Traditional Dress of Delhi For Men & Women

Delhi is a mix of rich cultural heritage and modern world charms. One can find anything in Delhi from the oldest to the newest. The unique fusion of old and new world charm never fails to excite people. The same goes for fashion in Delhi. Though you all might be updated about the trend, let us introduce you to the traditional dress of Delhi.

Before we dive into the details of traditional wear for men and women in Delhi, let’s know about the capital of India.

Delhi: A Perfect Blend of Old & Modern Trends

Delhi is a famous city, not only as the capital city of India but also for many other reasons. The first reason is its historical monuments like the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Humayun’s tomb, and many others. It is also a city of memorable landmarks like India Gate, and Raj Ghat in honor of Mahatma Gandhi.

Further, you will notice skyscrapers, and modern buildings along with these historic places. The combination of these tall buildings and grand forts makes the city one-of-a-kind. Overall, the city is built when people from around the country come and settle together.

The diverse fusion of communities can also be seen in food from spicy street chaats to global cuisines. Delhi even has a traditional shopping market like Chandni Chowk and Khan Market.

Traditional Dress of Delhi for Men

Let’s explore the traditional dress of Delhi for men:

1. Sherwani

It is a traditional clothing mostly worn by grooms. It is a four-piece clothing style containing a churidar salwar, a kurta, a turban, and a royal-looking dupatta. The kurta is usually embedded with stones and intricate mirrorwork to give it a royal look. It is further paired with a matching turban and dupatta. The turban and dupatta enhance the overall look of the sherwani and make the groom look no less than royalty. Dupatta is carried on one shoulder and the elbow on the other side hand.

2. Kurta Pajama

Kurta pajama is a traditional dress of Delhi for men and has been in trend ever since. These are usually made of cotton. The kurta is loose with baggy trousers known as pajamas. Kurtas often have designs inspired by nature like leaves, flowers, and paisley motifs, and worn on special occasions like weddings and traditional festivities. For a more royal look, the fabric used is silk.

3. Dhoti Kurta

Dhoti and kurta are considered as the basic wear when it comes to traditional wear of Delhi for men. It is a piece of long cotton cloth and is found in white or cream color. Dhotis are draped around the waist and tucked at the back end while being folded between the legs like a trouser.  

Traditional Dress of Delhi for Women

Here are some of the popular traditiona dress for women in Delhi:

1. Zardosi Saree

Zardosi sarees originated in Persia. These sarees are also considered one of the oldest forms of hand embroidery done on sarees so far. Zardosi sarees are mostly worn by newly wedded brides enhancing their elegance and beauty.

The best part about this handwork is the use of the finest mirror artwork, and gold and silver thread designs. Only certain fabrics are used for this artwork such as crepe, chiffon, georgette, and silk. When these fabrics are paired with such beautiful artwork they look fabulous. Now, you know why these are popular traditional dress of Delhi for women.

2. Chikankari Sarees

The chikankari sarees are made of detailed designs such as floral patterns, paisley motifs, and embroidery. These beauties are considered masterpieces due to the sheer elegance of off-white and white embroidery. The sarees have adorable designs on the pallus that enhance the overall beauty and detailed artwork. This is a popular traditional dress of Delhi for women.

3. Ghagra Choli

Ghagra cholis are also Delhi’s traditional wear for women. This dress reflects the Mughal influence and is worn on festivals and traditional occasions. These are ankle-length skirts embellished with different patterns, prints, mirror work, and laces. The cholis are known as upper wear, made with beautiful handwork embroidery, unique designs, and mirrorwork.

4. Salwar kameez

A salwar is a baggy pant worn at the bottom and held together with a cotton string around the waist. They are available in different styles like narrow, tight fit, and many others. Kameez has more detailed artwork using stones, threads, and mirrors. These are usually a bit loose in style, further paired with a dupatta.

5. Dupattas

These are long pieces of cloth decorated with zari, gotta patti, mirror, laces, and a lot more. Even the fabrics play a great role in beautifying the overall salwar kameez. They’re used to cover the upper portion of the body or head.

Traditional Jewellery of Delhi

For Women:

Kundan and Polki Jewellery: These have very detailed designs and are worn at weddings and some grand festivities.

Chandbali Earrings: These are shaped in a moon and that’s why known as chaand baliyan.

Maang Tikka: This piece of jewelry is worn on the forehead.

Chura and Bangles: These are made of glass, metal, and lac and wear on hands.

Payal and Bichua: These are worn in anklets and toes symbolizing cultural and marital significance.

For Men:

Kalgi: It is also known as sarpech. It is worn on turbans during special occasions or weddings.

Kada: It is a solid bangle made of gold and silver and worn in hand.

Neck Chains: These are either made of gold or silver and worn on the neck.

Brooches: These are often worn on sherwanis or jackets for a royal look.

Conclusion

The traditional dress of Delhi is nothing but a mix of different cultures, traditions, and designs. Every attire we’ve discussed above is elegant in its way. The charm they carry, and the beauty they share are unmatched compared to any Western outfits. Some of these trends are back in time and favorite of many youths. Come to Delhi, fall in love with these masterpieces, and become an integral part of India’s culture.