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Creating an ethnic wardrobe involves curating a collection of clothing and accessories inspired by the rich heritage and traditional elements of Indian culture. Here are some steps to help you create an ethnic wardrobe:
Ā Define Your Style: Determine the specific ethnic style or theme you want to incorporate into your wardrobe. It could be based on a particular region's traditional clothing (e.g., Punjabi suits, Bengali sarees), or a fusion of multiple styles, or a combination of contemporary and vintage indian aesthetics.
- Research and Explore: Learn about different types of traditional Indian clothing, including sarees, salwar suits, lehengas etc. Research various fabric options, weaves and embroideries. Explore online resources, fashion magazines, and visit local boutiques or markets to gather inspiration.
- Start with Essentials: Begin building your ethnic wardrobe with versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched easily. Choose classic styles and colors that suit your personal taste and can be worn on different occasions.
- Experiment with Silhouettes: Ethnic wear offers a variety of silhouettes to choose from. Explore different cuts, necklines, sleeve lengths, and drapes to find styles that flatter your body type and reflect your personal style.
- Embrace Colors and Fabrics: Indian ethnic wear is known for its vibrant colors and rich fabrics. Incorporate a diverse range of hues and fabrics into your wardrobe. Experiment with silk, cotton, chiffon, georgette, or handloom fabrics. Consider the occasion and season while selecting colors and fabrics.
- Accessorize Thoughtfully: Accessorizing is crucial to complete an ethnic look. Add traditional jewelry such as earrings, necklaces, bangles, or bracelets that complement your outfits. Consider including accessories like bindis, maang tikkas, or waist belts for an added touch. Pay attention to footwear choices, opting for traditional juttis, mojaris, or sandals that complement your outfits.
- Pay Attention to Detail: Ethnic wear often features intricate embroidery, prints, or embellishments. Look for pieces with beautiful craftsmanship and attention to detail. This can include handwoven fabrics, hand embroidery, hand block prints, zari work, mirror work, or stone embellishments. These details add depth and uniqueness to your wardrobe.
- Empowerment and identity: Be aware of the stories and symbolism behind ethnic attires you choose to wear. Each garment represents a unique aspect of India's diverse cultural tapestry, highlighting the craftsmanship, traditions, and identities of different regions and communities. Make sure you are able to talk about the weave or embroidery or the fabric that you are wearing. It becomes more than just a fashion statement. It becomes a way to express your roots, values and connection to your community.
- Take Care of Maintenance: Ethnic garments often require specific care and maintenance due to their delicate fabrics and intricate work. Follow the care instructions provided with each garment to ensure they last long and stay in good condition.
- Gradually Expand and Evolve: Building an ethnic wardrobe is an ongoing process. Gradually add new pieces to your collection as you come across unique finds or as your style evolves. Attend cultural events, exhibitions, or festivals to discover new designers and artisans who specialize in ethnic wear. Follow brands who showcase and sell authentic ethnic clothing.
- Thrift shop, repurpose and upcycle: It is not necessary that each piece in your ethnic wardrobe be new and expensive. You can discover one-of-a-kind pieces, vintage items through thrift shopping that you may not find anywhere else. Repurposing and upcycling ethnic clothes or fabrics can also create unique and personalized pieces that would help you create your own style statement.
- Embrace diverse ethnic wear once in a while: Though you may be comfortable wearing ethnic attire belonging to your own state or community, every once in a while, do try out attires of a different culture to add novelty and charm to your wardrobe. For example, If you normally wear Banarasi sarees at gatherings or functions, you can change the trend by draping an Assamese Mekhla Chaddor to add a new cultural component to your style.
Remember, creating an ethnic wardrobe is a personal journey, and your choices should reflect your style and cultural inspirations. Have fun exploring different elements of Indian culture and curating a collection that represents your unique ethnic style.