroidery, organza, zardosi, sequence, cut work mirror work, patch work, pearl work, kasab, kundan, are all different kinds of work, which are found in saree. earlier it was compulsory for Indian brides to wear heavy benarasi saree for her wedding but now it is not so but still brides are preferring to wear saris for their wedding, however the styles and embroidery has changed. earlier it was lot more heavy work and rich now it is lot more sleek and light in fabric.
when women wear the salwar kameez, they usually wear a long scarf or shawl called a dupatta around the head or neck. for muslim women, the dupatta is a less stringent alternative to the chador or burqa. For Hindu women, the dupatta is useful when the head must be covered, as in a temple or the presence of elders. for other women, the dupatta is simply a stylish accessory that can be worn over one shoulder or draped around the chest and over both shoulders.
the modern women also wear jeans and other kinds of westernized dresses like gowns and frocks in varied designs and patterns. Indian costume for women has an unimaginable ground of creativity and innovation, where one can dress according to her taste and preference. Starting from saree to the modern dresses, Indian women portray elegance and smartness in every form and costumes for Indian women today has reached the zenith of artistry. various fashion shows and exhibition are best evidences to prove the art of costumes for Indian women.
The discussion on the costume and its various categories can easily throw a glimpse of a country's culture and tradition. in literal sense, the word costume refers to attires or a distinctive style of dressing of a specific class of people in a particular period. it refers to the creative array of accessories in a picture, statue, poem, or play. It should be apt for particular time, place or other situations. Costume also denote those special attires that a person wears to embellish his beauty and glory during social event like masquerade, a or in an arty dramatic concert.
costume can be categorized into broad groups and these are as follows:-
Theatrical costumes: this type of costume is seen in movies, plays and dramatic performances. Theatrical costume is seen in movies, play and dramatic performances. Theatrical costume nicely portrays varied aspects of the personality of the character that an artist wants to depict, such as profession, class belonging, gender etc. informations regarding the time period, geographical location etc too can be emphasized with the help of costume designing.
National costume: it is also known as regional costume, thus communicating special traits of any culture. It is also linked to the pride of any nation. to cite examples, a japanese can be acknowledged by its kimono while Scotsman is recognized by its 'kilt'.
Specials costumes are made for children. They are very colorful and fancy. To them costumes can provide immense pleasure and amusement of role-playing. Children can be decked up in a varied fashion. By experimenting with costumes they can simulate the popular historical and fictional characters, such as pirates, princesses or cowboys. By wearing special customs they want to look like animals in zoos or enjoy playing the roles of professionals like nurses or police officers.
Dressing like Mascoat, too was in fashion. These wearable are used for sports like footballs, basketballs etc. Animal costumes, which are visually very similar to mascoat costume, are also popular among the members of the 'furry fandom' where they are known as 'fursuits'.
In any civilized society, costume is not only a basic necessity, beautiful dresses and accessories also add to the esthetic appeal and glorifies one's personality and charisma.
The most familiar dress for indian men is dhoti. It is basically a rectangular piece of unstitched fabric, usually five yards of length and is draped around the waist and the legs. known as veshti in tamil, laacha in panjabi, mundu in malayalam, pancha in telugu and dhotar in marathi it has become a style mark for Indian men. In various regions of India, dhoti is being worn with inimitable fashion. In northern region of India, the garment is usually worn with kurta on top. This combination is better known as dhoti kurta or dhuti panjabi in the eastern region. In southern part of the country, the garment is specially associated with wedding ceremonies and other joyous festivals. The participants of a south indian wedding, including the groom deck up in the traditional pancha while performing the ceremonies. Silk panchas are also known as magatam or pattu pancha in several places of southern india. For bengali grooms, off-white dhuti is very popular. Another dress which ennobles the wealth of indian clothing is sherwani. Lungi is a particular type of cloth that is wrapped around the waists. this is a casual dress mainly worn by men at home.
The most popular traditional indian clothing for women is saree. It is a long piece of cloth made from fine cotton, silk or other fabrics, weaving in diffrent grains with different designs. The saree has a lasting charm, adding elegance and beauty of an Indian woman. The color and textural appropriateness vary with the age, status and region, though it is worn in almost every occasion. The well fitted, short blouse is called a choli. There types too are as divergent as the style of wearing and wrapping. Another popular attire of women in indian clothing is the indian salwaar kameez. In northern region of india, salwar kameez is really very popular and in high demand. it can be made up of different materials and diverse designs. It is getting wide acceptance among indian women in all the regions. Sometimes, instead of salwar a women often wear a churidar. A churidar is a type of trouser, tightly fitted at the portion like hips, thighs and ankles. one can wear a kurta above it.
indian clothing too constitutes very colorful dresses, highlighting their magnificence and grandeur. rajasthani and gujarati women, especially, dress in multicolored twirling skirts called lehenga, matching nicely with a short top called a choli. As a part of their traditional practices they cover their heads with beautiful veils, popularly known as odhani. India is an abode of various communities. Each one of them dress up according to their own fashion and tradition, thus, enriching the trend of indian clothing. indian clothing is as varied and enriched as the whole demographical variation of the country itself, keeping intact its originality and beauty.
Traditional Indian wedding dresses are quite different from western style of wedding attire. The Indian wedding dresses are generally bright in colors preferable red, orange, blue, rust, pink, peach, magenta, maroon or green. one of the main features of traditional Indian wedding dresses is that they are embellished with gorgeous needlework. However, nowadays the Indian bridal dresses have come in some really beautiful varieties and in custom made designs and cuts. gorgeous and colorful are the two words that could be ascribed to a traditional Indian wedding dress. Indian brides sparkle and shine on her special day and this expectation is totally credited to the bright outfit, excellent make up, perfect accessories, unique jewellery and so on. Indian wedding traditional dresses are generally brightly colored and wonderfully embellished ensembles. Thus, beautiful Indian wedding dresses can make the bride look beautiful if perfectly suited.
Types of Traditional Indian Wedding Dresses

A saree is a piece of cloth wrapped around the body in a very intricate pattern. Today, women prefer to wear bridal sarees available in diverse styles. On the other hand, lehenga choli typically comprises a long skirt and a short blouse. A lengthy scarf with rich embellishments is called a dupatta. All these traditional wedding dresses are made of bright colors with heavy embellishment and embroideries.
However, their is one similarity among all these wedding dresses. All the different types of wedding dresses are elaborated and embroidered intricately. Indian wedding dresses can also have some designs with gold or silver wire if it suits the budget. The most common fabrics used in traditional Indian wedding dresses are silk, chiffon, satin, and other fabrics those have shine and reflect light. In addition to the wedding dress, there are some element of wedding wear that are crucial to and adorn the beauty of the wedding attire an Indian bride. These accessories include necklaces, rings, earring, bracelets, etc. This type of immense ornamentation is a traditional part of the wedding collection. Although trendier designs are now coming into fashion, the traditional pieces have not lost its color.
Red is still one of the favorite colors for traditional Indian wedding dresses. Since this color has religious and significance, this choice is likely to stay for a real long time. Designer wedding dresses are coming up with a greater collection with more intricate designs, choosing the right wedding dress needs great attention and care. Careful planning and right choice can avoid unwanted situation like broken embellishments, unsuitable color and misfit.
Traditional Indian wedding dresses are said to be the most stunning and glamorous wedding dresses. The traditional Indian wedding dresses are beautiful pieces with fine embroidery and embellishment.
Each and every bride dream of her wedding day and wish to look the best on the day. No doubt that bridal make up is an important part of bridal dressing. Along with the shinning jewellery and an elegant wedding dress the make up is also very crucial. If the make up is done appropriately, it can mar the overall look of the bride.
Make up Ideas before wedding day
Firstly, it is very essential to find out the right kind of make up that would suit and compliment the brides style and skin tone. Some of the basic ideas for a bride that she can follow before the arrival of her special big day are as follows-
- The bride should go for a hair, skin and nail care regimen at around four weeks before the big day.
- Going for regular facials and manicures is also very important. Moreover, the would be bride can take the suggestion from the beautician about the beauty products that suits her skin type.
- The bride should try and avoid going out in the sun as much as possible. if she has to go out for work, she must use a good quality sun-block.
- For those who are working ladies, they should go for a relaxing massage once in a week. If possible, she must try to attend at least one aromatherapy session before her wedding day.
Make Up ideas for wedding day
First and foremost, one should try to synchronize the make up with the wedding outfit and wedding jewellery.
- If one opts for heavy bridal jewellery, the make should be kept to minimal and light.
- Bridal make-up also varies and depends on the time of the wedding. For example for the evening occasions, one should go for heavy make up looks.
- It is said that bridal make-up should be heavy but it should not be heavier or kind of dramatic otherwise it will one look like a doll.
- Use some heavy-pigmented foundations after that it should be layered with powdered foundations. It will help in making the skin look smoother. Don't forget to apply powder foundation on the neck. A concealer will help in blend for very well.
- If the bride has a combination skin then water based foundation can be used.
- concealer should be used for hiding under eye circles. One must remember that the eye make-up should be balanced with the lip make up.
- Select a lip-liner that is of the same shade as of the lipstick.
- Further, one must apply a translucent powder as it prevents in too much shine of the face.
These are some of the basic make up tips for the wedding day. The make-up should be done in such a way that it compliments the attire of the bride.