Traditional outfits are different across India as the vast geographical diversity necessitated the use of local fabrics and the development of embroidery and embellishment techniques in ancient times. With modern technology and resources, these traditional garments are now being loved across the world. Several global designers are showcasing Indian-inspired designs with Western silhouettes. Similarly, Indian brands like Aachho are blending Western silhouettes with Indian textiles to create outfits that give an ode to our ancient practices.
Whether you want to wear ethnic clothes to all possible events or simply love vibrant designs, fusion wear is a great way to experiment with new silhouettes and patterns. Fusion clothing also brings global fashion trends like floral prints and ruffles to the Indian clothing landscape. Keep reading to know all about the world of contemporary trend-tradition fusion and trendy kurtas, sarees, and lehenga styles.
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Innovative Silhouettes
Fusion wear began with pairing Indian and Western clothing items, creating outlandish outfits that would turn heads but not always in a good way. In 2024, it’s all about looking fashionable and chic while seamlessly blending ethnic wear with modern silhouettes. It’s also no longer about indo-western fusion and can include the combination of global trends with ethnic prints and traditional textiles for effortless outfits. Here are some examples of silhouettes that are defining fusion wear today:
Neckline: Kurtas, blouses, and dresses featuring ethnic print fabrics with modern necklines such as sweetheart, halter, scoop, keyhole, and mandarin. Trending shoulder straps are also featured in Aachho’s kurtas such as the Hyena Handblock Tiered Suit Set.
Sleeves: Romantic sleeves that add volume are being loved by fashionistas at the moment and fusion wear too has adopted styles such as balloon and bell sleeves that are available in all lengths from cap sleeves to 3/4th and full length. Ruffles are another big trend in fusion wear for the fun elegant touch.
Leg Style: While churidars and salwar pants have been preferred bottoms with ethnic wear, women are choosing familiar straight-cut trousers or flared or wide palazzo styles. Some traditional bottoms such as the sharara, however, are a popular choice when paired with strappy sleeveless printed kurtas and peplum tops with beaded embroidery details.
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Adding Bling – The Traditional and Modern Way:
Fusion wear with mirror work is a top trend for the wedding season this year. Also known as sheesha or abhala bharat, the embroidery handicraft is widely practised in the state of Rajasthan. From statement details using reflective mirrors to fabrics showcasing intricate floral or geometric patterns, mirror work is the go-to for those who love bling and fusion. Rajasthan’s cultural heritage and vivid history are heavily featured in Aachho’s designs such as the Kaina Embroidered Anarkali Kurta.
While traditional mirror work is expensive and can be heavier, fusion wear is replacing it with much lighter sequined fabrics. The popularity of sequins is skyrocketing and garments like dresses, sarees, tops, pants, and skirts are all available in the shimmering fabric. The Black Bird Machine Chikankari Anarkali Kurta by Aachho showcases how these new and old techniques come together to make stunning fabrics.
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Hand Painted Floral Prints:
Hand-painted and hand-block floral printed fabrics are a signature of Aachho. The brand is well-known on social media for its floral fabrics such as the Squash Orange Hand-Painted Cotton Kurta And Pant With Dupatta. Floral prints, especially dark florals this winter, are a top fashion trend and fusion styling is not an exception. If you too have been loving florals, Aachho’s Curl Crested Pink Embellished Hand Painted Organza Silk Saree is a must-have for your wardrobe.
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Mismatched Prints:
While coordinating matching sets have been in the fashion cycle for a few years now, mismatched prints (when done right) are a classy choice. For example, the Imperial Red Handblock Kurta Set by Aachho features a Doriya dupatta in varying prints but complimentary colours, making a visually stunning combination.
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Metallic Hues:
Gota patti work involves a metallic trim that is used to create varied designs and attached to the fabric as appliques. It is yet another traditional Rajasthani technique that Aachho highlights in its collections – from the Kassia Sharara Set’s heavy gota patti work to the multi-toned ombre dupatta of the Spun Sugar Gota patti Kurta Set. Trendy soft metallics were loved by many for New Year’s festive looks and it’s no doubt that the metallic hues of the gota patti work will continue to be trendy. The fusion designs by Aachho also feature many tassels and hanging details using the traditional technique.
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Tie-Dyes:
Modern, minimal co-ord sets and dresses are a trendy option for resort wear and beach days. Aachho’s western wear options in tie-dye prints such as the Fagheera Shibori Cotton Co-ord or the Surkh Shibori Cotton Dress will become your go-to as it’s comfortable and stylish. For Indian women who prefer styles rooted in Indian culture, Aachho also offers bandhani style tie-dye prints in ethnic wear such as the Weathervave Tie and Dye Sharara Set.
