subject: The Evolution Of A Traditional Lehenga Into A Designer Lehenga Choli [print this page] The origin of a lehenga choli can be traced back to medieval ages and even before in India. It used to be the royal attire of the queens and princesses. From typical dress of royalty to a customary dress being worn on special occasions, a lehenga has come a long way in the course of all these years.
Today, wearing a lehenga has become quite ceremonial not only for the bride but also by the close relatives on the family. A designer lehenga choli is the evolved form of this traditional dress which is all encompassing in style and elegance. Every bride aspires to look like a queen on her wedding day and what other way to do it than stepping into a designer lehenga choli which transforms you into a living princess of the bygone era.
When we talk about this ethnic dress, one cannot miss the mention of a Rajasthani lehenga choli in the context. Since Rajasthan has been home to the great Rajputana tradition and cultures since time immemorial, a typical pattern of Rajasthani lehenga choli became a craze with time. This pattern has old and exquisite hand work on the skirt which also has a lot of flares. Legend has it that the royal ladies of Rajasthan used to wear such heavy lehengas that their maid servants had to carry them along as they walked. There used to be real gold and diamond work on their dresses which made them so bulky. Such was the grandeur of this desert state of India that many women still prefer this old style of a Rajastahni Lehenga choli on their wedding day. When actress Raveena Tandon decided to marry in a royal style, she chose a Rajasthani Lehenga Choli and Udaipur as her wedding destination.
Though silk, brocade, linen, net and chiffon are preferred fabrics for making this dress; there are many kinds of affordable versions also available in the name of a cotton lehenga choli. These kinds are usually worn during dandia festivals in Gujarat and Rajasthan. Every year sees newer trends and hotter styles in cotton lehenga choli being chosen for this occasion. These are available in bandhini style which is also known as the art of tie and dye. Mirror work patterns are also popular and further add charm to the festive spirit of the people. Then there are also patch works, kalamkari, ikat work and many other hand embroidered chaniya cholis worn by the young girls during the festivals.
Whichever occasion you might opt to wear it; a designer lehenga choli has definitely made its mark not only in India but also on the international platform. With more and more designers trying their hand on this garment, buying it online has also become possible of late. Many websites bring the mystic and charm of this dress right to the comforts of your home with their ethnic wear online web stores. Rajrang.com is one such sight. So next time when you choose to add another one to your kitty, dont forget the online option in store.
