Wednesday, April 24, 2013

Spirituality and Sensuality in Indian clothing

It's been said that an Indian woman is the epitomy of what womanhood; charm, beauty elegance and much more. Being an Indian woman myself I'd have to agree! Part of this charm I believe lies in her clothing; the other part is something I feel every woman innately possesses.

Both women and men the world over are familiar with Indian clothing. It's evolved over the centuries and has achieved a fashion standard of its own. It has been looked upon by many a fashion designer for inspiration even. However no matter how much it's been modernized it still retains its traditional roots.

When we look at the sari, it's now available in a myriad of colors, fabrics and styles. Many Indian women in cities now only wear the sari for weddings, parties or special functions. Yet it's a paradox because when we look at the way a sari is draped around a woman's body, it is not only sensual but also very practical. In fact I'm sure women who wear it in Indian villages certainly do not have sensuality in mind! For these ladies it's a way of life, just like modern Indian ladies now wear jeans, skirts and dresses.

It's light and airy enough to withstand tropical Indian summers in which temperatures can soar up to 45-50 degrees Celsius. It's modest enough to cover the whole body without showing skin. The part of the sari that falls over the shoulder is especially useful - for wiping water or sweat, for wiping a child's runny nose, for wrapping around oneself for warmth, or for covering the head when entering a religious place. And I'm sure most men would agree- it can be enticing when worn well.

India truly is a land of opposites - in which both tradition and non- traditions have their place. How a simple, long piece of cloth can be draped such that it embodies a sense of practicality and sensuality- at the same time.

Esther @ www.soakupinfo.com/Esther
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