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Summer has arrived, and so is our intention to stock up our wardrobes with elegant ethnic sets. When I scan my last year’s clothes, the variety seems to be much less than I usually have at this time of the year. I know; the reason is Coronavirus and the related lockdowns that turned our lives upside down. This year, I’m going to shop my heart out, and my elaborated list is ready. When it comes to ethnic wear, I’m spoiled for choice with a fantastic variety of Kurta sets, Palazzo Kurti set, Sarees, Lehenga-Choli and Churidar pyjama sets, both online and offline. The fusion sets are also winning hearts and taking the market by storm. So, be at the edge of your seat as I share how to level up the style game with the ethnic sets.

1. Classic Salwar Kurta Set

For me, Salwar Kurta is the most comfortable wear. It includes a long or short kurta (ladies shirt) paired with a loose pleated lower called salwar. A dupatta is worn over the ensemble in the traditional sense, but it is quickly disappearing in modern times. There are different versions of salwar like Patiala salwar, Dhoti salwar, asymmetric salwar and many more.

Style tip: Get yourself equipped with some trendy Salwar Suits for casual as well as formal wear. A good Salwar suit never fails to impress.

2. Trendy Palazzo Kurti Set

I love wearing Palazzo Kurtis because it is the evolved form of the Salwar suit. The difference between a salwar and a Palazzo is that the palazzo is flared at the lower end, whereas the Salwar is narrower at the lower end. I’m so much obsessed with the palazzo kurti sets these days that most of my summer wear is simply palazzo kurtis.

Style tip: Explore the market and get Palazzo Kurti sets as per the latest trends. Wear flats or platform heels for the perfect look.

3. Stylish Churidar Pyjami Set

Churidar pyjama is tight lower wear that makes you look slim and trim. You can wear a loose or tight kurta/kurti with a Churidar. An embroidered dupatta with a simple Churidar pyjama set can work wonders. I usually pair the Churidar suit with a Punjabi/Marwari jutti (traditional footwear) to enhance the look.

Style tip: Go for the flexible lycra pyjamas that are comfortable and look great. Get yourself a good Punjabi jutti.

4. Graceful Lehanga Choli Set

Lehanga is a long pleated skirt that’s tied at the waist. Lehanga Choli is the dress I have saved for special occasions like marriages and functions. Lehangas come in a wide variety, from simple (thread) work to heavily embellished ones. At marriage functions, the bride is supposed to wear the brightest and the heaviest lehanga. Choli, a cropped top is worn with lehanga, and a good dupatta enhances the overall charm.

Style tip: Save wearing Lehanga choli on special occasions (only).

5. Sensual Sarees

I remember my mother wearing sarees comfortably and quite frequently. It’s not the case with me. I am happy in my Palazzo kurti or Salwar suit. But I do have a boxful of sarees, and I wear them occasionally. I know many women who wear sarees every day with elegance. I envy them. Honestly, there’s no comparison to a simple saree that is sensually adorned. Ladies, keep your stock of sarees ready and shine when the need arises;)

Style tip: Practice wearing a saree well before the final show. Choose good heels to pair with a saree, and it does matter.

This is my curated list of Indian ethnic wear. Do you have any particular favourite ethnic wear or suggestions?
Do share in the comment box.