By Editor Do Delhi people wear traditional dress? Well, if you came searching for that, well, you’ll be a bit shocked to know the answer, which is yes. Sure, Delhi is mostly a modern region, but there are a huge number of people who like the traditional way of dressing; some wear it regularly, while others prefer it on special occasions and events. On that very note, let’s start this post where we’ll talk about the traditional dress of Delhi, both for men and women. Here we go.
Traditional Dress of Delhi for Women
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Women in Delhi have plenty of beautiful traditional options, no doubt, and most outfits are perfect for both daily comfort and special events. Let’s take a quick look at the most popular ones, shall we?
1. Salwar Kameez
Without a doubt, this is the basic outfit for the largest part of women in Delhi. It consists of a long kameez, a comfortable salwar, and a dupatta. During summers, light cotton sets are chosen as the Delhi heat is quite harsh, you know? But yes, for weddings or parties, heavy silk, georgette, or chiffon designs with mirror work, zari, or stone work dominate the choice. Put on an embroidered dupatta, and you are set or good-to-go for any function.
2. Sarees
Saree still holds a special place in Delhi’s traditional wear. For major events like weddings or pujas, these two types are the most loved:
- Zardosi sarees: Rich gold and silver thread work, ideal for big wedding functions.
- Chikankari sarees: Lightweight and elegant, perfect for daytime or evening gatherings.
All you need to do is pair the saree with matching jewellery, and the whole look becomes incredibly graceful just like that.
3. Ghagra Choli
Really? Well, you won’t believe it but right here in Delhi as well, Gharara or ghagra choli is the most preferred outfit during the Navratri, Karva Chauth, or festive nights. These three pieces of cloth, like the flared skirt, the fitted blouse, and the dupatta, together make a perfect party look. The vivid colors, gota-patti, and mirror work are the main reasons for its instant standout.
4. Anarkali Suits & Sharara Sets
These outfits are very popular among younger women in Delhi.
- Anarkali suits flow beautifully and look royal with broad borders.
- Sharara sets come with wide-bottomed pants and a short kurti.
Not a single doubt that both are great for mehendi, sangeet, or reception nights.
5. Dupatta & Accessories
Any traditional outfit is made perfect with a dupatta, no matter if it is a silk, a chiffon, or a cotton one with heavy borders. Just like many states in India, here as well, some of the most loved accessories are kundan sets, chandbalis, maang tikkas, and bangles, which can be used to give that last festive touch.
Traditional Dress of Delhi for Men
Usually, men just keep it simple in their daily life, but when it comes to traditional events, they put on their best clothes. These are the most important ones.
1. Kurta Pajama
The timeless attire is suitable for nearly every event and it is just like this in many other states in the country. Cotton kurtas are perfect for everyday wear or poojas, whereas silk or embroidered kurtas are kept for festive occasions. Some go with the modern version of it, like wearing a Kurta with jeans, and that goes perfectly well too.
2. Sherwani
We must say that for wedding celebrations, a sherwani is the first preference by far. It’s basically a long coat-type garment that is worn over a kurta along with churidar or tight trousers. Luxurious materials, zardozi embroidery, and sequins are some of the elements that make it look like a princely attire.
3. Dhoti Kurta
See, you’ll rarely see someone in a dhoti kurta in a modern or progressive region like Delhi, but still, a lot of people prefer to keep in touch with their roots and that is why mostly or only the older adults prefer to wear this traditional dress.
Traditional Accessories for Men
Yes, men wear some accessories too, but these are often just a touch-up in their main dress, you know, something to complete their traditional look. These are:
- Kalgi or sarpech on the turban
- Heavy kada (gold or silver)
- Brooches, pocket squares, and mojris for a polished traditional finish