From yoga to architecture, India has passed down a lot through generations and over borders. Albeit, if we’d fully comprehend the trans-generational impact of India on the world at large, the fashion sector cannot be excluded.
In fact, it should be our starting point.
Taking a comprehensive look at each region of the country, the sheer amount of diversity and influences that can be attributed to each area keeps India far ahead of other countries. With the world’s borders closing in, and the earth turning into a global village, the influence of the Indian culture on international fashion is more evident than before; and its heritage’s growth is unstoppable. Luckily, you don’t have to be an Indian to partake of the Indian culture; the internet brings it closer to you.
In this article, we’d give a shot at comprehending the waves of the impact the Indian culture has had on International fashion; how staple Indian clothing have become relatable words in the fashion sector.
The Rise of Nose Rings
In Indian culture, the use of nose rings as an object of fashion began in the 16th century. Although it did not originate from India, it was brought into India during the Moghul Emperors rule. According to Indian traditions, nose rings are considered as a sign of marriage and are vital in the bride’s traditional jewelry. Nose piercing, according to the Indian tradition, helps lessen the pains of childbirth.
Although nose rings are now familiar sights in most parts of the world, nowhere is it worn more frequently than in India.
The Indian Sari
Covering up to 8 meters in length, and 1.2 meters in breadth, the Indian sari is considered to be the oldest garment still in existence today.
Today, Saris are no longer worn alone by Indians but are celebrated as a worldwide fashion item. Much of this fact is due to the popularity of Bollywood movies around the world; movies that depict colorfully decked up garments. This has caught the fancy of many people and has enticed them to the drape.
Also, the inflow of foreign tourists, as well as celebrity personalities in the country, has contributed to the trend, as many celebrated women in the society are seen wearing saris. A myriad of designers around the world, including designer salwar kameez, are very much giving saris modern touches.
Headgear
Mostly, the headgear- also known as dastaar- is an item that is associated with the Sikh religion in Punjab, India. The dastaar is a symbol of holiness, spirituality, honor, and respect.
Many designers have been drawn to the sheer amount of headgear worn by Indians. Popular designers have experimented with turbans. For its fall 2018 collection at the Milan Fashion Week, Gucci introduced models on the ramp wearing various headgear accessories, out of which turban was one.
Indigo Prints
As early as the Greco-Roman era, India was the main supplier of indigo to Europe. Indigo was one of the earliest dyes to be used for textile printing and dyeing. Mixed with traditional patterns of nature or mandala designs, the Indigo prints are essentially Indian.
Embroidery
Brought into India by the mighty Moghuls, the most opulent form of Indian embroidery is the zardozi and zari. Today Indian embroidery prints and embroidery design patterns have become extremely popular with international fashion brands like Christian Dior, Gucci, Alberta Ferretti- which showcase them on their items.
Conclusion
It is evident that the world is beginning to love the Indian culture while buying into their deep heritage and traditions. Now that you know the items that have geared the impact of the Indian culture on international fashion, wouldn’t you love to get some for yourself?
