Owing to the traditional essence of India, it is highly crucial to be dressed in the appropriate attire when planning a trip to India. Indians are conservative and have an indigenous tinge when it comes to their way of dressing. Even in different festivals, occasions and weather, Indians still maintain their ways of dressing and their dressing codes. It is important to be familiar with their culture and respect their customs. The dressing sense varies from across the world, but like in many orthodox countries like the Middle East, India, Pakistan etc there is a certain dress code that needs to be followed.
Jaisa Des, Vaisa Bheis!
It is a popular saying in India, which means one has to alter their dressing as per the requirement of the region they are residing in. In essence, it simple means to respect the morals and traditions of that country and becoming a part of their culture
First, here are some basic rules about the dress code
9Be Modest
It is fine to wear western dressed/designs but in a manner that is respectful and shows modesty to their culture. Basically, you are required to cover your arms, shoulders, knees, and midriff and chest area. Wearing shorts and short skirts is disrespectful. You should not wear clothes that are transparent or reveal what you have under your clothes. Your tops should not reveal your cleavage. Steer clear of bikinis; tank tops, low cut spaghetti tops shots and sheer blouses.
Bring a conservative swimsuit along with you; a one-piece with a cover up is most preferable.
There are occasions you are allowed to show some cleavage. Many Indian women show a little cleavage with their saree during casual occasions or night outs. The saris also show some skin in the back, which is not considered offensive.
8Choose The Perfect Pair of Pants
Pants that are too tight show off your figure, which is not a common site in India. For your pants, choose loose tunic styles that cover your hips and mid area. Wear loose tops to avoid drawing the attention to your body.
7Respect Religious Places
In certain religious locations like places of worship, there are codes that are put in place for the commoners. Observe what locals do and be educated before taking on a certain tradition. Cover your head, take off your shoes, and make sure you are not showing any skin in respect to their religion.
6Wear Traditional Clothes
Many people will appreciate when you show respect to their culture and traditions. They are more comfortable and will make you fit in the crowed. Traditional clothes serve as a great ice breaker, people feel like they relate to you more. If you don’t have enough, there are western styles that are still acceptable. Maxi-skirts work so well in India; they are similar to most of their traditional clothes in length. T-shirt and jeans are a common western wear you can find
Now that you are familiar with the unspoken rules, check out this beautiful Indian attires and combinations you can rock during your stay in India
Traditional dresses and full attire
5Saree and Kurta Pyjama
If you have been invited to an Indian wedding and you have no clue to wear, the saree is the best attire to choose. The saree is made of a petticoat skirt and a choli top and is draped around the wait and over one shoulder. The petticoat is simple and long, and the color matches to that of the saree. Indians love wearing colourful saree with embroidery and embellishment to symbolise the joy and celebrations of the wedding ceremony. Ask a friend to guide you in finding the right saree that will blend in and not overpower the other guests.
For men, the kurta pyjama is basic Indian men fashion wear. A bright kurta with a basic colored pyjama is a beautiful ensemble when you are going for and Indian wedding.
4Kurti
The kurta and kurti have almost similar designs and shapes but the kurti is worn by women. The kurti is the most diverse and modern Indian attire and can be mixed by other clothes to create different looks for different occasions. The kurti can go with or without pants, depending on its style and length. The famous tulip kurti has a beautiful tulip shaped hemline that makes it look classy and sophisticated. You can wear it to dinners and night outs when you pair it with heels. Visit Stylecaret for a variety of kurti styles that you can match with different outfits for the different occasions you will attend while in India.
3Stylish Bottom Wear
Most Indian pants are loose, comfortable and can be matched with endless top designs. All pants however, go well with the kurti design. Flared and loose pants will look good when you are touring India during the day. Wear palazzo, Patiala and salwar Aladdin pants with kurti or a choli for a chilled out and comfortable look.
Harem pants hang low and are really comfortable. Solid colors like black, khaki and blue can be worn with the coli top and a cape for a social gathering with your friends. Leggings, jeggings and Jeans are one of the most accepted western style fashions. You can go for a high waited jeans and a choli with a cape or poncho for a more chilled look. Jeans go well with any kind of kurti.
The lehenga choli combination gives you an ethnic but modern style to wear when you are visiting religious places.
2Cover-ups and Jackets
Cover ups and jackets are important when you feel your outfit may be to revealing. Indians use the Dupatta, kurti, ponchos and capes as cover-ups. With dresses, you will need sheer cover-ups to maintain the design of your outfit. Heavy ponchos and capes are won with pant-ensembles and come in handy in cold weather.
1Accessorize
Accessorizing is a must! Wearing jewellery to Indian cultural festivals and religious events will definitely add on to your Indian beauty. If you cannot afford the big expensive studs and necklaces, you can do minimal jewelry that will still look good. Select a traditional set of earrings and bangles to make your outfit look complete. Don’t forget a comfortable pair of Indian sandals to go with these outfits. Now you can enjoy your stay in India.
