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The dupatta, a long headscarf worn in traditional dress in many Asian cultures, can be draped in various ways and made from different fabrics. It has a long history and is still worn today, even inspiring Western fashion trends. Making or buying a dupatta is easy, and it can be worn with many outfits for an eye-catching fashion statement.
A dupatta is a long headscarf popular in the traditional dress of many Asian cultures. Also called a chunni, the scarf is commonly seen throughout India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. The scarf can be draped over the head and shoulders in many different ways, and can be worn with everything from pantsuits to evening gowns.
According to historical evidence, veils and scarves have been used throughout India and South Asia for hundreds of years. They were often traditional garments for religious ceremonies and special occasions such as weddings. Today, the dupatta is still worn by brides, but it has become an everyday accessory with a history dating back to ancient times. In the expansion of global culture, many Western fashion trends have been inspired by or include the use of the dupatta.
The scarf can be made from many types of fabric. It is often heavily embroidered or done with a contrasting border. Linen, cotton, silk, and chiffon are all common materials used. Dupattas come in a rainbow of colors and can be chosen to match or complement your outfit.
As the dupatta is basically a long and wide cloth, it can be worn in different ways. Traditionally, the scarf is pulled over the head and draped over the shoulders or left to hang directly across the chest. The most modern styles do not use it as a head covering, instead covering their shoulders in many different ways. It can be worn as a backward scarf, covering the throat and having both ends fall down the back of the body. It can also be folded and fixed only over one shoulder.
Making your own dupatta can be as easy as buying a wide piece of fabric and hemming the edges, but it can also be much more elaborate. You will need about 6-9 feet (2-3 yd or 1.8-2.7 m) of your primary fabric, approximately 45 inches (1.1 m) wide. For easy, flowing draping, choose a lightweight fabric like chiffon or georgette. To make a contrasting trim, buy a secondary fabric or enough wide ribbon to cover the edges of your scarf. If you can embroider or would like to learn, embroidering dupattas is a great way to test your skills.
If you prefer to buy a dupatta, check online stores for available supplies. Their price varies greatly depending on the material, the intended use and the preference of the merchant. If you’re planning a trip to India, Pakistan, or Bangladesh, and want to buy an authentic dupatta while you’re there, remember to bargain with the vendors. Most markets in these countries encourage bargaining, so never pay the first price offered. For reference in bargaining, most dupattas seem to cost around $40 US dollars (USD). This price may increase for more elaborate versions of the scarf.
Dupattas are worn over many everyday outfits in all the countries with which it is associated. Whether worn with a tunic over wide leg pants, a sari and choli top, or even on top of a Western-style suit, the dupatta makes an eye-catching fashion statement. In areas where the sun is a constant presence, it can also offer protection from harmful rays. The scarf style has been around almost intact for hundreds of years, and seeks to continue to spread its beauty and usefulness in a global culture.
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