Punjabi Culture

 The salwar kameez is a traditional outfit worn by Punjabi women. It comprises a pair of trousers known as the salwar and a tunic called the kameez. Traditionally, the salwar trousers are tailored to be long and loose-fitting with narrow hems above the ankles that are stitched to look like cuffs. Punjabi men also wear the salwar, but they pair their trousers with a shorter tunic known as the kurta, which is the male version of the kameez.

The traditional kameez top is a loose-fitting, knee-length tunic with long sleeves. The tunic is worn by pulling it over the head through a round neckline that has a front slit.

The salwar kameez is usually paired with a long, sheer fabric scarf or shawl known as a dupatta, which is either draped across the neck or over the head. Decorative patterns may also be embroidered around the neckline, sleeves, hems and side slits of the outfit.

Like other forms of dress, the length and width of the salwar kameez have been influenced by fashion trends. The width of the trouser cuffs on the salwar has ranged from as wide as 30 cm for the “pantaloon” look as narrow as 10 cm for “harem” pants. The length of the kameez has also varied from between mid-thigh during the “mini” craze to well below the knee during the “midi” phase.