Traditional Dress of Assam – Costumes For Men & Women

Assam is called the most beautiful state in northeast India, known for its amazing mountains, weather, and tea gardens.  This state has amazing rivers, rich cultures, and lush green gardens that always astonish outsiders. The simplicity of locals, their warmth, and their traditional lifestyle are reflected in their clothing style. Their traditional dresses also reflect cultural heritage and natural beauty. Most people prefer handmade clothes, which are woven on looms.

Cotton and silk clothes are a key priority among most men and women in Assam because these clothes are comfortable, look elegant, and are suitable for the humid climate. Let’s take a deep dive into the traditional dress of Assam for Men and Women.

Assam Traditional Dress for Men

1. Dhoti and Chadar

Dhoti is the most common traditional garment for men in Assam. It is a long piece of cloth that is wrapped around the waist and legs. You can find that most people prefer wearing a white or cream dhoti in colour; meanwhile, you can also find people wearing a Chadar or Seleng Chadar instead of a Dhoti. It is a rectangular piece of cloth that is draped over the shoulders or wrapped around the upper body. Chadar is often made of silk or cotton, and it is decorated with fine borders to add elegance to the outfit.

2. Kurta and Shirt

Another common traditional dress element among most men is the Kurta, which suits well with the dhoti. Most men prefer wearing a Kurta or a simple cotton shirt, which suits well for daily as well as occasional wear. The kurta is knee-length, and it has full sleeves. You can notice plain kurtas as well as light embroidery. During festivals, functions, and celebration time, men wear kurtas which are made of Muga silk, and the shiny golden colour gives them a royal look.

3. Gamusa (Gamosa)

The gamusa is one of the most important symbols of Assamese culture. It is a rectangular handwoven cloth with a white base and red borders. It is used by both men and women. Men use the gamusa as a towel, a headcloth, or drape it around the neck or shoulders as a mark of respect. It is also offered as a sign of honour during ceremonies. The gamusa holds deep emotional value for the people of Assam. It represents love, respect, and purity.

Assam Traditional Dress for Women

1. Mekhela Chador

Mekhela Chador is the most common and traditional dress for women in Assam, and it is a two-piece outfit that is handwoven from cotton and silk. The outfit contains:

• Mekhela: It is the lower part of the dress. It looks like a long skirt and is draped around the waist and pleated neatly.
• Chador: It is the upper part, a long piece of cloth wrapped around the body and draped over the shoulder, similar to a saree pallu.

Women wear cotton mekhela chadors, which are for daily use, and silk ones are for functions, celebrations, and other purposes. The Muga silk is famous for its luxurious look, and it shines with a golden glow, which makes it a perfect companion among the rich.

2. Jewellery and Ornament

Jewellery plays a crucial role in making the outfit complete. The ornamentals are made of gold, silver, and brass, where you can spot unique designs. The popular jewellery pieces include:

• Junbiri: A crescent-shaped gold pendant.
• Dugdugi: A heart-shaped necklace.
• Gamkharu: A broad gold or silver bangle.
• Thuria: Traditional earrings with beautiful floral patterns.

Most women wear these ornaments during festivals, weddings, and cultural programs to complete their attire. The fun thing about Assamese women’s dressing style is that it is inspired by nature, where sun, moon, and flower designs are common.

3. Footwear and Hair Accessories

Footwear plays a key role in making the outfit subtle and shine with simplicity. Women wear simple sandals or slippers with the traditional dress. However, during cultural functions, most women prefer wearing embroidered footwear that matches the outfit.

Bottom Line

Modern dressing style has influenced people around the globe, and Assam’s people also wear modern shirts, jeans, tops, and similar clothes sometimes. However, the traditional dress of Assam reflects rich culture, art, and beauty, which most people still prefer over the modern clothes.