Introduction
In the vibrant and diverse world of fashion, Indian clothing stands out with its rich history, intricate designs, and cultural significance. Whether you’re looking to explore traditional Indian attire or want to incorporate modern Indian styles into your wardrobe, the internet offers a plethora of options. This comprehensive guide will delve into the world of Indian dress online, covering traditional styles, modern interpretations, and where to find the best online retailers.
Traditional Indian Dresses
Sarees
Sarees are perhaps the most iconic piece of Indian clothing, known for their elegance and versatility. An unstitched length of cloth, typically four to nine yards, is draped around the body in various ways to create a unique silhouette. Sarees come in a variety of fabrics, colors, and patterns, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of India.
Types of Sarees
1. Silk Sarees: Made from luxurious silk fabric, these sarees are popular for their sheen and comfort. They are often adorned with intricate embroidery and zari work.
2. Cotton Sarees: Lightweight and breathable, cotton sarees are perfect for everyday wear. They come in various prints and colors, making them a versatile choice.
3. Georgette Sarees: Known for their soft, crinkled texture, georgette sarees are popular for their unique look and feel.
Salwar Kameez
The Salwar Kameez is a traditional outfit consisting of a tunic (kameez), a pair of trousers (salwar), and a scarf (dupatta). This ensemble is popular among women and is often worn for both formal and casual occasions.
Types of Salwar Kameez
1. Anarkali: This style features a wide, flowing tunic with a fitted waist and a full skirt. It is often worn with a dupatta.
2. Patiala: A more casual style, the Patiala Salwar features a loose-fitting trouser and a tunic that is often shorter and more fitted.
3. Shalwar Kameez: This style features a long, flowing tunic and a loose-fitting trouser. It is often worn with a dupatta.
Lehenga Choli
The Lehenga Choli is a traditional Indian outfit consisting of a long skirt (lehenga), a blouse (choli), and a dupatta. This ensemble is often worn for weddings and other formal events.
Types of Lehenga Choli
1. Ghagra Choli: This style features a long, pleated skirt (ghagra) and a fitted blouse (choli). It is often worn with a dupatta.
2. Anarkali Lehenga: This style features a wide, flowing skirt (lehenga) and a fitted blouse (choli). It is often worn with a dupatta.
Modern Indian Dresses
Kurti
The Kurti is a modern interpretation of traditional Indian clothing, featuring a short, fitted top that is often worn with leggings or a salwar. Kurtis come in a variety of styles, fabrics, and colors, making them a versatile choice for both casual and formal occasions.
Types of Kurtis
1. Straight Kurti: This style features a straight, fitted top that is often worn with leggings or a salwar.
2. A-line Kurti: This style features a fitted top that flares out at the waist, creating an A-line silhouette.
3. Crop Top Kurti: This style features a short, fitted top that is often worn with high-waisted leggings or a salwar.
Jumpsuits
Jumpsuits are a modern take on traditional Indian clothing, featuring a one-piece outfit that combines the top and bottom into a single garment. Jumpsuits come in a variety of styles, fabrics, and colors, making them a versatile choice for both casual and formal occasions.
Types of Jumpsuits
1. Straight Jumpsuit: This style features a straight, fitted top and bottom that is often worn with a dupatta.
2. A-line Jumpsuit: This style features a fitted top and bottom that flares out at the waist, creating an A-line silhouette.
3. Crop Top Jumpsuit: This style features a short, fitted top and bottom that is often worn with high-waisted leggings or a salwar.
Where to Buy Indian Dresses Online
Traditional Indian Dresses
Online Retailers
1. FabIndia: FabIndia is a popular online retailer that offers a wide range of traditional Indian dresses, including sarees, salwar kameez, and lehenga choli. They offer a variety of fabrics, colors, and patterns, making it easy to find the perfect outfit for any occasion.
2. Anokhi: Anokhi is another popular online retailer that specializes in traditional Indian clothing. They offer a range of sarees, salwar kameez, and lehenga choli, as well as accessories like dupattas and jewelry.
3. The Bombay Store: The Bombay Store is an online retailer that offers a range of traditional Indian dresses, as well as modern interpretations. They offer a variety of fabrics, colors, and patterns, making it easy to find the perfect outfit for any occasion.
Modern Indian Dresses
Online Retailers
1. Myntra: Myntra is a popular online retailer that offers a wide range of modern Indian dresses, including kurtis and jumpsuits. They offer a variety of styles, fabrics, and colors, making it easy to find the perfect outfit for any occasion.
2. Ajio: Ajio is another popular online retailer that specializes in modern Indian clothing. They offer a range of kurtis, jumpsuits, and other modern interpretations of traditional Indian clothing.
3. Zara: Zara is a global fashion retailer that offers a range of modern Indian dresses, including kurtis and jumpsuits. They offer a variety of styles, fabrics, and colors, making it easy to find the perfect outfit for any occasion.
How to Choose the Right Indian Dress
Choosing the right Indian dress involves considering several factors, including the occasion, your personal style, and your body type. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:
Occasion
The occasion is an important factor to consider when choosing an Indian dress. Traditional Indian dresses like sarees, salwar kameez, and lehenga choli are often worn for formal occasions like weddings, festivals, and religious ceremonies. Modern Indian dresses like kurtis and jumpsuits are more versatile and can be worn for both casual and formal occasions.
Personal Style
Your personal style is another important factor to consider when choosing an Indian dress. If you prefer a more traditional look, you might want to opt for a saree or a salwar kameez. If you prefer a more modern look, you might want to opt for a kurti or a jumpsuit.
Body Type
Your body type is another important factor to consider when choosing an Indian dress. Different styles of Indian dresses flatter different body types. For example, if you have a pear-shaped body, you might want to opt for a kurti with a straight cut or an A-line jumpsuit. If you have an hourglass figure, you might want to opt for a saree with a fitted blouse or a lehenga choli with a fitted blouse.
Conclusion
Indian dress online offers a wide range of traditional and modern styles, making it easy to find the perfect outfit for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to explore traditional Indian attire or want to incorporate modern Indian styles into your wardrobe, the internet offers a plethora of options. By considering factors like the occasion, your personal style, and your body type, you can make the right choice and find the perfect Indian dress for you. Happy shopping!