AmazingGenie Post-independence, India has seen a drastic change in its fashion culture. While the traditional style of clothing has been preserved, there has been a distinct influence of western fashion on the Indian apparel. The latter has been mainly attributed to the increasing integration of India in the global economy and the rise of the youth culture in the country. In the late 1950s and early 1960s, Indian fashion was all about vibrant colors, intricate embellishments, and intricate drapes. The predominant fabrics were cotton, khadi, and silks. Women were seen wearing sarees, salwar suits, or kurtas paired with dupattas. Men wore simple and comfortable kurtas with pyjamas or dhotis. The traditional garb was mostly inspired by Mughal and Rajputana designs and was popularized by Bollywood movies. The 70s saw the increasing influence of western fashion on Indian clothing. Men started wearing western-style trousers and shirts, and women started wearing bell-bottoms, platform shoes, and halter tops. This was also the era when the concept of ‘designer wear’ was introduced in the country, with fashion designers such as Ritu Kumar, Rohit Bal, and Manish Malhotra creating unique collections.
The 80s and 90s witnessed the emergence of the ‘Indo-Western’ style of clothing. This was a combination of traditional and western styles, which resulted in stylish and comfortable outfits for both men and women. Kurta-pyjamas, sarees, and salwar suits were given a modern twist with the use of vibrant colors and contemporary designs. Today, Indian fashion is all about fusion wear, with traditional Indian fabrics such as silk, khadi, and cotton being blended with international style elements. Popular fashion trends include Indo-western outfits, fusion sarees, palazzo pants, crop tops, and high-waisted trousers. There is also a strong emphasis on sustainability and eco-friendly fashion, with many brands focusing on using organic fabrics and upcycling old clothes. In conclusion, the evolution of fashion in post-independent India has been quite remarkable. From traditional styles to modern fusion wear, the changing trends reflect the country’s increasing integration with the global fashion industry. As the country continues to embrace new trends, fashion in India is sure to take on an even more exciting form in the years to come.
