Modern Take on Age-Old Angrakhas

The best part of fashion is, it keeps coming back-perhaps in new silhouettes, exotic patterns and intriguing styles, but the essence remains the same and more often than not, the contemporary fashion is a revived version of the style deeply rooted in and inspired by the history. Interestingly, the fashion reminisced from the past is the most widely accepted and wearable of all.

One such style that has endured through the ages is the most versatile “Angrakha”. Traditionally, Angrakha is an upper garment worn by men in India, the term is said to have been derived from Sanskrit and its literal translation is “Body Protector”.

While this peculiar style of clothing is believed to have emerged during the mughal period, it’s also common to hear that Angrakhas were originated in Rajasthan.

Court style Angrakha, known as “Jama”

The angrakha worn as a court dress back in history, used to be a long coat-like flared tunic made of cotton, silk or brocade, with gathers on the waist. Also known as the “Jama”, the mughal angrakhas were embellished to reflect pure Royalty, while the Angrakha worn in Rajasthan by menfolk as a traditional attire is usually a shorter shirt or frock like upper garment ideally made of cotton to withstand dry and hot weather conditions there.

Illustration of Akbar wearing Angrakha

Though, the basic pattern is mostly the same- the cut is asymmetric, with open front, which is secured together by fastening the knots. The idea was to provide utmost comfort to and facilitate movement of the wearer.

However, there is no precise way to describe this adaptable piece of clothing. Apart from Rajasthan, it’s also widely popular as a traditional attire in Gujarat. Likewise, with little variations in length, cut and style, Angrakhas have remained prevalent across the country since ages.

Rajasthani man wearing Angrakha with turban and Khussas

Today, the traditional angrakhas are donned by men only as a part of rituals, but owing to its versatility, angrakha metamorphosed gradually over time and the garment which was once associated only with the menfolk has now been embraced as a fashion statement by women all over the country. The modern day Angrakhas are as multifaceted as the woman of today!

From tops, tunics, dresses, kurtas to even lehengas, Angarkha style has taken over almost every Indian attire you could think of, the options are endless, pair them with dhotis, salwars, culottes, churidars or complement them with, khussas, pumps or wedges, be as experimental as it can get. But, don’t forget to have a look at our own pick of angrakhas here:

Red Khadi Angrakha style dress from The Loom

Mustard Cotton Angrakha Kurta from The Loom

Cotton Angrakha Kurta from The Loom

Picture Sources:

1. http://metmuseum.org
2. getty Images
3. getty Images
4. http://www.theloom.in/collections/earthy-hues
5. http://www.theloom.in/collections/noor-1
6. http://www.theloom.in/collections/color-story

By Zainab Samar