Salwar kameez is a staple garment that has been a part of women’s wardrobe for years. This elegant garment comes in various forms. However, we can confidently say that the Patiala salwar kameez is the most popular variant of salwar kameez. The main highlight of the Patiala dress is its salwar. Unlike simple straight or flared pants, it features beautiful pleats. The kurta is also shorter and features short and quarter sleeves. So, if you have been thinking of buying a Patiala salwar suit for yourself, then read along as we discuss its history, best fabrics and trendy designs.
What Is Patiala Salwar Kameez?
A Patiala Salwar Kameez is a traditional Punjabi outfit consisting of a short or mid-length kameez paired with a Patiala-style salwar. The Patiala salwar is known for its many deep pleats created using extra fabric, giving it a loose shape. However, do you know that pleats in the salwar are created by gathering the fabric together? Instead, pressing the fabric flat, which is done in a simple salwar, designers stitch the pleats together around the waist to create that natural flare.
History and Cultural Significance of Patiala Suit
The Patiala suit finds its name from the princely state of Patiala in Punjab during the early 20th century. This was first introduced by the Maharaja of Patiala, Bhupinder Singh, in his court. The style was favoured by royals for its different look and sophistication. Although originally, the Patiala salwar kameez was designed to be a men’s wear.
Yet, its comfort level made it popular amongst women, becoming a part of their identity. It gained more popularity during the 1940s and 1950s when it was adopted as the traditional dress of the Patiala state and then the whole of Punjab. This attire was prominently featured in Bollywood movies, thus elevating its status to a global ethnic wear icon.
Trendy Patiala Suit for Women in Lohri and Baisakhi
Phulkari Patiala Suit
Bright colours look amazing, especially during festivals like Lohri and Baisakhi. The detailed phulkari embroidery brings out the energy of Punjab. While the Patiala salwar keeps things comfortable enough to dance, sit, and move around all day without feeling restricted.
Silk Patiala Suit with Gotta Work
This is such a beautiful combination and works perfectly for a new bride. The silk adds a natural shine, while the gota patti work brings in festive detailing without looking heavy. Just wear some simple gold jewellery with the suit, and you will be the star of the evening.
Short Kurti Patiala Suit
If you prefer something lighter and modern, shorter kurtis are an easy pick. They draw attention to the classic Patiala pleats and keep the overall look youthful and practical. This style is comfortable for daytime events and suits outdoor festival celebrations perfectly.
Contrast Dupatta Patiala Suit
Sometimes a small change makes the biggest impact. Adding a contrast dupatta instantly lifts a simple Patiala suit and makes it festival-ready. It is a great option if you want a vibrant look without going overboard on embroidery or heavy work.
Mirror Work Patiala Suit
The mirror work adds just the right amount of sparkle for those who enjoy a little shine. The beautiful detailing makes the outfit suitable for both daytime festivities and night celebrations without feeling too heavy.
Best Fabrics to Wear Patiala Salwar Kameez
Silk
A Patiala suit looks beautiful when set in a silk fabric. It gives weight to the pleats, making them sharper and more defined. Its ability to hold the shape makes the suit suitable for weddings and traditional occasions.
Cotton
If you are looking for an authentic Patiala suit, then cotton is the best fabric for it. This is one of the popular fabrics that is used to craft those fluffy Patiala salwar. The pleats stay in place while giving a graceful look.
Chiffon
This fabric gives Patiala pleats a soft and lightweight feel. It reduces bulk and makes the outfit look lighter compared to cotton or silk. Chiffon Patiala suits are suitable for daytime events, casual functions, and occasions
Rayon
This fabric feels like butter on the skin. It flows easily and highlights the pleats. Rayon, being a soft fabric, keeps you comfortable even if you wear it all day.
Popular Colours for Patiyala Dress
Red Patiala Dress
When you see a red Patiala dress, it instantly feels festive. The rich red colour flows beautifully through the deep pleats of the Patiala salwar, making the outfit look powerful and traditional. Red looks wonderful with detailed work, so phulkari embroidery or zari accents feel just right. Patiala suits are gorgeous in red because the heavy folds add drama, and red deserves nothing less than that bold, grand presence.
Blue Patiala Dress
A blue Patiala suit offers a balanced and comfortable traditional look. The pleated Patiala salwar works well in blue, especially in cotton and lightweight fabrics that allow easy movement. Simple prints or minimal embroidery suit this colour best. The wide flare of a Patiala salwar helps maintain structure while keeping the outfit relaxed.
Yellow Patiala Dress
Yellow Patiala dresses feel like sunshine and work like magic at anyone’s Haldi function. Yellow has many hues, so you can choose from different colours like lime yellow, mustard, and even dark yellow. The suit looks fantastic with simple embroidery, floral prints, or clean designs.
Orange Patiala Dress
An orange Patiala dress carries warmth and tradition in every fold. The colour settles beautifully into the layered pleats, giving the outfit a strong Punjabi feel. The suitable embroidery for this dress is phulkari embroidery and contrast borders.
Purple Patiala Dress
This colour is a royal colour in itself, thanks to those dark bluish pink hues. A Patiala dress in purple looks like something that offers a fantastic tribute to the royal court of Patiala with its beautiful colour. Just try to choose silk or rayon fabric with Savarvoksi or crystal embroidery to balance the richness of the colour.
Styling Tips for Patiala Salwar Kameez
Patiala salwar kameez have become a staple in every woman’s wardrobe due to their simple look and comfortable feel. However, here are some go-to styling tips that you must adhere to look great.
- Pair your patiala salwars with a straight cut kameez, as it will balance the flare of the salwar. This prevents bulkyness which is evident due to the pleats.
- Choose soft fabrics like cotton, silk and even georgette as they easily manage the pleats and highlight them beautifully.
- The dupatta is the main attraction of the salwar kameez. So, style it accordingly, pin it on the shoulder or do a side drape for that elegant look.
- Light jhumkas or bangles are enough since the outfit itself is rich. Avoid heavy necklaces for a graceful look.
- Complete your look with simple pumps or heavily embroidered juttis to look like a Punjabi girl.
Patiala Salwar Suit: An Important Part of The Salwar Kameez World
Patiala Salwar Suit is often confused with salwar kameez. However, this is not true, and a Patiala salwar suit is a part of the broad salwar kameez category. They are just like other salwar kameez types, namely, anarkali suits, straight suits, palazzo suits, etc. Click here to know more about trending salwar kameez styles.
Final Thoughts
Patiala salwar kameez has become a timeless choice amongst women for its culturally rich history and comfort level. Its signature pleats help one to move freely. The design is so pretty that it suits women of all ages, from teenagers to the elderly. The versatility of the suit is such that it works just as well for daily wear as it does for festivals and family functions.
FAQs
1. What is a Patiala salwar kameez?
A Patiala salwar kameez is a traditional Punjabi outfit known for its loose, pleated salwar and comfortable fit. It allows easy movement and looks graceful at the same time.
2. Which fabric is best for a Patiala salwar kameez?
Cotton is best for daily wear, while silk, chiffon, and georgette are good for festive and wedding occasions.
3. Can Patiala salwar kameez be worn for festivals?
Yes, Patiala salwar kameez is very popular for festivals like Lohri, Baisakhi, and Eid because it looks traditional and festive.
4. Who can wear a Patiala salwar kameez?
This outfit suits all body types. The loose salwar gives comfort, and the kameez can be stitched short or long based on preference.
5. How do you style a Patiala salwar kameez?
You can style it with juttis, a contrast dupatta, simple jewellery, and light makeup for a complete traditional look.
