Popular Types of Shalwar Kameez: A Complete Style Guide

The loose style bottoms and mid length shirt with open sides, made of lightweight breathy fabric is the traditional dress of many Muslim countries including Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran, Turkey, India and other south Asian countries.

Regardless of gender, this traditional attire; it’s a timeless expression of cultural heritage blended with modern fashion. With numerous styles available, let’s dive into the world of Shalwar Kameez and explore the different variations that make it a top-rated fashion staple.

What is Shalwar Kameez?

The traditional outfit consists of two main pieces: a tunic-style top (kameez) and loose-fitting or fitted trousers (shalwar). By now I believe everyone on this planet must have seen it once. Salwar kameez is a super comfortable dress to wear in extreme conditions since they are made from excellent quality cotton, lawn and linen. They are best especially for the hot humid climate in the South of Pakistan. 

Even though it's been worn since centuries , there are constant changes, tweaks and additions to beautify the clothes. Apart from the casual wear, shalwar kameez has an extensive range of formal and even bridal wear, that comes with heavy embellishments, embroidery and gota work. These are found in fabrics like silk, chiffon, maysuri and khaddar etc. 

Popular Styles of Shalwar Kameez

Now lets see what variety of options we have here and that are in fashion as well

1. The Most Trending One (farshi shalwar)

If you are using social media these days, then you must have heard or better seen the trending farshi shalwar that has taken the desi internet by storm. The name is derived from the persian/Arabic word “farsh” that means “floor”. Basically this shalwar touches the floor while you walk (just like farshi gharara). 

It has originated from Baluchistan, where women pair them up with heavy mirror embroidery work frocks. This Eid. where more than half the desi population is going to wear farshi shalwar, you might or might not want to go with the trend. Choice is yours. 

2. The Basic One (straight cut shalwar with simple kameez)

The most comfortable clothes one can find for casual or even formal wear. It doesn't get too tight and stuffy like the jeans, nor too flowy and unmanageable like gharara. Perfect for wearing at home and at work, in plain, printed and embroidered.

Also no other shalwar has managed to be this much popular ever. Since it's the national dress of Pakistan and other countries, every single clothing brand will have this in a variety of fabrics and styles. 

3. The Pleated One (patiala shalwar with short kameez) 

Patiala is a city in Punjab which is known for its heritage, history and traditional Punjabi culture. This shalwar is mostly made from silk or georgette, it is pleated from the front, giving it a baggy look. Its paired up with short kameez that comes only till hip,

4. The Wide Legged (palazzo shalwar and Kameez) 

A perfect combination of traditional fusion with a modern touch. It's perfect for those who want to stay comfortable yet look stylish. This type of shalwar kameez features wide leg flowing trousers, perfect for casual wear and family get to gathers. You can pair it with minimal jewelry and heels to complete the traditional charm effortlessly.

5. The Royal One (straight fitted shalwar with short frock)

This type of shalwar kameez is best known for its royal aesthetics as it's all about grace and poise. A perfect pick for formal wear as it gives a luxurious appeal as it gives a balanced graceful movement. A short frock-style kameez with a straight-fitted shalwar creates a well-defined yet graceful drape, exuding effortless charm.

6. The Classic One (churidar shalwar/pajama with shirt)

A perfect pair of shalwar kameez that defines elegance and yet a great choice for a traditional outfit. Churidar, a fitted shalwar that gathers at the ankles, creates a sleek and elegant look, while the kameez can be customized as per your preferred length. It goes well on festive occasions with a pair of classic jhumkas and dupatta. 

7. Angrakha Shirt With Straight Cut Shalwar 

Inspired from Mughal times, Angrakha has an overlapping front panel fastened with fabric strings or tassels. This traditional piece adds a regal touch and hence is an absolute must-have for party wear. Wear it with a straight-cut or churidar shalwar for an elegant and carefree appearance. The free-flowing nature of the Angrakha kameez brings elegance and ease of movement and is therefore suitable for parties and traditional ceremonies.

 8. Tulip Shalwar Kameez With Short Shirt/Frock

For a stylish and modern look, Tulip Shalwar Kameez is a great option. The tulip shalwar features a distinct overlapping style with the looks of a tulip flower's petals, presenting it with a stylish and modern look. The design is perfectly complemented by short or mid-length kameez or frock and best for semi-formal events and celebrations. Tulip shalwar provides a stylish look without compromising the classic dress's elegance and is a must-have for all fashion enthusiasts.

9. A-Line Kameez With Straight Trouser 

Amongst the most complimenting designs is the A-line design, featuring a fitted top that tapers down towards the hem paired with Straight Trouser. .This is one of those styles which will suit all figures and can be dressed up or down based on the event. To appear trendy, choose a Luxury Pret range with beautiful embroidery and quality material. The versatility of this style allows it to be utilized for an unofficial event and an official event, based on the material and ornaments used.

10. Dhoti Style Shalwar With Short Kameez

A fusion of trend and tradition, the Dhoti look features an innovative draped shalwar that resembles a dhoti. A trendy and chic outfit that's a complete showstopper, it may also be paired with asymmetrical or short kameez prints. It's a transparent necessity for women who'd like to try something innovative in their wardrobe. The Dhoti Shalwar presents traditional dressing with a chic touch, so it's ideal for wedding ceremonies, parties, and even modern wedding ceremonies

11. Koti Style Kurta Set 

Where elegance needs to be blended with tradition, Koti Style kurta set stands a winner. Beautifully embroidered or plain Koti paired over a basic or an embellished kurta becomes the epitome of stylish nonchalant apparel fit for elegant as well as party wear functions. The jacket could be either floor-length, shortened, or cape-like so that you are free to experiment with your dress sense but continue to boast an elegant traditional effect.

12. Front Slit Long Frock/ Long Shirt with Cigarette Pants

The trendy front slit version of the traditional Long shirt or long frock is all drama and poise. It is draped over sharara, churidar, or cigarette pants to look stylish yet chic. It is a must-visit for women who want a solid but stylish look. With the front slit, the wearer gains an extra height, thus she is taller and more comfortable.

Explore the range of Luxury Pret at Chic Ophicial and get yourself styled in the perfect look!

How to Pick the Perfect Shalwar Kameez

The selection of the perfect Shalwar Kameez relies on a variety of parameters including occasion, fabric, and fitting.

• Everyday Wear: Choose light fabrics such as lawn or cotton with little or plain embroidery to be worn every day.
  

• Formal Wear: Select top-quality material such as silk, chiffon, or velvet and adorn them heavily with plenty of sparklers to make a sophisticated cut.
  

• Festive Wear: Select those heavy embroidered, sequined, or heavily embellished ones to go glamorous.
  

• Modern Look: Try asymmetrical cuts, statement prints, or fusion trends such as the Dhoti shalwar for a fashionable and modern look.

Look through Chic Ophicial newest Women, Men, and Kids collections for fashionable ideas.

Accessorizing Shalwar Kameez

No clothing is complete without the best accessories. This is how you give your Shalwar Kameez look an added boost:

• Footwear: Attires traditionally go well with khussas or juttis, but newer designs go amazingly well with heels or trendy sandals.
  

• Jewelry: Jhumkas, chandbalis, or multiple layered necklaces give an ethnic touch and heighten the entire look.
  

• Dupatta Styles: Experiment with varied draping methods—side drape for an informal look or a pleated shoulder style for formal occasions.
  

• Bags: Potli bags or embroidered clutches make great festival clothing pairs.

Browse through our Accessories range for the ideal additions to your look.

Styling Advice for Shalwar Kameez

• For the conventional style, select long kameez with churidar or straight pants.

• For a contemporary look, choose asymmetrical styles or jacket-style kameez.

• Adding a dupatta stylishly can infuse character in any ensemble.

• For wedding and ceremonial use, spend money on high-quality fabrics with hand-embroidered details.

• Pair heavy decorations with understated accessories to prevent an overdone look.

• For an eternal regal look, try a fashionable Farshi Shalwar adorned with fine embellishments and hand-stitched detailing.

• Try colour blocking and dramatic contrasts to come up with a lively yet refined outfit.
  

  Read more: Shalwar Kameez Vs Kurta Pajama: Which One Is Better?

Conclusion

The Shalwar Kameez is an elegant and ageless garment which appeals to all style tastes, from the classic grace to the latest fashion. Whether the Farshi Shalwar with its regal background, the Straight-Cut for the traditional touch, or the Front Slit for the stylish modern appearance, all designs are spellbinding. With so many designs, fabrications, and ornamentations to work with, the garment can be created as per any event. With the perfect accessories, shoes, and styling pieces, it can be made to look even more beautiful. Shalwar Kameez for all occasions and seasons is something that every woman must have in her wardrobe that guarantees comfort, sophistication, and endless fashion liberty.