Women Shalwar Kameez

The ethnic clothing worn by people who reside in the country of Pakistan and are of Pakistani descent are representative of the culture of the nation. It is an amalgamation of the different ideologies of the people of the country. The clothing also takes into account the weather conditions of the region.

Due to the long, shared history that the country shares with India, there is quite a similarity in the dressing patterns when comparisons are made in certain regions. Pakistani clothing also showcases similarities to ethnic groups of central Asia. Of course today, many youngsters in Pakistan have embraced Western style of clothing.

Shalwar kameez (shalwar qameez) is the national dress of Pakistan. Shalwars are loose pants designed in various styles. The shalwar is tied at the waist with the help of a drawstring. More recently, elastic is also used in place of drawstring. The fit is generally baggy or tapering.

Narrow tight-fitting shalwars are known as churidars. The kameez is large and loose-fitting tunic, worn with the baggy shalwar. Men as well as women wear the same attire, with a difference in the color of the cloth, fitting, silhouettes and the embellishments used.

Men also prefer Sherwani and vest along with the shalwar kameez. Kandahari or Jinnah cap is also commonly paired with a Sherwani or a shalwar kameez. A Sherwani is a long coat worn with a shalwar and is generally made from heavy fabrics. Peshawari Chappals and Khussa are the most preferred footwear among men. In regions where temperature is considerably cold, men opt for Pashmina or Shahtoosh shawls to keep them warm.

Shalwar kameez and lehenga are the traditional attire worn by women in Pakistan. While shalwar kameez is also worn as a daily wear, lehenga is a typical attire for ceremonies and special occasions. Interesting patterns woven with lace are used to add feminine element to the lehenga. Women also wear a dupatta with both shalwar kameez and lehenga. Dupattas are long yards of cloth; their colors and patterns are coordinated as per the entire ensemble. Women also wear scarves or shawls with the salwar kameez in the chilly winters.

Apart from the traditional clothing, Pakistanis also don western attire including shirts, trousers, jeans, etc. However, traditional clothing definitely has a strong foothold in the modern society of Pakistan even today.