Last weekend we went to a family event. It was the Sanji night (a traditional and cultural event filled with music and dancing) for a couple on my husbands side of the family and they are always so warm and welcoming that I was really excited to go. We had the best evening eating all of the yummy street food, sipping on the cocktails from the Beared Man and dancing the night away to everything from 80’s and 90’s bollywood to bhangra, R&B, hip hop, garage and ending the night on Bohemian Raphsody!
It’s honestly the most fun I’ve had in so long at a family event and I’m still on a high from it. In the lead up to it I was deciding what to wear. It’s always my favourite part of an event.
And so, in this month’s style story I wanted to share some of my reflections around my love for traditional dress and how this has evolved and changed over time.
That Feeling
It’s like no other feeling. Finding out you’ve been invited to a wedding and getting to plan your desi outfits. It’s always been my favourite part of cultural functions. And this time felt extra special as we rarely have any events to go to anymore.
I picked up this Chanya Choli from a market in Ahmedabad on our trip to India last year and I’ve been so excited to wear it. In typical Indian Market style the blouse had been sewn awkwardly and the zip was broken. But that didn’t stop the show going on. I eagerly had the blouse altered to fit better and worked with the naru (or tie) of the skirt to ensure it fit correctly at the waist. I then headed to my parents house to raid our collection of costume jewellery that would bring the outfit to life.
From the right colour and shape of chandlo/bindi to the perfect earrings, necklace and bangles. The accessories are always what make the look. And nothing beats that feeling of being kitted out head to toe!
I had been toying with adding a western top as a blouse instead but opted for the full traditional look. Last minute I decided to switch out the chundri/chunni/dupata for another one my Mother in Law had picked up from the market in a contrasting blue colour. It gave the outfit something else and I felt so confident in the whole look. That feeling is honestly priceless and just goes to show the power of our visual identity.
When I’m wearing traditional pieces I just feel really beautiful. I can’t quite explain it. But the elegance, the tradition, maybe the fact that I don’t get an opportunity to wear them often, always makes it more special.
But there is such an elegance to the traditional pieces. The fit of the top, the elegant sway of the skirt, the details in the embroidery, pattern and embellishment. And of course the pops of colour which will always be one of my favourite parts of eastern fashion.
It helps you to be seen and visible. Looking around the room there were an array of colours and you could just feel the sheer joy radiating from all of the guests.
Embracing Culture & Heritage
But something I’ve been exploring lately is my relationship with my culture and specifically through my wardrobe. When in eastern settings it’s easy because everyone is usually dressed in traditional pieces. But what about when in western settings? How can we begin to embrace more of our culture through our wardrobes in how we dress?
Growing up I think I rejected a lot of my culture when in eastern settings, not really understanding or appreciating how beautiful it was. But I’ve really come to realise that it’s such a significant part of me, my values and what I wish to showcase to the world through my visual identity and personal brand.
And so over the weekend when I was all dressed up I felt like I was the best version of me!
So how can we begin to wear more of our culture proudly. I’m excited to say I’ve been working on a project that explores this in more detail and hope to be able to share more about it soon.
But I would also love to hear from you. How do you acknowledge your culture and heritage through your wardrobe? Is it through colour, adding in prints or maybe an accessory like a piece of jewellery? It will look different to different people but that where the beauty lies in your personal style and the ability to use it as a way to express yourself.
Watch this space as I share more soon and if its something you want to talk about, lets have a chat!
