Clothing for women in India?

Question

Hi, I'm planning on spending a year abroad in the near future, and I'm thinking of spending that time in India ( a country I love very very much! ) but I'm not sure what tradition dictates for women's clothing there. I've always seen such lovely pictures of saris and I wonder if this is still the norm for young women to wear on a daily basis? And as I don't really see myself as a tourist since I'll be studying there- would I be better suited to stick with my Western Wear or try out native clothing? Any help is much appreciated.

Answer 1

Hmm, it also depends on where in India you plan to stay.

If you are going to be in a city then western clothes are just fine.

My advice to you is to buy salwaar kameez's.  Lots of cotton ones if you are in a hot city.  They will help with you assimilating into the culture as well as keep you cool in the heat.  

If you plan to stay in the north then, you want cotton salwaar kameeze's for the hot weather, and probably jeans and sweaters for the winter time.  When I am in India I do not bother with Saree's as I find Salwaar Kameez much easier to handle and wash.

Feel free to contact me if you have any specific questions about the outfits etc.  Hope you have a wonderful year in the country!

Answer 2

Hi - people would appreciate you more if you adapted to local customs, especially considering your stay of one year. It shows respect and gains respect.

The way women dress in India -- sarees are still very popular, worn by a majority of women for all occasions. Worn well, these can be very elegant and attractive.

Younger girls, especially, college students, tend to wear western clothing these days in the four main metros but, by and large, a lot of women wear the comfortable salwar-kameez or churidars. These can range from elegant cool cotton outfits (sensible everyday wear for a hot climate ! ) to vibrant silks and fancy trendy evening wear. then, further, to  jazzy, dazzling, elaborate party wear type stuff that can set you back a few hundred dollars each..

There are good outlets in the metros where you can get these pre-made or, you can have them custom-made by good tailors -- the salwars/churidars are sold as "sets" (stitched or unstitched)  and available everywhere. If you mention the city you'll be in, readers can provide recommendations to good shopping areas/shops.

All the best and enjoy your stay.

Answer 3

Well western wear is now quite common in India, particularly among the young people. Further there is a dress ladies here prefer, it's known as "churidar kurta". It's a very convenient attire, the dress being similar to a top and pants. Whatever you do, please dress in such a manner that you don't expose your body as you would do in Europe and Amercia. The culture here is that women are expected to keep themselves covered, and provocative dress will only bring unwanted attention and trouble. Once you settle down and get used to the people and their habits, you will necessarily choose your attire with local perception I am sure. Best of luck and have a good time here. We Indians are generally informal, open and friendly, and also curious. India is also a safe place for all except those who invite trouble. Take care. guyatind.