Evolution of Fashion in India: From ancient to 21st century

 

Indian fashion history consists of so much culture, heritage, elegance, authenticity, and vibrance. On the global level, fashion came into existence in 1826 by Charles Frederick. According to sources, the fashion originated in Paris to some extent in London. But if we talk about the invention of fashion in India you will be amazed to know that fashion in India was started in the Mauryan period that is, 322 to 185 BC where the earliest evidence available is the “Statue of Mother goddess” from Mathura.

Let’s discuss the fashion scenarios through the ages:

Ancient civilization:

The historical shreds of evidence prove that fashion in India was initiated just after the discovery of cotton in the country. Civilizations like the Indus valley and the Harrapan indicated the use of cotton fabric and all of the evidence is obtained in the excavations. The kings at that time usually wore turbans and jewelry too. The women’s clothing included knee-length skirts with bangles and beaded accessories.

Vedic era:

During the Vedic period, the styling of outfits was done using a single piece of cloth that was wrapped around the whole body and draped over the shoulder. The initial attire of Vedic men was ‘Dhotis’ and for women, it was ‘Sari’.

Post-Vedic era:

The post-Vedic period is also considered the time of dynasties in India which included the Mauryas, Sungas, Guptas, and Kushans. Clothing was much evolved during this period and a variety of fabrics like cotton, silk, wool, jute, etc. were introduced. Antariya (lower body garment) and Kayabandh (belts) were also introduced. Fine embroidery and dyeing of textiles also came into existence.

Mughal period:

Mughals took over the same fashion strategy from the Dynasties and advanced it in a way that made it look fresh and original. Not only the clothing part but the architecture too was fascinated by the craftsmanship in the Mughal period. Men wore long and short robes known as ‘Chogas’ and the emergence of pajama was started. Women opted for the fashion of Persia due to the parda system. When a Rajput princess entered in Mughal kingdom the influence of Hindu clothing started which resulted in the development of women’s clothing.

British period:

The British era resulted in the major advancement of women’s clothing where they shifted from ethnic to skirts and trousers. The introduction of long collars, two-piece suits, and pinched waists gave an update to men’s clothing.

The 90’s magic:

The most stylish era of fashion in India was the 90s. The advent of disco fashion and the introduction of shimmery and glittery costumes gave an alteration to the fashion industry. Men’s fashion witnessed denim and leather jackets whereas women’s fashion encountered floral dresses, long skirts, and dungarees.

The 21st century:

The current era has given the Indian fashion industry a tag of cosmopolitan rather than region-based. The trend of shorts, pants, and bold outfits in women’s style gave people a broader perspective of idealizing fashion and diminishing narrow mindsets.

Which one’s your favorite era? Tell me in the comments.