By Editor No doubt, Gujarat is among the most culturally rich states in the country, and one aspect that shows off its culture right away is the way people dress in this state. So, let’s, for now, talk about the traditional dress of Gujarat, both for men and women. It is going to be fun and of course, a vibrant dive into the culture of Gujarat, so let’s get to it.
Traditional Dress for Men in Gujarat
1. Kediyu or Angrakhu
Well, while Kediyu or Angrakhu is not an everyday dress for men in Gujarat, it sure is a significant one because you’ll often see men wearing these in important events like Garba Nights, fairs, or during some festivals. What is this, though? Oh, it’s like a long-sleeved, flared top that somewhat looks like a frock or jacket. And to style things up a bit, you’ll often see them decorated with fancy mirror work and embroidery. And usually, these are in bright colors like red, green, orange, or yellow.
2. Chorno
This is what goes with Kediyu, and it is called Chorno down there in Gujarat. To put it simply, it is more like a stitched version of a dhoti, that’s all! Usually made from soft cotton, it is somewhat perfect for the hot weather in Gujarat, and still, in the rural parts of Gujarat, you’ll see men wearing the simple version of this in less colorful clothing.
3. Dhoti
In many parts of the country, the Dhoti is a classic bottom wear, and that’s pretty much the same in Gujarat as well. It’s just a long cloth wrapper around the waist and legs, that’s all!
4. Kurta
If you go visit Gujarat, you’ll know that you’re in the state when you see men wearing Kurtas. It is an everyday wear for many, and can be stylish enough for big festivals and some important occasions in one’s life. So yes, during festivals, they go for embroidered or printed ones.
Note: The Phento or turban completes the entire look. It’s a folded piece of cloth tied around the head. The color and style can show the wearer’s region or social background. Red or saffron turbans are common for weddings and religious occasions.
Accessories for Men
Yes, in Gujarat, men often style up their attire with accessories as well. And these are pretty much common in other states of the country, but when paired with the classic or traditional dress of Gujarat for men, these accessories do work up pretty great. Here are some examples:
- Gold rings or chains
- Silver earrings or hoops (common in tribal groups)
- Waistbands (Kamarbandh) for special events
- Embroidered Mojris or traditional shoes for festivals
Traditional Dress for Women in Gujarat
1. Chaniya Choli (Ghagra Choli)
Whenever people talk about the traditional dress of Gujarati women, they often think of something like Ghagra Choli, which is true, it is absolutely the go-to dress for women in this state. It is also known as Chaniya Choli, and it is actually a complete dress, so let’s break down this style and see what goes into it. Here:
- Chaniya: It is a flared skirt with mirror work, embroidery, and Bandhani prints.
- Choli (Polku): This one is a top wear like a short blouse, often tied at the back, full of rich embroidery and mirror designs.
- Odhni/Dupatta: To complete the Chaniya Choli look, there is often a long scarf draped gracefully over the shoulder or head.
2. Chaniyo
For those who don’t know, yes, Chaniyo refers to the skirt or lehenga part. It’s usually made with heavy embroidery like Rabari or Heer Bharat work. It has that chill and stylish vibe mixing in some way, and those vibrant colors make it stunning.
3. Sarees in Seedha Pallu Style
Now, apart from the previous dresses we mentioned, women in Gujarat, of course, like to wear sarees, and it is more like in the Seedha Pallu style, where the pallu comes across the front.
Some of the popular ones are:
- Patola Saree: Rich double-ikat silk, worn by elite families.
- Panetar Saree: White with a red border, gifted to brides.
- Gharchola: Red with golden checks, symbolizing married life.
Jewellery and Accessories for Women
Without a single doubt, you can’t say that a woman’s traditional dress is complete without jewelry and accessories, right? That’s pretty much the case in Gujarati culture as well. Common pieces include:
- Mangalsutra for married women
- Nath (nose ring) with gems
- Baajubandh (armlet)
- Balis (earrings)
- Kandora (waistband)
- Key rings with tassels, worn around the waist to hold house keys
- A Bindi and Sindoor also complete the daily traditional look.