Cholis, or sari blouses, are worn under saris in India, Pakistan, and other regions. They come in various styles, from bold to modest, and can be made from a variety of fabrics. Cholis can also be worn with salwar kameez and as camisoles. They can be adjusted for modesty with the use of a dupatta or sari draping techniques.
A choli or sari blouse is a form-fitting garment that is designed to be worn under a sari. Choli designs can be highly varied, ranging in style from bold to modest, and these garments are widely worn in India, Pakistan, and other regions where the sari and related garments are worn. Most stores that sell Indian clothing carry cholis, and it is also possible to find sewing patterns for these simple blouses, for those who prefer to make their own.
The classic choli design is short-sleeved, with a deeply gathered neckline and a bare torso. In the heat of Southeast Asia, the lightweight design can be a welcome comfort, especially when worn with a lightweight sari, and some people further refine the design by creating slits in the back or adding buttons or lacing up the front. More conservative cholis may have higher necks, longer sleeves, or longer bottom hems that cover more of the abdomen, and in regions where the sari is worn, office dress codes often specify what types of choli can be worn. use in the workplace.
Traditionally, the choli has been made from the same fabric as the sari, with many sari makers adding extra length to their products so that women can cut off the end of the sari and sew it into a matching choli. However, cholis do not have to match the sarees they are worn with, and can be made in a wide variety of fabrics. As sarees can be very expensive, many women like to buy new saree tops to change the look of their garments.
The choli has several alternative names, in addition to “sari blouse.” In Pakistan, the choli is known as lengha, and in the widely spoken Telugu language in India, it is called ravika. In addition to being worn with sarees, cholis can be worn under the salwar kameez as camisoles, and are also worn in the West over jeans and gypsy skirts; Many belly dancers in particular like to wear cholis when performing.
The modesty of a choli can be adjusted by the cut of the garment or by the garments worn with it. In areas where the scarf known as a dupatta is worn, the dupatta can be draped to provide greater coverage, allowing women to remove the dupatta to keep cool when at home or in the company of friends. Various sari draping techniques can also be used to minimize or maximize exposed flesh, depending on the taste and cultural values of the wearer.
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