Indo Western Outfits- Is It A Shift Away From Culture?

 

What defines a culture? Naturally, there are many elements which define a culture. And, one important element is that of the clothing. Since change is all pervasive in dynamic and democratic societies, culture is also not left untouched. Therefore, these are changes in culture as well. To what extent these changes affect the societal behavior largely determines the overall character of a country. In the context of Indian wear, it can be said that there has been a cultural shift from being an ultra-conservative society to a moderate and liberal society which welcomes all types of clothing styles, selects a few and assimilates the choicest of them all. By doing so, the change in the cultural pot-pourri of the country continues.

This shift in the general clothing-related behavior of the people began as the younger generation of the people began to slowly question of sticking to ethnic wear and began to appreciate what was good in the western clothing. This change slowly began to trickle into the society in the form of what is now famously called the indo western outfits. These outfits became popular because these provided a way to unshackle the conservative approach and adopt a more contemporary one which is more liberal and stresses independence of thought and action. So, it was not just a shift of clothing style. It was as much a shift to more freedom of choice. Quite a few decades have passes since this shift began to be seen among the masses and looking back at our culture now in no way suggests that it has been hampered or suffered a decline.

On the contrary, this seems to have enriched itself further, by assimilating this change. It has also been noticed in the younger generation that there is a greater liking for the traditional Indian clothing because of this adoption of the western clothing influences. You would not be surprised to find that the traditional wear elements, such as sarees, have again been picking up popularity as the new generation likes to wear these as a projection of their liking for their culture.

One thing is for sure. The advent and popularity of the indo western clothing culture has demonstrated that acceptance of change is the best way of appreciating cultural heritage and its elements.  This shows the maturity of the culture.