No matter how much we claim to prefer western outfits, there are certain ethnic essentials that cannot
be done without. Every now and then we want to slip into an oversized kurta with jeans or a
comfortable palazzo kurta set. For men and women, there are ethnic options galore, so much so that we
may get confused about the must-have essentials. Today’s designers such as Anita Dongre have
introduced versatility in ethnic designs making them wearable for all while keeping us in touch with our
rich culture and heritage.
Here are a few ethnic essentials that represent India’s grandeur and rich traditions:
Saree
The most oomph-exuding ethnic essential that one must own is a saree. This Indian treasure is
representative of our rich culture and traditions. Women across occupations and age groups have
flaunted sarees with panache for centuries. Sarees come in a myriad of styles – from trendy chiffon and
georgette sarees to your grandmom and mom’s heirloom Benarasis, Kanjivarams, and Paithanis; the
sophistication lent is irreplaceable.
Take the traditional saree look a notch higher with Anita Dongre’s gold gota patti hand embroidered
saree with zari and pearl zari embellishments.
Dupattas
A dupatta can change the entire look, especially when your attire is ethnic. A dupatta that has been intricately designed with patchwork, heavy embroidery, or zari work is a must-have ethnic essential for every Indian girl. When it comes to the variety of dupattas, you are spoilt for choice, owing to India’s vast and rich textile industry. A few popular dupattas designs include Phulkari, Gota Patti, Patola, Bandhani, Benarasi, Madhubani, Chanderi and Kalamkari amongst others.
Kurta
Kurta is a very adaptable outfit for both men and women – it can be matched with churidars, salwars, and even jeans. Be it a traditional kurta for men or a kurta set for women, these essentials are a definite must-have. For those who are not into heavy Indian dressing, a simple kurta with jeans can be a saviour. While a kurta set may be a tad bit simple for wedding functions, they make the perfect outfits for special occasions such as Diwali parties, poojas and family get-togethers.
Ethnic Jewellery
Your ethnic look will remain incomplete without ethnic jewellery. These traditional art pieces are timeless and refined and for some, they are a form of expression. A statement necklace, chandbalis, or maang tikka can completely revamp your look. Chandbalis is an ethnic jewellery style that you must own and flaunt. A universally loved style, these go back to the Mughal rule and are inspired by the shape of the moon – “Chand,”. Another must-have are the evergreen hair ornaments – Maang tikka or mathapatti that add grace to one’s look.
The jhumkis shown in the image below are yet another type of ethnic earrings that can make a statement when paired with an Anarkali or a saree. These stunning earrings embellished with crystals are a definite must-buy to add to your ethnic collection.
Juttis
Punjabi juttis have been a rage ever since they existed – both for men and women. These trendy shoes come in various colours and designs and are the most comfortable flats for occasions where you need to dance the night away. They were traditionally paired with Patiala suits, but now one sees people flaunting them even with a simple shirt and jeans. Juttis can be teamed up with everything from a churidar, palazzo suit, and lehenga choli to a pathani salwar and any traditional kurta for men. The evergreen appeal of this footwear and its vibrancy make it a favourite across genders and age groups.
