Ghagra choli, also known as lehenga choli, is one of the most popular ethnic outfits worn by women in India. It has been around for centuries but continues to be a staple in Indian celebrations and festivities even today. A ghagra choli set typically consists of three pieces – a choli or blouse that is usually cropped and ends above the waist, a lehenga or ghagra which is an ankle-length skirt, and a dupatta which is a long scarf or stole. The ghagra is often the most embellished piece in vibrant colors and intricate designs. It can be made from various fabrics like silk, cotton, georgette, chiffon and more.
Ghagra cholis are considered traditional Indian outfits that reflect the country’s rich cultural heritage. Each state and region in India has its own unique style of ghagra cholis featuring their traditional textiles, motifs and jewelry styles. For example, the Bandhani ghagras from Gujarat, Patola silk ghagras from Patan, Chanderi ghagras from Madhya Pradesh, Banarasi ghagras from Varanasi, and Kanjivaram silks from South India.
In many Indian communities, ghagra choli is considered bridal and festive wear. Brides wear specially made lehenga choli sets, often in red color, during their wedding ceremonies. The bridal lehengas are usually more ornate with extensive hand embroidery, mirror or sequins work known as zardozi, thread work, gota patti and more to create stunning designs on the fabric.
For festivities like Navratri where traditional dance forms like Garba and Dandiya Raas are performed, women prefer ghagra cholis for their flared skirts that allow free movement. Typically, these ghagras have gathered waistlines rather than fitted ones.
Beyond weddings and festivals, ghagra choli makes for great ethnic wear at family functions, cultural events as well as makes for a nice Indian vacation outfit too. They are also commonly seen in Indian movies or worn by celebrities on red carpets and similar Indian events.
Over the decades, many contemporary styles of the traditional ghagra choli have emerged to cater to the modern Indian woman’s sensibilities while keeping its cultural essence intact. Today, there are ghagra choli sets made with sheer fabrics, in fusion styles, with pants or skirts replacing the traditional flared ghagra, corset cholis, off-shoulder necklines and more.
The timeless appeal of a beautifully made ghagra choli ensures it continues to dominate Indian ethnic fashion for women. The outfit not just reflects the creativity and opulence of Indian design aesthetics but also connects every Indian woman to her rich cultural legacy. So popular is this outfit that it is now making its presence felt on global fashion ramps where many international designers are taking inspiration from the ghagra choli to create fusion collections. Indeed, ghagra choli is not just a popular Indian outfit but a sartorial wonder!