Introduction
The Lehenga Choli, also known as Lehnga, is a traditional Indian attire that has been a staple in Indian culture for centuries. This three-piece ensemble consists of a lehenga, a long skirt worn by Indian women across the country, a choli, a fitting blouse, and a dupatta, a long piece of fabric used to cover the midriff and head. The lehenga choli is typically worn on ceremonial occasions, festivals, and weddings, and is known for its intricate embroidery, prints, and embellishments.
History
The lehenga choli has a rich history that dates back to the 10th century in North India. The attire evolved significantly during the Mughal era, when royal fabrics and embroideries like silk and brocade were used to create exquisite designs. The lehenga choli became a symbol of royal attire and was worn by Indian women to signify their social status and cultural heritage.
Making
The making of a lehenga choli is a labor-intensive process that involves intricate stitching and hand-woven designs. The process can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the complexity of the design and the fabric used. The lehenga choli is often designed by skilled artisans who specialize in this traditional craft.
Varieties
The lehenga choli has undergone many transformations over the years, with different regions and communities contributing their unique styles and designs. Some popular variations include the Sharara, Gharara, and Lacha, which are lower attires that resemble flared pants. The Sharara has a joint below or at the knee level, while the skirt below spreads out. The Gharara is a Sharara divided into two, with a concentration of work at the knee. The Lacha has a long blouse that almost reaches the knees.
Innovations
The lehenga choli has also incorporated modern influences and global trends. The lehenga style saree is one of the latest Indian ethnic innovations that merge the saree and lehenga silhouette into one. The Anarkali Lehenga is another recent innovation that has given the traditional lehenga a contemporary twist.
Wearing Lehenga
Lehengas are typically worn to special events such as weddings, parties, and festivals. They can be paired with ethnic jewelry like kundan, polka, meenakari, and other traditional accessories. The lehenga choli is suitable for all seasons, with lighter fabrics like silk, georgette, and crepe suitable for summer and heavier fabrics like brocade, velvet, and satin suitable for winter.
Maintenance
Lehengas and ghagra cholis require special care due to the multiple colors, fabrics used, and embellishments on them. They should be dry cleaned to prevent damage to the fabric and embellishments. The outfits should be stored in a dry place wrapped in plastic or a clean white cloth to prevent the metal decorations from tarnishing.
Conclusion
The lehenga choli is a timeless Indian attire that has been a part of Indian culture for centuries. Its rich history, intricate designs, and versatility make it a popular choice for special occasions. With its ability to adapt to modern influences and global trends, the lehenga choli continues to evolve and remain a staple in Indian fashion.
Tips for Maintaining Lehenga Choli
- Wash with care: Wash your lehenga choli with cold water to protect the fabric and prevent fading.
- Spot treat stains: Treat stains immediately to prevent them from setting.
- Steam iron: Use a steam iron to iron your lehenga choli without damaging the fabric.
- Dry clean: Dry clean your lehenga choli to prevent damage to the embellishments and fabric.
- Store with care: Store your lehenga choli in a dry place wrapped in plastic or a clean white cloth to prevent tarnishing of metal decorations.
