Like many other apparel-art
and design, salwaar kameez or Kurta too is a gift to the Indian
traditional wear by the great Mughals. In their custom, both men
and women enjoyed this apparel cut in long flowing panels. Elaborately
embroidered with real gold and silver threads, studded with precious
gemstones, those Kurtas of the Mughals weighed nothing less than
5-10 kilos. As time passed, the modifications were made according
to the comfort and affordability of the people. Though the source
of inspiration remains the same old Mughal fashion, many changes
are seen in today’s style of Salwaar Kurta. It is a main women’s
apparel among the north Indians. However its comfort and easy-to-maintain
qualities has made it universally popular. They are worn both
in winters and summers. The material for the summer and winter
salwaar kameez changes suiting the weather conditions. Summer
welcomes crisp and light cottons, while winter gives way to all
heavy and thick materials. In present time, the most popular style
of salwaar Kurta for women is the A-line cut style; this gives
a good shape and comfort to body. The style popular among men
is the straight cut with side pockets. The prints commonly seen
on this apparel in summers are block print and tie and dye of
Rajasthan and Gujarat. The hand embroidered ‘chikankari’ of Lucknow
is also very popular for it’s traditional rich look and values.
The winter Kurtas are in silk, satin, and other thick materials.
Handloom material however suits both the times.
