From Regional to Global- The Journey of Popularity of Salwar Kameez

 

 

The diversity of India is visible in the different types of clothing being worn by the people of different regions. The traditional dresses of women in different parts of India bear the influences of folklore and culture which has evolved over a period of time. Salwar Kameez is one such popular garment of women in northern parts of India, particularly Punjab. The salwar kameez, also called Shalwar Kameez, has been the traditional garment of the people not only in India, but also in adjoining Pakistan and even Afghanistan.  Though it is essentially worn by women from these regions, even the men folks also wear similar salwar in their daily and party wear.

A salwar is essentially a loosely fitted garment worn as a bottom wear. This piece of clothing does not involve too much pleats, like a Patiala salwar, but is loose nevertheless. It is loose at waist but fits well on ankle. It is gathered at ankles. It enables the women to move around freely while carrying out their daily chores. At the same time, during the harsh summers, these provide the much needed respite due to the loose fitting. Further, the choice of fabric in making salwaars depends on seasons and the occasion for which it is being made. For the summer season, the cottons are generally used which allow air to pass through, preventing discomfort from sweat and heat. Similarly, for the winters, these are made from other fabrics as well which prevent escape of body heat, allowing retention of warmth.

The Kameez is worn as a top wear garment. The styling of a kameez is different for men and women but the same name is used to denote the top wear garment of the men as well as women folk. The main style features of a kameez for women are its side slits, different designs of neckline, hemline and sleeve length. But, for men, the kameez is generally a full sleeve garment with side slits and collars.

The popularity of Salwar Kameez is not restricted only to Indian Punjab, Pakistan and Afghanistan. Rather, it is worn all over the country. This has also been made quite famous overseas by the Indian community living in those countries. The people of Indian-subcontinent origin, particularly from Indian Punjab and Pakistan, have made this extremely popular in countries like United Kingdom, United State of America, Australia and elsewhere. Nowadays, people from India and abroad can buy salwar kameez online through any of the famous ecommerce portals. This has further made it more accessible to overseas Indians.