Pakistani fashion today is a result of years of cultural evolution. A blend of Persian, south Asian and Mughal culture is what makes Contemporary Pakistani fashion. Most of the significant pieces that we wear today have evolved from years of cultural adaptations. The local designs and intricacies like Sindhi mirror work, Balochi patterns, and Punjabi phulkari are all part of south-Asian culture. These embroideries have bled into modern day fashion and can be seen on today’s ethnic wear as well.
The geographical location of Pakistan plays a huge role in its cultural versatility, hence giving birth to a culturally rich and diverse culture. Modern Pakistani fashion is the blend of the multiplicity of cultures that resided in the sub-continent, as well as western culture. Let's go through the cultural significance of mostly Pakistani Dresses and how they are worn across the country.
Salwar Kameez
Salwar kameez being the national dress of Pakistan holds a lot of cultural significance. It varies across different regions but in the heart of it all, salwar kameez is extremely significant for all Pakistanis. Punjabis are fond of flamboyant salwar kameez meanwhile Sindhi salwar kameez is embellished with Sindhi Mirror Work all over it. Salwar kameez evolved from the Anarkali, from the Mughal Era. She is considered the epitome of salwar kameez even today.
Our national Leaders like Fatima Ali Jinnah and Rana Liaqat gave rise to the dupatta, kameez and Ghagra culture which later developed into more of an everyday dress, as the Ghagra was replaced with a salwar. Salwar kameez is worn in a lot of parts of Punjab today as well, and continues to remain a statement in Modern Day Pakistani Fashion too. It is seen as a daily wear as well as formal attire. Salwar kameez represents the rich Pakistani culture and the inculcation of all the cultures at that time, it also embodies modesty, heritage and our traditional values.
Lehenga and Ghagra
Lehengas are a depiction of grandeur, culture, celebration and happiness. It is ceremonial and is worn by brides on their big day. The detailed and delicate embroidery is symbolic to Pakistani culture. Often worn in a bright or dark red/maroon color shows how much our culture celebrates the concept of marriage. Brides go for a lehenga/gharara to show the opulence attached to their wedding day. Luxurious fabrics, rich embroidery and detailed embellishments are all symbolic of how culturally significant this day is.
Anarkali Dress
Anarkali Dress dates back to the Mughal era and was worn by Anarkali who was a royal dancer. Her flowy frocks became today’s anarkali dress. These frocks are symbolic of femininity and are worn as a formal or semi-formal wear today. Embellished with embroidery and delicate handiwork, anarkali dress is known for its grace and cultural richness. Mostly tailored with opulent fabrics like chiffon and silk, this dress was derived from royalty and still preserves its spirit.
Kurtas and Kurtis
Kurtas are worn by both men and women and are known for their versatility. They can be styled with almost anything and are Pakistanis first choice when it comes to everyday wear. Mostly paired with plain salwar or trousers for a traditional look, but also paired with jeans or flappers for a more contemporary or modern look. Plain kurtas are trendy and look good with almost anything. Cotton/lawn Kurtis are epitome of everyday wear in Pakistan because it suits the weather here. Kurtas are adorned with different embroideries or embellishments and are worn in all kinds of colors. Even though plain kurtas are more of an everyday wear, embellished and embroidered kurtas are worn on occasions and as a formal wear too.
Dupattas/shawls
Dupattas are a symbol of modesty and hold a lot of religious significance as well. Paired with salwar kameez, Anarkali dress or kurtas, dupattas are worn with everything. Embellished and adorned with embroidery, mirror work and different colors, they are epitome of grace and modesty. Often adorned with laces or Zari work, dupattas are worn to add grace, elegance, modesty and reticence to any outfit. The wearing of a shawl is associated with being self-conscious and unpretentious, which has a deeper meaning attached to it.
Our cultural dresses hold a lot of importance in the hearts and minds of Pakistanis. These dresses are symbolic of our religious and cultural values and are worn every day, everywhere. Pakistani designers create beautiful fusion dresses by combining contemporary designs and traditional embellishments. Keeping the spirit of Pakistani fashion alive, Pakistani fashion today is an amalgamation of tradition and modernism and we are here for it.
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