Monday, July 7, 2014

Salwar Suits and Indian traditional Fashion


Indian Salwars : Introduction

When it comes to Indian dresses a bit of modernization does transform the entire look of the person. Usually people go in for assorted sets for their daily wear and exclusive lines for the formal occasions. Whether it is a celebration or a special occasion, dressing up is the perfect way to join-in the festivity. This calls for coordinating the entire ensemble with accessories, footwear, bags or other kinds of Indianness. The make up can go for soft tones to real elaborate tricks in the sense dramatic happenings for the eyes, eye shadow or faux pas lashes.

The length of the kurtas is one thing that is never certain. The short kurtis haven't yet completely gone out of style and the Anarkali flow is still seen around. In case the model in short then it is necessary to give less layers to the garment. Stilettos or pencil heels is a personal choice but wedges or platforms are more comfortable options and then are less stress on the ankles and help to add to the inches. Whatever the salwar kameez pattern the perfect fit certainly matters.

The collared styles come in Chinese stand collars or the shirt dog collars that can end in huge button down pattern. The sleeves can be cap, loose flowing in cowl style or again the quintessential full sleeves. For slender figures, the formal silk brocade style is the best teamed with a churidar in gold or shiny fabric. Chemise satin, pure satin or silks is the choice of the winters and chikankari works, bandhni suits or mulmul dupattas go for the sultry summers.

A simple outfit can be adorned with embellishments or buttons. The Indian brooch is another way to clasp the dupatta or hold on to a small short jacket. There are hanging or dangling buttons in wood work, silver work, semi precious ones and other lacquer work which is a sure way to enhance the beauty of a printed dress or a real plain khadi suit. The contemporary style of khadi is in cottons, silks or jute. The yoke style is another catchy way to add brilliance to a simple pattern.

And the total style is brought out with the perfect hair cut, style and accessories. It is not wise to use attention seeking accessories like watches, hand bags or purses or real loud make up when the dress itself is a perfect designer wear and has all the elements of the latest salwar kameez. Many times a simple style works wonders.

The best Indian outfit is the salwar kameez which is neither bound by religion or geography. Suited for all vocations, the salwar kameez can be adapted to suit formal wear, party styles are regular comfort.
salwar suits are usually looked as a comfort garment but there are so many patterns that can be used as a makeover from the clichéd tent styles. Combining other elements like the perfect look, handbags, clutch purse, right lipstick and low maintenance hairstyle the salwar kameez has a lot to offer.

Winter specials in salwar suits are more about fabrics. This is also the time for occasions and merriment that captures the light heartedness of the season. The chill in the air can be matched with silks, crepes, linings with organza, tussar, polyester blends and heavy cottons. Jute is another fabric that can be used as yoke, pattern or borders. The real magic can be done with weaving a designer dupatta that is a stole, scarf, shawl or a normal dupatta that offers relief from cold.

Semi formal styles are the best buys as they can be easily swayed into casual regulars by the drape of a duppatta. Easily fluctuated as a formal style with the right accessory the semi formal style is full of grace to add more confidence to the personality. Usually ladies look for comfort in the garment and this is the best way to also add to the collection of other garments. Ethnic charm gets highlighted with Indian make up be it the kohl or kajal and huge jhumkas that finds its counterpart in chandelier earrings. The chappals or juttis is another addition to the traditional style.

Designs can be about the neck pattern that can be boat necked, rounds, tie backs, deep V's and also the sweetheart or square necks. The right cut and measurement is given by a good tailor though the model can suggest changes as per the comfort level. Trials are important also for regular styles as compromising on the fitting will mar your confidence. The sleeves can be the regular cap sleeves, tulip ones or sleeveless that suits slender arms or again the long sleeves with the right fit or the elbow length in tight style.

Fashion has fickle changes but if you are still comfortable with the patiala salwar then go ahead and maintain the same with real short chikankari kurits or tunics. Use beads that match with the scarf pattern but it is to be noted that contrast styles are in vogue. Go for slim fits, churidar tights, slacks and fluorescent hues for day wear.


----------

Punjabi Suits : The Punjabi salwar kameez is an ideal outfit for daily as well as traditional functions. There is simplicity in the style as it suits people of all ages. More charm can be added with trinkets, dangling little bells, sequins and mirror work. The best style has a surprise element which can be done in the form of a backless top or a low tie back kameez. There are more styles in using huge embroidery on the back of the dress and keeping the front simple. In case of a plain white salwar kammez there are more patterns in salwar suits than one can imagine.

White represents purity and is an embodiment of timeless beauty. It suits all skin colors and switches from casual outfits to ultra formal styles. In the day wear the Punjabi dress can be used in cotton for the benefit of getting reprieve from the sultry Indian summers. Adding more fabric work and yoke style, the same dress can be teamed with a self embroided overcoat, phulkari dupatta which is surely enough to promote enough confidence.

There are pretty styles in the regular and party wear for kids. Little girl's outfits in Punjabi salwar kameez's is full of zip wears, tucks and adjustable waistlines that is easily done with elastic. Using a bit of coordination with hairclips or bands and bangles alongwith matching bindi the tiny models look gorgeous. For the elderly too the Punjabi salwar kameez offers a great deal of conformability. Also suiting plus sizes, this is a dress that goes along with the figure or form of a person. A perfect maternity gown in Indian style is seen in flowing colors perfect with modern cuts and patterns.

The tiny top that comes as a tank top or spaghetti is a bold style of the salwar kameez. The pant style is more suited along with a flimsy dupatta which is more of a stole. Dangling long earrings in stone work, glass, kundan or traditional meena kari work would be essential for maintaining the traditional look or for a more sophisticated style a pair or diamond studs says it all.

Gone are the tent styles that envelope the form as salwar suits now come in the Chinese collar stand, heavy silks, khadi variety and teamed with the churidar offers grace and glamour to the model. The actual dress can be modified with make up skills and hair style to render yet another look which is perfect for the occasion.



Designer Suits and Kurtis :  Designer wear is certainly exclusive. There are special lines in black salwar suits that aid to give a special feel to formal occasions. Designers are experts in matters of cuts and styling and it is their exclusive pattern that catches the eye of the fashion conscious people. Designer wear is not just about wearing a salwar suit for the glamour occasions as there are regular outfits that capture the prevailing trend and lend a certain style to the not to style fabric.

Bridal designer salwar suits really spell magic. The entire show is conducted taking into consideration the other colors that match the style quotient of the bride and also the prevailing trends. One could also decide on the buys in a one to one chat with the store keeper in clearly understanding the style and not to repeat the colors in other garments or outfits. Designers go in for mix n match styles that break the monotony and clichéd matching styles.

Many designers are also linked with jewelry makers or accessories retailers and they actually display the entire collection. Festive times are sure buys and they offer discounts in off the season retail garments and designer kurtis wholesale. The model can actually insist the trial round which gives the complete meaning to the collection and enables the person to choose the outfit. In case of any kind of adjustment or modification in fitting, the tailor will be able to alter the same for you at no added cost.

The real essence of the fabric and pattern is displayed in a perfect justice to the buyer. Usually the price tag associated with designer wear is high but there are affordable ranges in upcoming designers. NRI's often go in for ready picks through online shops or export variety especially for ethnic wear. The designer understands your need for style and hence creates the special tangible item that is not common and is a trend setting outfit.

Salwar suits are also found in simple day wear routine fabrics and most times people like to go in for the same labels in there future buys. Once the style, cut and need is perfectly met, the customer insists on the brand as the comfort level with them is high. Designer salwar suits in boutiques too come in chikankari kurtis, Capri style pants, the phulkari chunni and stoles and scarves to go along for the winter times.



--------

Bridal suits : The one-time occasion in life is a sure way to be lived up with an elaborate trousseau collection. The tunics and kurtis are still around with the camouflage prints and animal skin designs that also go for batik styles. The real good way to go for shine is through fabric painted dresses that really is cool and yet dressy for casual bridal outings. The bridal salwar suits can be in any color and not really required as maroon or red. In the case of simple home puja, one can do wonders with pastel colors or fine tune the embellishments to pure but simple stuff.

The mehndi is one ceremony that is special and the kick start of the real marriage functions. The dress can have a lot of layers in organza, voile or other free flow fabrics. Mostly an indoor function, the mehndi ceremony seeks a lot of comfortability as it requires a lot of sitting around. The real sense is to go for flares or gathers. The dress can be pinks or pastel green with the full gather till the ankles and end in a churidars with lot of gathers on the ankles. The dupatta here is not a necessity yet one can go for the neck drape while posing for photographs.

Creating a new look for each occasion is the trick for bridal collections. The guests are surely waiting for the glimpse of the bride and rave about her beauty and hence the confidence is the utmost necessary quality. The full dupatta can be used in intrinsic hand worked embroidery brought in from different handicrafts of North India and the tight fitting short kurta can have a flared almost patiala style cowl for simple ceremonies. For general meets or sitting around, the bride can have semi precious jewelry and there are many varieties in pearl or diamonds.

The easiest way to transform looks is by way of hair style. The beehive style is in fashion but it may or may not suit you. The long neck has to be accentuated or created with boat necks, tank tops and a simple choker or pendant is more than enough for evening parties. Minimalisation has to be sought where the dress is real dressy and has a lot of shimmer and glitter. Sequins, buttis, embroidery, kundan jewelry and diamond embroidery makes the dress glittery and the make up has to be in accordance with the same.

Straight fits are in and the shorter the better is another mantra. For casual get together one can include a lot of slacks in lycra without dupatta. The scarf style is another way to grab attention and one can bring in more creativity with drape styles.



Accessories : There are several styles available to be adopted while wearing a salwar suit. The variations can be brought out with the drape of the dupatta, earrings, hair style, cuts of the salwar and the fitting of the churidar or kameez. The kameez style is a typical Indian variety that consists of sleeves in long style or upto the elbows and a stereotype neck design. Of late the salwar kameez has morphed into a real ensemble with all the necessities of contemporary yet modern feel.

For chikankari salwar suits the accessories come out brilliantly in pearls or simple beads. The chikankari works also seem great with silver pendants and simple hanging earrings. There is simplicity about the entire outfit as the embroidery is the chief motif. The flow of the garment is a personal choice where the kameez can be the tight fit of the sixties or relate to the anarkali gathers in the empire length style. The lucknowi white chikanari work can never be out of style as is a sure inclusion in every woman's wardrobe.

The tunic style seems incomplete with a bright bandana and a huge bracelet. This is also seen with lycra leggings or slack that resemble a churidar. There are cotton tights too for added comfort. The colors are simple in batik or heavy print and hence the style can be done in huge pearl or bead necklaces, big hoops and a kada for sure. The other outfit like for a traditional activity is incomplete without a dupatta. There is georgette or chiffon ones that go on the neck or again the pin-up-over-the-head style that can go with a brooch in a high bun hairstyle for formal occasions.

Glass bangles and the tinkle of the same are very typically Indian and lend an ethnic charm to the outfit. The colors are a range of emotions actually from plain ones to subtle rainbow hues that reflect light. The same can be matched with alternating colors to match the prints of the dress. The white outfit or a black salwar suit can also be brought to life with matching bangles. Sometimes the earrings seem highlight of the entire look. The chandelier earrings are in vogue internationally.

Earrings are referring to authentic gold and silver ones with matching necklaces, pendants or rings too. Hoops in plastics or gold is also another way to add peppiness to a fusion trend in salwar suits. In case you do not wish to come out as a total ethnic model, then it is advisable to go in for the mix n match variety with or without the dupatta. Go for long beads in chunky form or the several selections that lend to brighten the garment. Weave a bit of the same into the ends of the dupatta. Diamond studs, pearl tops and one pendant chokers suits all ages.

Dupattas : The dupatta is an utterly feminine drape that conservatively was used to give more beauty to the female Indian clan. But as modernity formed or else comfortabity quotient with Indian dresses increased the dupatta morphed as a style garment from the original drape that almost covered the yoke pattern of the salwar kameez. Usually plus sizes seek refuge in the huge tent size dupatta, which actually makes them flabbier. There are easy and cheap options to buy salwar kameez for the plus size salwar suits.

Odhni or the dupatta is also magical in the sense it allows a lot of embroidery. Going by the Punjab handicraft or the phulkari pattern that actually is a beautiful weave of thread in silk and satins is a one way to infuse life in a strictly plain dress. It necessitates the need of the salwar kameez to have a lot of simplicity and plain colors so that the phulkari dupatta highlights the garment. The bandhni dupatta on a plain or white outfit is a real steal about style. This marks the traditional print and is seen in silks and mix n match styles.

Drapes in dupatta can comes as over the head style, one side shoulder dupatta, the traditional V shape drape or the bandana style that combines the hair styling and casual comfort. The dupatta of the sixties was the best way enhanced to suit the style of the tight fitting churidar-kurta style that also was seen in A line tunics. Another styling is to go for a dupatta that is a total contrast of the image of the main dress. Contrast creates intrigue which c an be matched with a lot of beads and bracelets.

Dupatta edges in gota work are a compulsion for traditional wedding attires. The gota work comes in various patterns from intrinsic heavy ones to the minimum works. This is a personal choice for bridal wear. This is also the easiest way to pep a drab fabric or also transform an old dress into a new one. There are bead works, ready to attach embroidery, petals, flowers, sequins that actually give more opportunity to experiment in creating style in fusion trends.

The stole is another modern element in Indian readymade garments which can also be used over tight jeans and a kurta top. This is perfect for evening outs or night parties. There are styles in net, plain silks or some even resemble a long scarf. Casual drape or secured with a pin the stole is the modern dupatta. For ethnic charm the dupatta can actually transform the look of the person by perfecting the accessories. 

Sunday, July 10, 2011

India Independence Day

The word Independence has a lot of meaning. In general term, Independence means freedom, the freedom to speak and do what you want in your own country. We all must know that we celebrate our republic day of India on 26th Jan and Independence Day on August 15th . We send greetings to our friends and associates on India’s Independence Day.

Since we are living in an Internet community, many Indians use the Internet or mobile phones to exchange greetings. India became Independent in the year 1947 under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Vithalbhai Patel, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Netaji Subash Chandrabose. These brave leaders lead the freedom movement, which inspired many young people in those days to challenge the British lead government to leave India.

Indian Independence Day is celebrated each year in the capital New Delhi with military parades showcasing the latest weapons. Independence Day is also celebrated in the state capitals of each state with military parades. All the schools, colleges and the government offices remain closed for the day. As we celebrate Independence Day of India, let us not forget the struggles that our forefathers had to do. We must remember that our freedom came at a price. Jai Hind.

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

India Last Minute Travel - Choosing a Destination

Travelling with your family and spending some quality time with them is always fun and thrilling. Many working personalities find it difficult to plan their holidays well in advance due to lack of time, work and personal commitments. Those of you who are adventurous and love travelling might find last minute travel as a boon rather than a bane.

You need to know the basic details of your destination, like the travel distance, climate, the amount of money you need to spend on the rent and food. However, the surprise concept is lost when you plan well ahead and know everything about your destination.

When you are actually travelling you do not feel that excitement or thrill. The whole idea of a trip or holiday is to enjoy along with the surprises that come along. That is where all the fun lies. India basically is a tropical country, and you would usually find similar weather throughout the country with the only exception being Jammu and Kashmir. Your destination depends on your personality and requirements.

Some of you may like to visit a hill station, while some of you may like to visit a location known for its history. The choice is entirely yours. India is a vast country, and you can find the place that suits your taste. You can find lot of information about your dream location in India from the Internet.

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Vivekananda Rock


Vivekananda Rock is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southern India. Placed in the midst of the ocean, the Rock is just 400 meters from Kanyakumari. Built in the year 1970, Vivekananda Rock Memorial owes its creation to able supervision of Shri Eknath Ranade. It is believed that one of the greatest spiritual philosophers of India, Swami Vivekananda used to meditate here before embarking on the famous and path breaking religious campaigns in India in 1892. The place can be easily reached from Kanyakumari via ferries and boats.

Vivekananda Rock Memorial is not just a spiritual destination for millions of followers of Swami Vivekananda, but it is also a magnificent blend of traditional and contemporary style of Indian architecture. Year 1962 was the birth centenary of Swami Ji and that’s when the idea of making the memorial fist took place. The memorial has a life size statue of Swami Vivekananda. The rock is also known as ‘Sripada Parai’. Considered as a holy rock, the place is routinely frequented by domestic as well as international travelers.

Vivekananda rock memorial is a wonderful place for relaxation and meditation purposes. There are two main structures known as the Shripada Mandapam and the Vivekananda Mandapam. The main sanctum sanctorum is in the Shripada Mandapam whereas the Vivekananda Mandapam has a meditation hall known as Dhyana Mandapam. It is a place for those who want to get away from hustle-bustle of city life. They can come to the memorial, sit, relax and rejuvenate their senses. The perfectly calm and serene atmosphere of the place is truly blissful.

Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Mahabaleshwar

Mahabaleshwar is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the state of Maharashtra. It is situated at an altitude of 1,372 meters in the Satara district of Maharashtra. It’s a very sought after weekend gateway for the residents of Pune and Mumbai because of its proximity. If Pune is just 120 kms away from Mahabaleshwar then Mumbai is approximately 285 kms away. The place will mesmerize with you its natural beauty, valleys, lakes, wondrous mountains and charming waterfalls. The place was first discovered by British who turned it into their favorite summer gateway.

The best part about Mahabaleshwar is its versatility. Tourists can enjoy several different activities. Right from exploring the local tourist hot sports and trekking to indulging themselves in adventurous activities, boating and fishing etc, Mahabaleshwar offers you several choices. If nothing else, you can simply relax in one of many fascinating resorts and relish the calm and serene environment.

Among the major attractions of the Mahabaleshwar, Wilson Point or Sunrise Point definitely takes the cake. At 4,710 feet above the sea level, it is the highest point in the “Queen of the Hills”. You can have a heavenly view of sunrise and sunset from this plateau. Connaught Peak is another popular tourist spot. It is the second highest point at Mahabaleshwar and is totally surrounded by serene, verdant greens on all sides. A feeling of different world altogether.

Elphinston Point is also an attractive tourist spot. It is located 10 kms from Mahabaleshwar. Other popular sports in Mahabaleshwar are Venna Lake, Baghdad point, Kates point and wonderful waterfalls like Chinaman, Dhobi and Lingamala.

Friday, July 30, 2010

Delicious South Indian Cuisine

Foods have always been a great ingredient of any culture. The richness of the food tells a lot about history and sumptuousness of a particular culture and that’s why south Indian cuisine so effectively reflects the glorious tradition of southern India. You will find variety of food items in southern part of the country. Some of the most famous south Indian dishes are vadas, idli, dosas and uttapams etc. All these items are light and low calories in nature. The traditional food of South India is mainly rice based. The cuisine is lip smacking and delicious. Perfect for health, these dishes use very less oil for cooking and that makes them ideal foods for health and diet conscious people.

Most of the south Indian main course dishes have sambhar. Common components of South Indian dishes are sambhar, rasam, vegetable curry and pachadi (yogurt). Rice is lemon flavored and is commonly made of coconut. Rice items are usually made using coconut, curry leaves, urad dal, tamarind, peanuts, chilies, and fenugreek seeds.

One major difference between south India and north India cuisine is use of spices. South Indian dishes do not use much of dried spices except cardamom, black pepper and turmeric. The color, taste and flavor are just perfect for a foodie. South Indian dishes have significant nutritional value. Chutneys are an essential part of South Indian cuisine. Chutneys are prepared using coconut, peanuts, dal, tamarind, fenugreek seeds, and cilantro. South Indians also love to have coffee after having their meals.

Wednesday, June 30, 2010

Glorious Gangtok

Sikkim is the second smallest state of India. Located in the North-Eastern part of India, Sikkim is a beautiful place that is totally untouched by malice of a modern world. Gangtok is the capital of Sikkim and it is believed to be one of the most soothing tourist destinations in India. The best part about Gangtok is that it is not at all crowded and offers a world of peace, tranquility and spirituality. The place represents a wonderful blend of tradition and modernity. It has fascinating monasteries. A tourist can have mesmerizing views of the Himalayas from Gangtok.

Gangtok is placed at an altitude of 1547 m above sea level. Gangtok is an important Buddhist religious site. There are plenty of tourist spots in this place. Apart from beautiful monasteries, you can visit to Tashi View Point, Ridge Park, Government Institute of Cottage Industry, Sikkim Research Institute of Tibetology, Himalayan Zoological Park, Do-Drul Chorten stupa, Hanuman Tok, Deer Park, White Hall, and Sa-Ngor-Chotshog Centre. That’s not all. Gangtok is also blessed with wide varieties of flora and fauna.

Some of the other places worth visiting in and around Gangtok are, Rumtek Dharma Chakra Center, Fambong La Wildlife Sanctuary, Shri Nalanda Institute for Higher Buddhist Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden, Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary, Saramsa Garden or the Ipecac garden, Water garden, Changu lake, Nathula Pass, and Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary.

If you are planning to visit Gangtok, you can reach the place by road, rail or air. The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri in West Bengal whereas nearest airport is at Bagdogra. Thereafter, you can take bus or private taxis to reach Gangtok.