As summer approaches I see colourful billboards everywhere! Skinny models in glam make-up are wrapped in designer fabric – all to impress female consumers. The models wear long qameezes and short ones, baggy shirts and tight ones – what they do not wear are shalwars.
The traditional shalwar has all but disappeared from the modern silhouette. It has been replaced by the more Western inspired pants, capris, trousers and churidaars. The shalwar suit that was once a cultural icon is now, nowhere to be seen!
The dupatta has met a similar fate. Not so long ago, the dupatta was a cultural symbol worn by Pakistani women and was considered an accessory that was necessary to complete your outfit. Today, it is worn only by a particular segment of society who wear it for “modesty” not for fashion.
Fashion designers scoff at the traditional shalwar and embrace hybrid East meets West outfits which they label ‘shalwar kameez’. But really? Who are they kidding? The latest designs
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