History of Indian Costumes & Textiles

India is a culturally rich land, where heritage is ingrained in every speck. The evolution of the various costumes and the ability to adapt western style has resulted in innovative contemporary designs. However, the simplicity of the bygone days should be remembered and revived.

Historically, clothes were only seen as a means of protection. Animal skin or other natural sources were used as clothing, but lead to newer means and also the climatic conditions played a critical role in the use of materials. In fact, the use of fabrics is traced as far back as the Indus Valley Civilization. Cotton was one of the first fabrics to be known to us; since the material is apt for the subcontinent’s climate, cotton was quite widespread. Spun, woven and dyed since prehistoric times, Cotton has been discovered in ancient Egypt and China. Long before the western textiles entered the scene Cotton was worn by Indians with matchless skill and the neighboring Mediterranean countries. Linen was said to be made during this time.

This knowledge that we possess today is based on the sculptures and paintings in caves left by the people of that time. Based on these tokens from history we can estimate their way of living, like there are images showing people wearing something that appears to be a dhoti. And from the fragments left it appears that the upper class population wore muslin with gold ornaments. 

  

Buddha wearing the Greek himation

Trade between the neighboring courtiers ensured the exchange of not only culture, but also goods that brought in different styles and fabrics. The 1^st century saw trade between Greeks and various other races. An example of this was seen in an image of Buddha wearing the Greek himation. 

Gupta's 

During Vedic times people were draped in three-piece unstitched clothing which continued in the Maurya and Gupta period. As trade exchanges increased, the exposure to different culture increased. Indigo was brought in by the Romans for dyeing and China introduced silk textiles through the Silk Road.

Maurya's

Weaving techniques were diverse out of which most have survived till date. Some of the weaves are Kasika Vastra and Jamdani from Varanasi. Designs and motifs varied and every region emerged with distinct techniques and styles.

The way people dressed at any given time in history is a glimpse into that era. The colors, textiles, motifs shape the costumes of a time in history serve as a reference point for all. For a fashion aspirant to be familiar with the fashions of different times in history is imperative and more so of their own country. We at Whistling Woods Neeta School of Fashion encourage this and hence our syllabus covers everything from current innovations to inspiring traditions.