Indian Kurtis' Glorious History - Blog

Although many may be familiar with the term "Kurti," they may not know the origin of the term. However, the essential backstory of Kurtis ought to be familiar to everybody. It was supposedly developed from the long kurta typical in Northern India. 

Indian, Bangladeshi, Sri Lankan, Nepalese, and Pakistani men and women have worn kurta as part of their everyday wardrobes since the garment's inception. At first, only males in these nations wore the traditional Indian attire known as a kurta. Still, as time progressed, it became a standard part of women's wardrobes, known as a Kurti for the feminine gender.

Because of its basic design, you may wear the Kurti for various occasions. Kurti is often long and flowy, making them ideal for lounging around the house or attending social events. You can also wear a traditional kurti to functions and events. They need not be heavily embellished to look fancy, as you can wear a simple kurti with dressy bottoms. 

For example, a plain peach colour kurti can look grand when paired with sequined silver leggings, long earrings, a lovely neckpiece and heels. Further, depending on the fabric, you may wear a Kurti in various seasons. Many people choose breezy cotton Kurtis to survive the sweltering heat of the Indian summer.

According to historians, Kurtas were originally from Central Asia. Still, they became a staple of Mughal-era clothing when Muslims conquered the nation. Their popularity later grew throughout the 19th century when people recognized several philosophers, academics, and artists for wearing basic kurtas of plain cotton. 

Eventually, women adopted the style, and the tailors shortened the kurta to become the Kurti we know today. Each region in India adopted its own traditional designs and techniques that have remained timelessly elegant over the years. 

For example, a Rajasthani Kurti usually has colourful block prints with mirror work. A Gujrati Kurti often has zari work and is worn with a vest. Similarly, a Kashmiri Kurti is generally plain with heavy embroidery and zari work. 

It was not only the Muslims who used to wear kurtis, but women of other religions and cultures also adopted this style due to its comfort and elegance. As a result, many started designing their own by using prints distinct from their culture. For example, the regions of Sindh, Pakistan, and Ajrakhpur, Kutch district of India India are home to the distinctive block printing technique known as Ajrak. 

These ajrak Kurtis are hand-block printed with elaborate motifs and patterns in vivid hues. The colours are primarily deep red and indigo, with white and black defining the geometric symmetry of the designs. For centuries, ajrakh print kurtis have represented Sindhi heritage and identity. 

During the 1960s and 1970s, when Indian culture significantly influenced American art, fashion, and music, kurtas were famous worldwide. The hippie movement found a natural aesthetic match in kurtas and Kurtis, with their freewheeling spirit and flexible form. 

They are dressed up with earrings and bracelets as well. Most women in western countries create a fusion with vibrantly coloured kurtis and western clothes. For example, wear a parrot green kurti with denim trousers or palazzo pants for a casual look. 

After a decline in the 1980s and 1990s, they began to regain steam in the 2000s. Indian tunics, which come in a wide variety of patterns and fabrics, have recently enjoyed a renaissance in popularity in the United States, mainly due to the rise in interest in yoga and meditation. 

In India, young women also prefer wearing dressy kurtis instead of western clothes since they are so comfortable. Even basic cotton kurtis can look grand because of their embroidery or prints. For example, a cotton chikankari kurti is not only stylish but also easy to wear in humid conditions. 

Chikan is a form of hand embroidery that is both intricate and refined. You may do it on various textile materials, including muslin, silk, chiffon, organza, net, etc. Although artisans usually do the embroidery with white thread, the base fabric can be of any colour. You can dye it according to your preference.

You can wear Kurtis to the office, formal parties, and festive events. They are a staple for every woman since they are so versatile, and you can dress them up with bangles, heels, and long earrings. In addition, Kurtis are available at low prices because of their variety. 

CloudTailor is an easy and affordable way to get custom kurtis made. If you order a custom kurti, the tailor will come to your house to take measurements, and you may expect prompt delivery. There's a wide range of sizes and materials to pick from, and experienced designers will help you with the same.