Dude, they borrowed our bindi

SHAGUN GANDHI takes a look at Indian fashion offerings that went global

Over the centuries, the Indian fashion industry has contributed greatly to the global fashion world both in terms of adding to its economy as well as giving it ensembles that have been worn by generations. Our designers have come a long way bringing India to the world by reinventing, rebranding, redesigning and by embracing the east meets west approach. After continuous efforts, Indian fashion has come to the world’s notice, gradually becoming popular globally. As fashion designer Anita Dongre had put it, “The Indian diaspora has influenced worldwide fashion, making borders just a little bit thinner in the world of fashion.”

As India celebrates 71 years of Independence, here’s a look at all that the Indian fashion industry has contributed to global fashion.

Sari

The sari is one of the most wonderful garments worn by Indian women. Apart from highlighting the characteristic image of an Indian woman, the sari also adds grace to a woman’s personality. Worn in more ways than one, the traditional Indian six yards is loved the same way abroad. People from across the world are surprised by the sheer variety of saris and the ways in which one can drape a sari. In fact, designers have come up with different concepts of saris to make it more appealing globally.

Jutti

Inherently Punjabi and typically Indian, the jutti, also known as mojari and nagra, is traditional footwear worn mostly in North India. Made out of pure leather, they are decorated with embroidery and embellishments that give it a unique appeal. Indian juttis are loved by all and have become bespoke and trendy. The embellished lehenga choli of the north Indian culture is nothing without beautiful ethnic shoes. Indian shoe designers give the jutti an ethnic and modern twist to make it more wearable.

Bindi

The vermilion, traditionally used exclusively for bindis, is called sindura or sindoor. This red powder represents Shakti (strength). It also symbolises love. Also, from Vedic times, the bindi was created as a means to worship one's intellect. No Indian attire is complete without a bindi. Over the years it has turned into a fashion statement inspiring the west to wear it and flaunt it in all its glory. It is also loved globally and sported by many international celebrities.

Nose ring

The nose ring continues to evolve in stunning ways. Though nose piercing didn’t originate in India, it was brought to the country in the 16th century from the Middle East by the Moghuls. In India a stud called phul or a ring known as nath is usually worn in the left nostril. It is sometimes joined to the ear by a chain, and in some places both nostrils are pierced. There are different types of nose rings like pullakku, laung, guchhedar nath, nathur, etc. Nose rings are uber cool and are all the rage in India and internationally.

Nehru jacket

Named after our first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, the Nehru jacket became synonymous with Indian fashion after it became popular as the top half of a suit worn on formal occasions. Initially the jacket was actually a short shirt worn over a longer kurta only worn by men. The basic structure of the Nehru jacket has remained the same throughout time. The straight cut fit is buttoned in the centre and has a mandarin collar – a style that lends a formal yet elegant look. In earlier years, the jacket was only made out of khadi. Now it is made out of fabrics like, linen, cotton, tussar silk as well as velvet.

Lehenga

The Indian lehenga has impressed audiences the world over. Exceptional craftsmanship, bright colours and intricate embroideries with a modern touch attracts buyers all over the globe. Paired with blouses inspired by western silhouettes, capes, crop tops, jackets, etc. the lehenga serves the taste of global audiences while still remaining a significant part of the Indian fashion industry, particularly during the wedding season.