Indian attire has long been celebrated for its elegance, versatility, and rich cultural significance. From sarees to salwar suits, lehengas to kurtis, Indian outfits offer a wide range of options for every occasion.
However, finding the perfect fit for Indian attire can sometimes be a challenge, especially when considering the diverse body types and unique designs that are part of the tradition. Proper sizing and fitting are crucial not only for comfort but also for enhancing the overall appearance of the outfit.
At Kashana, we understand the importance of getting the fit just right, and we’re here to guide you through essential tips for sizing and fitting Indian attire to help you look and feel your best.
- Understanding Indian Attire Measurements
Indian outfits often have a different sizing and fitting system compared to Western clothing. Whether you’re buying ready-made attire or getting something custom-tailored, it’s important to understand key measurements that will help ensure the perfect fit.
1.1 Bust, Waist, and Hip Measurements
The three most crucial measurements for any Indian attire are the bust, waist, and hip measurements. These are essential for ensuring the right fit for garments such as saree blouses, lehengas, kurtis, and salwar suits.
- Bust Measurement: Measure around the fullest part of your bust, keeping the tape measure straight and snug but not too tight.
- Waist Measurement: Measure around the smallest part of your waist, which is typically just above the belly button.
- Hip Measurement: Measure around the widest part of your hips, ensuring the tape is level and not too loose.
Tip: For saree blouses and fitted kurtis, accurate bust and waist measurements are key to achieving a snug and flattering fit.
1.2 Length Measurements
Length measurements vary depending on the type of attire you’re wearing. For instance, the length of a kurti, lehenga, or salwar kameez will differ based on personal preference and style.
- Kurti Length: Measure from the shoulder down to the desired length, whether it’s knee-length, calf-length, or longer.
- Lehenga Length: Measure from the waist down to the floor, making sure to account for the height of your footwear.
- Salwar Length: Measure from your waist or hip (depending on where you prefer the waistband) down to your ankle.
Tip: When measuring for length, always wear the footwear you plan to pair with the outfit to ensure accurate results.
- The Importance of Custom Tailoring
While ready-made Indian outfits are convenient, they may not always provide the perfect fit. Custom tailoring ensures that your outfit is specifically made to fit your unique body shape and measurements. Investing in tailoring services can help you achieve a more polished and flattering look.
2.1 Alterations for Ready-Made Attire
If you purchase ready-made outfits, minor alterations can make a significant difference in the overall fit. Common adjustments include taking in the bust or waist, shortening the hem, or adjusting sleeve lengths.
Tip: When shopping for ready-made attire, always choose a size that fits the largest part of your body (e.g., hips or bust) and get the rest of the garment tailored to fit the smaller areas.
2.2 Customizing for Personal Preferences
Tailoring allows you to customize your outfit to your personal preferences. You can adjust the neckline, sleeve length, and fit to suit your style and comfort level. For example, you can opt for a deep back design on a saree blouse or have a salwar kameez and cotton kurtis tailored with extra room for ease of movement.
Tip: Don’t be afraid to communicate your preferences to the tailor. Whether you prefer a more fitted or relaxed look, proper tailoring can accommodate your needs while maintaining the integrity of the outfit.
- Fitting Tips for Specific Indian Attire
Each type of Indian attire has its own unique fitting challenges. Below are some tips for achieving the best fit for different styles of Indian clothing.
3.1 Saree Blouses
Saree blouses are one of the most critical elements of a saree ensemble. A well-fitted blouse enhances the drape of the saree and adds to the overall elegance of the outfit.
- Neckline Fit: Ensure that the neckline of the blouse is comfortable and doesn’t dig into your skin. The back neckline should be high enough to offer support but not so high that it feels restrictive.
- Sleeve Fit: Sleeves should fit snugly around your arms without being too tight. Opt for sleeve lengths that complement your arm shape and the occasion—elbow-length sleeves are flattering for most body types.
Tip: Always carry a comfortable bra when getting a blouse stitched, as the right undergarments can greatly affect the final fit.
3.2 Lehengas
Lehengas are typically worn for formal occasions and need to fit just right to make a statement. The fit of the lehenga skirt is crucial, as it determines how well the outfit flows and flatters your body.
- Waistband Fit: The waistband of the lehenga should sit comfortably at your natural waist or slightly lower, depending on your preference. Ensure that the waistband is snug enough to stay in place without digging into your skin.
- Volume and Length: If your lehenga is flared, ensure that the volume of the fabric complements your body type. Petite women may want to avoid overly voluminous lehengas, while taller women can carry off more dramatic flares.
Tip: When choosing the length, remember that the lehenga should just skim the floor when you’re wearing heels, allowing for easy movement without tripping.
3.3 Salwar Suits
Salwar suits come in many different styles, from straight-cut to Anarkali, and the fit of each type varies.
- Kurta Fit: The kurta should fit well around the bust and shoulders, with enough room in the waist and hips to ensure comfort. For a sleek look, opt for a slightly tapered fit at the waist.
- Salwar/Pants Fit: The fit of the salwar or pants depends on the style. Patiala salwars should be loose and voluminous, while straight-cut pants should fit snugly around the waist and hips, tapering slightly down the leg.
Tip: Always try on the salwar suit with the undergarments you plan to wear, as this can affect the overall fit.
- Understanding Sizing Variations Between Brands
Indian attire sizing can vary significantly between brands, especially when it comes to ready-made outfits. While some brands may offer standardized sizing, others may have their own unique size charts.
4.1 Always Check the Size Chart
Before purchasing Indian attire online or in-store, always refer to the brand’s size chart. Take your measurements carefully and compare them to the chart to ensure the best fit.
Tip: If you’re between sizes, it’s generally better to size up and have the outfit tailored to fit you perfectly.
4.2 Don’t Rely Solely on Standard Sizes
While standard sizes like small, medium, and large are common, they don’t account for different body proportions. Whenever possible, opt for custom sizing or alterations to achieve a more precise fit.
Conclusion
The perfect fit is key to feeling confident and comfortable in Indian attire, and paying attention to sizing and tailoring details can make all the difference. Whether you’re wearing a saree, lehenga, or salwar suit, the right fit enhances the beauty of the outfit and allows you to move with ease. At Kashana, we believe that every woman deserves to look and feel her best in traditional Indian wear, and our expert tips will help you achieve the perfect fit for any occasion. From accurate measurements to custom tailoring, these insights will guide you in selecting and fitting your Indian attire to perfection.
