Salwar Kameez, the essential three piece attire for Bangladeshi women

_ 1. Salwar-bottom, loose fitting pajama-like pant.  The top of a salwar is gathered at the waist held in place either by a drawstring or by an elastic band. The typical style has a widely flared leg leading to a narrow horizontal band at the end. Newer, modern styles preferred by the younger population have a narrower cut with an appearance similar to leggings. Many different styles of fabrics, prints and embellishments are popular in Bangladesh


 

 
2. Kameez- top, also known as a kurta. A traditional kameez is a straight, loose piece of fabric with long sleeves and a tunic-like shape extending to the mid-thigh or as low as just above the knee. Slits on both sides allow the legs to move unimpeded. The neckline, sleeves and bottom edge are usually decorated with embroidery or some other form of embellishment.
 
3. Duppata- a scarf. This is a rectangular shaped piece of fabric worn in the front with the sides falling at the back from over the shoulders. As with the salwar and kameez, duppatas are worn plain or embellished. The duppata is used as a measure of modesty as well as function. It aides in covering the face for modesty where this practice is still common among India or in the desert during a heavy wind.
Orpita Khan
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