India is a great country of tradition and diversity. There are rich colors present everywhere with everyone having a smile on their face. In a country with so much positivity, one thing stands out the most: their fascinating variety of clothing, ranging from traditional to western. However, there are so many different pieces, that if you are anything like me, you would get confused very easily. So here are five different types of clothing pieces you should have! Next time you go to India to buy these wonderful pieces, and do not forget to bargain!
1. Saree
I am sure that even if you have not gone to India, you have heard this one because it is one of the most common of them all. A saree is one long piece of cloth with a beautiful design that drapes around the body and over the person's shoulder. It is often worn with a blouse and has a petticoat. However, this piece may be the most beautiful of them all, but it is the hardest and probably the most uncomfortable because it is not very easy to move in, considering that you have to hold it so nothing falls.
2. Salwar Kameez / Churidar
A salwar kameez/ churidar is also know as a "suit" in India and other South Asian countries like Pakistan. However, there are so many different types of suits that they started calling it this. In this piece of clothing, there are a pair of leggings and a very fancy top that typically runs down to your knees. This is probably the most common type of clothing in India because they range from very simple (like your everyday wear) to very heavy, party-ready outfits. Wearing these is a very simple process. It's like putting on pants and a t-shirt, but they can make a bold statement with all of the rich colors an extravagant designs they come in!
3. Kurti / Kurta
This one is probably one of my most favorites because it is just like a long shirt, but it can do so much. The long shirt is so versatile that one can wear it with leggings if it is long, like to your knees, or you can wear it with jeans. It's like the desi version of a normal shirt! A kurta comes in just as many colors and varieties as the others, and they tend to be much cheaper. In addition, the fabric tends to last longer. I know I always have some hung in my closet!
4) Lehenga Choli
This next one is basically like a full length skirt and a shirt, but the grace and elegance that is created when one wears this is one that nothing can copy or even beat. Even if one of these pieces has no designs and just a simple border, anyone wearing it will look amazing because of the way this piece stays together and flows down. These types of pieces are often worn when you go dancing like at a Garba festival because it is easy to move in, and it doesn't get in the way of anything.
5) Anarkali
This last one is one just like the others in the way that it comes in many bold and rich colors and patterns, but the difference is that there is no "simple" for this outfit. When someone wears this piece, it will always look fancy for a number of reasons, including the gorgeous, complex net designs or the pattern of jewels around the neck area. Sometimes, it's just the popping print that makes an anarkali stand out. When it comes to super fancy and formal, like weddings, this is my go to!