READIPRINT FASHIONS
The ghagra choli is also referred to as chaniya choli. It is traditional Indian attire that finds a place in nearly every woman’s closet! Ghagra cholis have been traced back to ancient Vedic times and were often mentioned in epic stories.
Ghagra cholis are a favourite dress amongst women, mainly because they offer flexibility and comfort while exuding a great deal of feminine elegance. Over time and depending on the various designers’ interpretations, the ghagra choli has evolved and adapted according to the fashion trends of the period.
Appearance of the Ghagra Choli
It typically consists of three parts: a blouse, a skirt and a dupatta. The ghagra or skirt is floor length and can be cut in many shapes, i.e. A-length, mermaid, straight, etc. during festivals
such as dandiya/garba, a flared skirt that has a circular cut is preferred. The ghagra is usually heavy as it is embroidered and embellished with many details. Typical embellishments include
zari, mirrors, sequins, doris, etc.
The blouse or choli is figure hugging and often features embellishments which are stitched on to the front and or back of the blouse. The blouse extends down the front and ends just above the navel.
The dupatta is a long shawl or scarf that is either in a complementary or opposite color of the ghagra choli. It is draped in a variety of styles, but the simplest is just over the left shoulder and around the body.
Popularity of the Ghagra Choli
This attire is a favourite amongst women and girls in Gujarat and Rajasthan. During Navratri festival, women in Gujarat dress up in brightly colored flare style ghagra cholis with patch border and mirror
work. These look stunning as the women dance and play garba.
A simpler version of the ghagra called the ‘pavda’ is worn by teen girls in Southern India. Its colourful and decorative appearance, ease of movement and figure-complementing shape are just some of the reasons for the immense popularity of this outfit.
Designer Ghagra Cholis
The designer version of this traditional outfit incorporates daring styles, cuts and designs. They often feature cholis that are collared, backless or spaghetti strapped. The ghagra displays
intricate hand-woven embroidery work, abstract prints and modern shapes.
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