Traditional Rajasthani Dresses and Their Influence on Contemporary Fashion
Rajasthan has a rich and vibrant cultural heritage and its traditional clothing embodies this vitality. The traditional outfits worn by both Rajasthan men and women are not only fabulous but also fascinating. Therefore, it is no wonder that Rajasthani fabrics, prints, textiles, jewelry and fabrics have managed to influence contemporary fashion. Traditional clothing worn by women in Rajasthan consists of ghagras, cholis, kurtis, odhni or chunars and many accessories, while traditional clothing worn by men mainly consists of bandhgalas, turbans, dhotis, kurtas, and jootis. Contemporary fashion takes its inspiration from traditional clothing and modifies it to suit the needs of today’s generation.
Ghagras
Ghagras are long skirts that taper at the waist and then flare to the ankles. Different materials can be used for ghagras such as chiffon, crepe and georgette. Ghagras or lehengas have become synonymous with weddings nowadays, for example, this lehenga would be the perfect bridal ensemble. The collections presented by contemporary Indian designers such as Anita Dongre and Abraham and Thakore showcase Rajasthani influences. But the influence of traditional Rajasthani clothing is not limited to Indian designers only.
Choli
A choli or a blouse and an odhni or a chunar would complete the perfect bridal look. A choli is a short-sleeved bodice that is paired with a ghagra or lehenga. A chunar is a long scarf worn by women. They are available in a variety of prints and fabrics. Elie Saab, in 2016 had presented chunars at Paris Fashion Week.
Kurti
Kurti is similar to long robes and has become the ideal casual wear for contemporary women. Valentino also showcased contemporary women’s clothing that was inspired by the traditional kurtis silhouettes worn by women in Rajasthan.
Jootis
Jootis are traditional footwear and can be worn by men and women, depending on the adornments and the work done. Jootis can be paired with kurtas / kurtis to create a casual look and can also be worn with lehengas and even bandhgalas.
Jewels
Jewelry plays an important role in Rajasthani fashion. Traditional jewelry pieces such as the nath (nose ring) and payal have become famous accessories that can be used to enhance the effect of ethical clothing.In 2011, Karl Lagerfeld presented a collection that showcased the traditional fashion of Rajasthani such as mang tikas, kurtas, and payals. .
Bandhgalas
Traditional Rajasthani costumes for men consist of bandhgalas which are perfect for weddings and simple dhotis and kurtas for informal occasions. Bandhgalas are similar to blazers and the rich fabric used to make it suitable for a special occasion. Jean Paul Gaultier had presented bandhgalas; turbans and jodhpuris showcased the royal tradition of Rajasthan during a fashion week in Paris.
Rajasthani impressions
One of the main contributions of Rajasthani fabrics and textiles to contemporary fashion is the different prints such as bagru prints and tie-and-dye prints and also their famous patti drop work. Let’s not forget the beautiful embroidery and mirror work used to adorn fabrics that would simply transform a plain-looking Kurti into a modern one that screams sophistication. Louis Vuitton in 2014 had presented a collection inspired by the famous Lahariya print from Rajasthan. Isabel Marant had also used Rajasthani textiles in her collections more than once. Marchesa had also unveiled a Spring-Summer collection that showcased the magnificent embroidery and mirror work that is often synonymous with Rajasthani culture.
These were just a few different ways that Rajasthani designs and aesthetics have infiltrated and dominated modern fashion. Of course, there are many combinations that you can make and mix traditional and contemporary designs. It’s all about using your style sensibilities and keeping up with your fashion game!