Ethnic Style

To express their own ethnic heritage or identity.
For example, some people of Indian origin may wear a sari or a kurta to celebrate their cultural roots.

To show respect or appreciation for another ethnic group.
For example, some tourists may wear a sarong or a pareo when visiting tropical islands in Asia or the Pacific.

To participate in a cultural event or festival.
For example, some people may wear a folk costume to join a carnival or a parade.

To support a social cause or movement.
For example, some people may wear a traditional ethnic garment to raise awareness or solidarity for a marginalized or oppressed group.

African clothing: This includes colorful fabrics, patterns, and prints that are influenced by the various regions and tribes of Africa.
Some common items are dashikis, kaftans, kente cloth, and Ankara prints.

Mexican clothing: This includes embroidered blouses, dresses, and skirts that are often decorated with floral motifs and bright colors.
Some common items are huipils, rebozos, ponchos, and serapes.

Indian clothing: This includes garments that are made of silk, cotton, or other fabrics that are draped, wrapped, or stitched in various ways.
Some common items are sarees, lehengas, kurtas, and salwar kameez.

Bohemian clothing: This includes loose-fitting, flowing, and comfortable clothing that are often embellished with lace, crochet, fringe, or beads.
Some common items are tunics, maxi dresses, peasant tops, and harem pants.

Kimono: A traditional Japanese garment that consists of a long robe with wide sleeves and a sash.
Kimonos are usually made of silk and feature intricate patterns and motifs.
They can be worn for formal and informal occasions such as weddings and tea ceremonies.
Kimonos are also popular among celebrities and fashion designers who incorporate them into their own styles.

Sari: A long piece of fabric that is draped around the body and over one shoulder, creating a graceful and elegant silhouette.
Saris are worn by women in India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and other parts of South Asia.
Saris can be worn with a blouse and a petticoat underneath, or with a crop top and pants for a modern twist.

Dashiki: A loose-fitting shirt that covers the upper body and reaches the thighs.
Dashikis are worn by men and women in West Africa, especially in Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, and Mali.
Dashikis are usually made of cotton and feature colorful patterns and prints, often with geometric or symbolic shapes.
Dashikis can be worn with pants, skirts, or dresses, or as a standalone garment.
Dashikis are also associated with the Black Power movement and African American culture in the 1960s and 1970s.

Dirndl: A dress that consists of a bodice, a blouse, a skirt, and an apron.
The dirndl is worn by women in Germany, Austria, Switzerland and other parts of Central Europe.
Dirndls are traditionally worn for folk festivals, such as Oktoberfest, or for special occasions, such as weddings or christenings.
Dirndls come in various colors and styles, often with floral or checkered patterns.

Kaftans are worn by men and women in many parts of the Middle East, North Africa, and Central Asia.
Kaftans are usually made of silk, cotton, wool, or linen and feature rich colors and embroidery.
Kaftans can be worn for religious ceremonies, cultural events, or everyday wear.
Kaftans are also popular among celebrities and fashion lovers who wear them as beach cover-ups or glamorous dresses.

Mix and match ethnic pieces with modern or minimalist ones.
Wear a bright and patterned ethnic skirt with a plain white shirt, or a simple black dress with a colorful ethnic scarf or jacket.
This way, you can balance the contrast between the two styles and create a harmonious outfit.

Accessorize with ethnic jewelry, bags, shoes, or hats.
These can add some flair and interest to your outfit, without being too overwhelming.
Choose accessories that match the color scheme or theme of your outfit, or ones that contrast with it for a more striking effect.
Also mix different types of ethnic accessories, such as African beads, Indian bangles, or Mexican embroidery.

Experiment with different ethnic prints, fabrics, and textures.
Find ethnic style clothing in various materials, such as silk, cotton, wool, linen, or leather.
You can also find different patterns, such as floral, geometric, paisley, or tribal.
Mix and match these elements to create a diverse and dynamic look.
For example, wear a floral ethnic blouse with a geometric ethnic skirt, or a leather ethnic jacket with a silk ethnic dress.

Be inspired by different ethnic cultures and traditions.
Learn more about the history and meaning behind different ethnic styles, and use them as a source of inspiration for your own outfits.
You can also incorporate elements from your own heritage or background, or from cultures that you admire or relate to.
For example, wear a traditional saree from India, a djellaba from Morocco, or a Chinese jacket, depending on your preference and mood.

Have fun and be creative with your ethnic style.
There are no fixed rules or limits when it comes to ethnic style.
Experiment with different combinations and expressions, and find what suits you best.
You can also change your ethnic style according to the season, the occasion, or your mood.
The most important thing is to enjoy yourself and feel comfortable and confident in your own skin.

Salwar kameez: A two-piece outfit consisting of a long tunic (kameez) and loose pants (salwar) that is popular in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and other South Asian countries.
Salwar kameez can be made of various fabrics, colors, and patterns, and can be worn for casual or formal occasions.

Saree: A long piece of fabric that is draped around the body in various ways, creating a graceful and elegant look.
It is worn by women in India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and other countries.
Sarees can be made of silk, cotton, chiffon, or other materials, and can have different designs and embellishments.

Kaftan: A loose-fitting robe or tunic that is worn by both men and women in many parts of Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.
They can be long or short, plain or patterned, and can have different necklines and sleeves.
Kaftans are comfortable and versatile, and can be worn as a dress, a coat, or a nightgown.

Turban: A headwear that is made by wrapping a long piece of cloth around the head.
They are worn by men and women in many cultures, especially in India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran, and other countries.
Turbans can symbolize religious identity, social status, or fashion sense.
They can be plain or colorful, simple or elaborate.

Embroidery: A decorative technique that involves stitching patterns or designs on fabric using threads or yarns.
It is used to enhance the beauty and uniqueness of ethnic style clothing.
Embroidery can be done by hand or machine, and can feature floral, geometric, animal, or other motifs.
It can also be used to make accessories such as bags, belts, scarves, or jewelry.

Mix and match different ethnic elements.
You can combine different patterns, fabrics, colours, and accessories from various ethnic backgrounds to create a unique and eclectic look.
For example, you can wear a batik blouse with a denim skirt, or a saree with a leather jacket.
The key is to balance the contrast and harmony of the different elements.

Experiment with different silhouettes and cuts.
You can try different styles of ethnic clothing that suit your body type and personality.
For example, you can wear a kaftan dress with a belt to accentuate your waist, or a kurta with palazzo pants for a relaxed and comfortable look.
You can also alter the length, neckline, sleeves, and hemline of your ethnic outfits to create different looks.

Accessorize with ethnic jewellery and shoes.
You can add some sparkle and flair to your ethnic outfits with jewellery and shoes that reflect your culture or the culture you admire.
For example, you can wear a maang tikka with a lehenga, or a pair of hoop earrings with a poncho.
You can also wear ethnic shoes such as juttis, kolhapuris, or mojaris to complete your look.

Update your ethnic style according to the season and occasion.
You can change your ethnic style according to the weather and the event you are attending.
For example, you can wear lighter fabrics and colours in summer, and heavier fabrics and colours in winter.
You can also wear more casual and simple ethnic outfits for everyday wear, and more formal and elaborate ethnic outfits for special occasions.

Be confident and comfortable in your ethnic style.
The most important tip on how to keep your ethnic style updated and fresh is to be confident and comfortable in what you wear.
Your ethnic style should reflect your personality, mood, and taste.
You should also feel good in your ethnic outfits, as they are a way of expressing yourself and celebrating your culture.

Do not wear ethnic clothes that are too tight, too revealing, or too flashy.
Ethnic clothes are meant to be comfortable, modest, and elegant.
Wearing clothes that are inappropriate for the occasion or the culture can be disrespectful and offensive.

Do not mix and match ethnic prints and patterns without a sense of harmony.
Ethnic prints and patterns can be very beautiful and vibrant, but they can also clash if they are not coordinated well.
Try to stick to one or two ethnic prints or patterns per outfit, and balance them with solid colors or neutral tones.

Do not accessorize excessively or inappropriately.
Ethnic accessories can add a touch of flair and personality to your outfit, but they can also overwhelm it if you wear too many or too large ones.
Choose accessories that complement your outfit and your features, and avoid wearing anything that is culturally insensitive or offensive.

Do not copy ethnic styles without understanding their meaning and context.
Ethnic styles are not just fashion trends, they are expressions of history, culture, and identity.
Wearing ethnic styles without knowing their significance or origin can be seen as ignorant or disrespectful.
Do some research before you wear ethnic styles, and appreciate their beauty and diversity.

Trade and migration: The exchange of goods and people across borders and continents has facilitated the diffusion of styles and techniques from one culture to another.
For example, silk and cashmere fabrics were originally imported from Asia and later became integrated into Western fashion.
Similarly, the cashmere shawl, which originated in Kashmir, India, was popularized in Europe and America in the 19th century.

Colonialism and imperialism: The expansion of European powers into other parts of the world resulted in the appropriation and adaptation of local styles and materials by the colonizers and the colonized.
For example, the British Raj in India influenced the development of Indian ethnic wear, such as the sari, the salwar kameez, and the kurta.
On the other hand, some Indian nationalists adopted Western clothing as a symbol of modernity and resistance.

Nationalism and identity: The formation of nation-states and the emergence of ethnic and cultural movements have stimulated the revival and reinvention of traditional and folk styles.
For example, in the post-independence period of India, designers such as Ritu Kumar and Ritu Beri experimented with new styles and cuts, while retaining the essence of traditional designs.
Similarly, in South Africa, designers such as Marianne Fassler and Stoned Cherrie have incorporated elements of African heritage and history into their collections.

Globalization and hybridization: The increasing interconnectedness and interdependence of the world has fostered the creation and consumption of diverse and eclectic styles that combine elements from different cultures and regions.
For example, designers such as Christian Lacroix, Dries van Noten, John Galliano, Kenzo, Vivienne Tam, Yeohlee and many others have taken their inspiration from a variety of Asian, African, Arctic, Native American and several other dress forms and aesthetic styles and created colorful, syncretic styles evocative of the past or faraway lands.
These styles are often influenced by the personal experiences and travels of the designers, as well as by the media, art, and popular culture.

Music: Ethnic style can be expressed through listening to or playing music that originates from a specific region or culture, such as flamenco, reggae, salsa, Bollywood, Celtic, or African drumming.
Ethnic style can also be shown through wearing clothing or accessories that reflect the musical genre, such as colorful dresses, hats, scarves, or jewelry.

Art: Ethnic style can be displayed through creating or collecting art that showcases the aesthetic, symbolism, or techniques of a certain culture or region, such as Native American pottery, Chinese calligraphy, Indian mandalas, Moroccan tiles, or Japanese origami.
Ethnic style can also be demonstrated through decorating one's home or workspace with art pieces that reflect one's cultural background or interests.

Hobbies: Ethnic style can be practiced through engaging in hobbies that are related to a specific culture or region, such as cooking, dancing, yoga, martial arts, gardening, or traveling.
Ethnic style can also be enhanced through using or wearing items that are characteristic of the hobby, such as spices, costumes, mats, weapons, plants, or souvenirs.

The cashmere shawl, originating in Kashmir, India, was imported to Europe by the East India Company in the 18th century. This shawl became a popular fashion accessory among European and American women in the 19th century, inspiring many imitations and variations in design and material.

The kimono, a traditional Japanese garment consisting of a long robe with wide sleeves and a sash. Worn by both men and women in Japan for centuries, the kimono has influenced Western fashion, especially in the early 20th century, when designers like Paul Poiret and Madeleine Vionnet incorporated kimono elements into their creations.

The zoot suit, a style of men's suit featuring a long jacket with wide shoulders and baggy pants tapering at the ankles. Popular among African American, Latino, and Filipino American youths in the 1930s and 1940s, particularly in urban areas like Harlem, Los Angeles, and Chicago, the zoot suit symbolized rebellion, identity, and style, often worn with accessories such as hats, chains, and shoes.

The sari, a long piece of fabric draped around the body in various ways, is one of the most common forms of ethnic wear for women in India, worn for thousands of years. Made of materials like cotton, silk, or synthetic fabrics, saris come in different patterns, colors, and embellishments and can be paired with various types of blouses and petticoats.

The bohemian look, a style that mixes elements of different ethnic and folk traditions, including embroidery, patchwork, prints, beads, fringes, and layers. Emerging in the 1960s and 1970s as a counter-cultural movement rejecting mainstream fashion and embracing individuality, freedom, and creativity, the bohemian look was revived in the 1990s and 2000s by designers like Dries van Noten, Matthew Williamson, Marni, and Fendi.

Readymade sarees: Sarees are evergreen and every Indian girl's first love.
But they can be tricky to drape and wear, especially for beginners.
That's why readymade sarees are a great option for those who want to enjoy the elegance and grace of a saree without the hassle.
Readymade sarees are pre-stitched and come with a blouse and a petticoat.
They can be worn like a skirt or a dress, with a zipper or a hook at the side.

Co-ords: Co-ords are the favorite choice amongst all ages in 2023.
They are matching sets of tops and bottoms, such as crop tops and skirts, kurtas and pants, or jackets and palazzos.
Co-ords are versatile and can be mixed and matched with other pieces to create different looks.
They are also easy to style and accessorize, as they create a cohesive and harmonious outfit.

Tunic: Tunics are usually loose-fitting and knee-length kurta/kurti.
They can be worn with leggings, jeans, or pants for a casual or formal look.
Tunics are comfortable and flattering for all body types.
They come in various fabrics, colors, prints, and designs.
Some of the popular tunic styles are asymmetrical, high-low, slit, or layered.

Pant suits: Pant suits are a chic and sophisticated way to rock the ethnic style.
They consist of a tailored jacket and trousers in the same or contrasting colors.
Pant suits can be worn with a shirt, a blouse, or a crop top underneath.
They can also be embellished with embroidery, sequins, or beads for a festive touch.

Palazzo/pants with kurtis: Palazzo/pants with kurtis are a trendy and comfortable combination that can be worn for any occasion.
Palazzo/pants are wide-legged trousers that flow with every movement.
Kurtis are short or long tops that can be fitted or loose.
They can be paired with different types of palazzo/pants, such as solid, printed, pleated, or flared.

Crop-top with sharara: Crop-top with sharara is a modern and glamorous twist on the traditional lehenga-choli.
Crop-top is a short top that exposes the midriff.
Sharara is a pair of loose pants that are fitted at the waist and flare out at the bottom.
They can be adorned with embroidery, lace, or mirror work for a festive look.

Kaftan kurtis: Kaftan kurtis are inspired by the Middle Eastern garment that is worn as a robe or a dress.
Kaftan kurtis are long and loose-fitting tops that have wide sleeves and a V-neckline.
They can be worn with leggings, jeans, or pants for a casual or formal look.
Kaftan kurtis are ideal for summer, as they are breezy and comfortable.

Dhoti pants and kurta: Dhoti pants and kurta is a fusion of the traditional Indian attire and the western style.
Dhoti pants are trousers that have pleats at the front and back, creating a draped effect.
Kurta is a long shirt that can be plain or printed.
They can be worn together for a stylish and ethnic look.

Mixing and matching ethnic elements from different cultures: Ethnic style is not limited to one culture or region, but can be a creative fusion of various influences.
For example, one can wear a saree with a denim jacket, or a kaftan with jeans, or a kimono with a skirt.
Mixing and matching ethnic elements can create a unique and eclectic look that reflects one's personality and preferences.

Using sustainable and organic materials: Ethnic style can also be a way of promoting environmental and social awareness, by using materials that are eco-friendly, organic and ethically sourced.
For example, one can opt for fabrics made from natural fibers like cotton, linen, silk, wool or hemp, or use dyes that are derived from plants, flowers or minerals.
Using sustainable and organic materials can reduce the environmental impact of fashion and support the local artisans and communities that produce them.

Incorporating modern and futuristic elements: Ethnic style can also be a way of experimenting with new and innovative designs, by incorporating modern and futuristic elements.
For example, one can use digital prints, holographic effects, metallic accents, neon colors or LED lights to add some flair and fun to ethnic outfits.
Incorporating modern and futuristic elements can make ethnic style more contemporary and relevant to the changing times and tastes.

Rihanna, who is known for her eclectic and daring fashion choices that often incorporate elements from her Caribbean heritage, such as bright colors, tropical prints, and reggae music.
She has also launched her own fashion and beauty brands, Fenty and Fenty Beauty, which celebrate diversity and inclusivity by offering products for different skin tones and body types.

Lupita Nyong'o, who is an Oscar-winning actress and activist who embraces her Kenyan roots and showcases African-inspired fashion on the red carpet and in magazines.
She often wears vibrant fabrics, patterns, and accessories from various African cultures, such as Ankara, Kente, Maasai beads, and head wraps.
Lupita also advocates for the representation and empowerment of women of color in the media and entertainment industry.

Riz Ahmed, who is a British actor, rapper, and activist who uses his platform to raise awareness about the issues faced by Muslims and people of South Asian descent in the UK and beyond.
Riz often incorporates elements of his Pakistani heritage and Islamic faith into his style, such as wearing traditional clothing like shalwar kameez, kurta, and sherwani, or sporting a beard and a cap.
She also challenges the stereotypes and prejudices that are often associated with his identity through his music and films.

Yalitza Aparicio, who is a Mexican actress and human rights advocate who made history by becoming the first Indigenous woman to be nominated for an Academy Award for her role in Roma.
She proudly represents her Mixtec and Triqui origins by wearing clothing and accessories that reflect her culture, such as embroidered blouses, skirts, and shawls, or colorful jewelry and flowers.
Yalitza also uses her voice to speak out against racism, sexism, and violence against Indigenous women in Mexico and Latin America.

Taika Waititi, who is a New Zealand filmmaker, actor, and comedian who is known for his quirky and humorous style that often references his Maori and Jewish heritage.
She frequently wears clothing and accessories that feature Maori symbols, motifs, and designs, such as tattoos, pendants, cloaks, and feathers.
Taika also incorporates elements of his culture into his films, such as using Maori language, music, and legends.
She also advocates for the rights and recognition of Indigenous peoples in the film industry.