Magic of embroidery on Indian salwar-suits

 


Embroidery, which is the technique of weaving beautiful beads, stones, and threads on fabric, has never gone out of fashion. This technique or art has been practiced by many people throughout the world especially young women and girls. This art has its origin in rural communities in which women used their hands to decorate beautiful pieces of fabric that were patronized by the upper classes. In this way, women were able to contribute to the rural economy as well as getting recognition for their creativity and skill. In earlier times, when embroidery was done by hand (as handicrafts) it used to take a longer period of time depending on the intricacies of the style. Sometimes, three or four people were required to produce a piece of embroidered work. However, in modern times, due to advancements in technology and the availability of various machines for example sewing machines, embroidered works can be produced commercially. In India, different types of embroidery have been practiced in different regions for many centuries. That is why the style of embroidery which is found in India, varies from region to region borrowing elements from different cultures and creating something unique.


There are many Indian embroidery styles that are popularly worn by people in India as well as abroad. Some of the popular embroidery styles are as follows :

Chikankari - This style originated in northern India  (mainly Uttar Pradesh) and has been rumored to be introduced by Noor Jahan the Mughal queen. It is a kind of monochromatic embroidery that is done on the same color cloth. For instance, white threaded embroidery on white cloth. This is the most popular type of embroidery and can be seen in women’s salwar suits, lehengas, and dupattas.

Zari/zardosi - This type of embroidery originated in the Mughalian era. It is done by weaving metallic threads and beads on silk or linen. It was used to show the opulence of the richer classes and was majorly worn by nobles and rich merchants.

Phulkari - This type of embroidery originated in the Punjab region around the 15th century. It was mainly done by women in villages and is mentioned in the folklore of Heer and Ranjha. Phulkari is done on dull cloth mostly handwoven khadi, by embroidering colorful threads on it in close fit geographical patterns.

Shisha - This type was brought to India in the 17th century by Iranians and was patronized in Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Haryana. It is done by cross-stitching tiny mirrors on the cloth.


Embroidery on salwar-suits

Salwar-suits are the most common type of women’s daily wear in India. From schools to offices, women and girls wear salwar suits and it is also an extremely comfortable wear. Moreover, women today are donning salwar suits of different styles at home, parties, or work effortlessly. Embroidery on suits is always beautiful and elegant. They can also carry heavy embroidery without a fuss. Also, the type of embroidery on suits varies on the occasion. For example, embroidery on bridal suits will be very different from embroidery on daily wear suits.

Chikankari (due to its monochromatic nature) is preferred on daily wear and workwear salwar-suits by women. Phulkari on the other hand is preferred for festive occasions owing to its bright colors and big patterns. 

Embroidered suits display the vibrance of our culture with elegance. Those with a keen eye for style will always be enamored by any embroidery on salwar suits. 

Thus, they are undoubtedly a magical part of today’s ethnic chic fashion. 


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