Lehenga vs Salwar Kameez: How to Choose the Right Outfit for Any Occasion

Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam is far more than just a phrase. It not only applies to Indian values and teachings but also resonates into the world of fashion.

Indian ethnic fashion is a super blend of various types of outfits that incorporate a plethora of fabrics, hues, embellishments, silhouettes and styles. Indo-Western outfits are ruling the fashion world but the amusing fact is that despite all the modernization, outfits like Indian ‘lehengas’ and ‘salwar kameez’ dazzle on the fashion scene unaffected.

These are two of the most iconic outfits that have swooned the Indian fashion world for ages and are all set to hold the stage for decades to come. They both have their individual charm, convey specific vibe, as they are worn for different occasions and events. Are you wondering about what exactly are these outfits like?

Let us address the excitement of understanding these Indian ethnic attires by comparing them to grasp the exact differences. Let’s start understanding; a lehenga and a salwar kameez.

What is a Lehenga?

This is a traditional Indian outfit with a flowing skirt worn with a blouse (choli) and dupatta. 

What is lehenga’s look like?

A lehenga is typically a voluminous skirt while the blouse (choli) can vary in length and the dupatta can differ in terms of work and embellishment on it. Dupatta is usually draped around the shoulders in different styles.

What is lehenga’s origin?

Lehenga has its roots in the Mughal era, where it was worn by the royalty and aristocrats. Over time it has evolved to being the go-to outfit for weddings and festivals.

What is lehenga’s best suited occasion?

Weddings, engagements, and festivals are the hot occasions for donning a lehenga. An Indian bride often chooses to wear a lehenga. Embellishments on the lehenga and its dupatta vary as per the occasion. Like a bride wears a very heavy lehenga, compared to others.

What are lehenga’s top jewelry tips?

Heavier the lehenga heavy the jewelry needs to be. Jhumkas, choker, long neckpiece, maang-tikka, kamarbandh and statement bangles complete the look. Ensure you match the color and style of jewelry with the work on your outfit.

What are lehenga’s top accessorizing tips?

Ornate clutch, embellished footwear will go well with a heavy lehenga. A simple lehenga will look cool with juttis too. Let your makeup blend well with the event’s time and dress color.

What is a Salwar Kameez?

Versatility and comfort are guaranteed with a salwar kameez. It is made up of salwar, which is a loose fitting trouser and kameez which is a long tunic worn with a dupatta. This outfit is a staple for semi-formal and casual occasions.

What is a salwar kameez’s look like?

It creates a relaxed silhouette with kameez varying in length and design. Salwar also offers a variety in the form of a loose fit style pajama, and a churidar which is relatively structured.

What is a salwar kameez’s origin?

Northen states of Punjab and Haryana are credited with the origin of this outfit. Over time it has undergone a huge amount of modernization and holds its ground as the most preferred Indian outfit for women.

What is a salwar kameez’s best suited occasion?

It is a go-to for everyday elegance. Be it pre-wedding, office wear, semi-formal occasion, party, or a casual occasion, this attire fits the bill every time (pun intended 😉).

What are salwar kameez’s top jewelry tips?

Light jewelry, simple earrings, hoops, studs and delicate bracelet creates a chic look.

What are salwar kameez’s top accessorizing tips?

Simple sandals, flats, mojarris and even wedges look cool. Take the dupatta on one shoulder for non-formal occasions.

What are Key Noticeable Differences in Lehenga vs Salwar Kameez?

STRUCTURE SILHOUETTE — Lehenga vs Salwar Kameez 

• Lehenga: Fitted blouse, voluminous and flared skirt creating a grand and royal look.

• Salwar Kameez: Chosen for more of a relaxed and comfortable look. Silhouette can be comfortable and loose or tight fitting as per the customization chosen.

FABRIC LOVE — Lehenga vs Salwar Kameez 

• Lehenga: Often made with rich fabrics like, silk, jacquard, velve,t and brocade.

• Salwar Kameez: Commonly crafted from breathable fabrics like cotton, georgette and chiffon.

WORK WONDER — Lehenga vs Salwar Kameez 

• Lehenga: Intricate embroidery, zardozi work, mirror work and sequins make it a heavy dazzling statement piece.

• Salwar Kameez: Can be adorned with work, but often found with prints, and cool colors to make it an everyday outfit.

COMFORT CARE — Lehenga vs Salwar Kameez 

• Lehenga: It is visually stunning; fabric is royal with stunning work or embellishments. It tends to be less comfortable if worn for long hours. 

• Salwar Kameez: Extended hours of wearing this comes easy and keeps you comfortable. 

Conclusion:

With multiple factors mentioned above, the selection process for a lehenga and salwar kameez is bound to be easy and well informed. The basic thumb rule you can follow is two-fold. One; check how heavy the outfit looks as per the closeness of your association with the host or event’s importance. Like, for your best friend’s wedding you should always go for a heavy outfit, and so the lehenga will be the best choice for you.

Then comes into the picture the second rule; wear what makes you feel confident and comfortable. Fashion is all about how your wish to dress yourself. Trends and fads are here to guide us but they do not necessarily have to be imposing upon you any discomfort of fashion.

Wear what makes you feel good and to take a look at some outfits that you will be thrilled to explore, check out our collection of Cbazaar here. This collection is designed to make you look gorgeous with the facility of ordering from the comfort of your home.