Salwar Kameez

Indian dresses always have a demand in the international fashion market because of its unique and outstanding styles and types of garments. While the saree is considered sensuous attire, the other commonly worn Indian garment is the salwar kameez.

This garment is essentially a three-piece attire consisting of:

-Salwar (bottom, or the pajama)

-Kameez (top, also known as kurta)

-Duppata (scarf)

Generally the salwar kameez is long, going below the knees. It is straight and has two slits on either side. The salwar is flared with a horizontal band at the end. The duppata or scarf is rectangle in shape and worn in front with the sides falling at the back from over the shoulders. This is the basic description of what a salwar kameez usually is. However, there are modifications of this garment in terms of the length of the kameez.

Post 1970s the salwar kameez styles seemed to have expanded to uncountable numbers. In fact very rarely would one come across people wearing common designs and patterns. The variations were in the fabrics being used, the kind of work being done, as well as the cuts. Apart from the straight-cut kameez, there the frock styles of varying lengths – short, knee length, as well as those that flow down to the ankle. 

Tradition always had an impact on Indian fashion. First came the Indian sari, which will always be a fashion statement, then came the ‘Indian salwaar kameez’ or Indian salwar khameez.

The salwar is preferred and is a favorite among the younger generation, as it is easier to carry out. Indian salwaar kameez is comfortable & fashion clothing for women and so it is worn at home & even outdoors. In other words, it is used for formal and casual occasions.

Salwar kameez designs 2010

After sarees, it is salwar kameez that is the most preferred outfit of women in India especially when it comes to ceremonies and celebrations. Salwar kameez designs are innumerable and sometimes because of this, it becomes difficult for one to choose the best design that is not just fits well but also is latest in trend!

Of all the different designs that are available, short and long Anarkali style of salwar kameez is still in vogue. It is the design of the kameez that is body fit from the upper torso and below turns into frock design below that makes a woman look elegant and graceful. Since it becomes like a frock, its circumference is increased by adding cloth below the knee. The A-line salwar kameez which is the standard style is an evergreen trend that will never fade. Most women in their forties prefer wearing A-line salwar kameez as it looks simple and elegant. As far as the duppatta goes, a variety of designs have been introduced. Crushed duppattas, embroidered duppattas, scarf-like duppattas are totally in style and are only going to be popular in the coming season.

Salwar kameez today are adorned with a lot of embroidery and sequence work. This beautiful attire is often enriched with beads, threads and zari work. Neatly done embroidered booties all over the front panel are also a feast to the eye. Patchwork and mix-matching in terms of material is also done quite often. Different colored Salwar and duppatta with neat patchwork designs on edges adds grace to a salwar kameez. Block printing is one salwar kameez design that is going a big way in 2010.
As far as the neck designs for a Salwar kameez go, there are endless possibilities.

Women are now experimenting with new neck designs ranging from deep necks to one side cut and even off-shoulder. This adds some freshness in terms of cuts to a Salwar kameez which is otherwise attire that women have worn since ages.  Crepe, cotton, silk, georgette and even jute and khadi are materials that are preferred while choosing a salwar kameez. Cotton salwar kameez are very light and cool and so they are ideal for summer season. Rich cotton salwar kameez are made of finest quality of cotton and this gives a very soothing effect. Silk salwar kameez are rich and they are worn to weddings and other occasions. Choose any Salwar kameez design that you like but make sure that it suits you and embellishes you.