Punjabi suits, also known as salwar kameez, have become immense popular worldwide due to their comfort, vibrance and elegance. Consisting of a kameez (tunic top), salwar (loose pants), and dupatta (long scarf), Punjabi suits come in an endless array of styles, fabrics, colors and designs. In this ultimate guide we will cover everything you need to know about these stylish garments.
A Brief History of the Punjabi Suit
The salwar kameez has a long and storied history in Indian fashion. While the exact origins are unclear, it is believed these suits originated in the Punjab region of India, where the style was common for both women and men. The term “Punjabi suit” comes from this region, which still wears these suits as their traditional clothing today.
Over the centuries, the Punjabi suit has evolved with the fashions and cultural influences of the time. The suits became more tailored and ornate during the Mughal empire. Different regions developed their own styles – for example, the Patiala salwar which has folds at the waist.
Styles of Punjabi Suits
From elegant anarkalis to practical pant-suits, there are many styles of salwar kameez to choose from. Look at the few of the most popular options:
Anarkali Suit: This style has a long, flared kameez like a frock. The anarkali kameez is fitted on the upper torso and waist, then flares out dramatically down towards the knees or ankles. Dupatta is essential to complete the look.
Churidar Suit: Instead of loose salwars, churidar suits have tight fitting churidars at the bottom. This allows the shape of the legs to show while keeping the look modest. Churidars sit close to the body without constricting movement.
Patiala Suit: It is named after the Patiala region, these suits have a loose salwar stitched with pleats at the waistband. The pleats help create a billowy silhouette. Patiala salwars require more fabric and give a royal appearance.
Straight Suit: The straight suit is the most common style, with a straight cut salwar as opposed to a churidar or Patiala style bottom. The straight suit looks clean and put-together while still being comfortable for daily wear.
Pant-Suit: Taking inspiration from western-wear, pant-suits feature a kameez with pants instead of a salwar. The pants may be wide-legged or narrow depending on personal choice. Pant-suits add a modern twist for women on the go.
Fabrics and Materials
Punjabi suits come in a spectrum of beautiful fabrics – from breezy cottons to lustrous silks and more. Choosing the right fabric is key for both the look and feel of your suit. Here are some top options for punjabi suits:
Cotton: A light, breathable natural fiber perfect for everyday kameez and salwar sets or unembellished suits in hot weather regions. Common cotton fabrics include voile, lawn, organdy and poplin.
Silk: Considered a luxurious fabric, silk drapes beautifully and comes in a range of sheens from matte to brilliant. Silk is used to make premium suits with intricate embroidery or prints. Common silks used are tussar, crepe, chiffon and more.
Chanderi: It is named after the Chanderi town where it originated, chanderi fabric is lightweight and sheer yet elegant looking. It is woven from silk and cotton with a fine luxurious feel. Chanderi suits feature intricate embroidery.
Georgette: A crisp sheer fabric that holds pleats well. Georgette is a popular choice for making dupattas and some styles of anarkali suits because of its billowy, flowy texture.
Net: Net or mesh fabric is often layered with other fabrics to create a unique textured effect. Net salwar suits let you combine the comfort of cotton or silk with sheer net dupattas or net yokes on kameez.
In addition to natural fabrics, many salwar kameez also incorporate synthetic fabrics like polyester, rayon, viscose and more – especially for affordable, everyday suits. Blends of natural and synthetic fabrics provide the best of both worlds.
Tips for Styling Punjabi Suits
Follow these tips to style is right your gorgeous Punjabi suit:
Layer the Dupatta: There are many draping styles to try with your dupatta for a unique look. Let it flow loose, pleat it over one shoulder, drape both ends from the front, tie it Gujarati style and more.
Jewelry: Avoid over accessorizing ethnic suits. A small pair of earrings or bangles, your wedding bangles, and a bindi are often all you need. Let the suit be the highlight.
Contrasts: Play with contrasts – pair a vibrant suit with neutral heels or mix heavy embroidery with minimal jewelry. Contrasts help balance the look.
Waist: Use a belt that matches or contrasts your suit to define your waistline. Fabric ties, embroidered belts and beaded belts add flair.
Clutch: Complete your look with an embellished clutch or potli bag. Metallic bags are perfect for parties while embroidered pouches suit ethnic wear.
Footwear: Fancy juttis, kolhapuri chappals, or embroidered mojaris add traditional flair. Strappy heels, wedges or nude pumps work for fusion looks.
With the perfect fit and styling, your Punjabi suit will turn heads at any occasion – from festivals to weddings to brunches! Treasure and maintain your investment pieces over the years. As you explore more suits, you’ll discover just how much variety this classic ensemble has to offer.
