Dhoti Pants 101: A Beginner's Guide to this Indian Fashion Trend

The History of Dhoti

The dhoti is a traditional Indian garment that has been worn for thousands of years. It consists of a rectangular piece of cloth, usually about 5 yards long, that is wrapped around the waist and legs in various styles. The dhoti has been a symbol of Indian culture and identity, particularly for men.

The Modern Dhoti Pant

In recent years, the traditional dhoti has been reimagined as the dhoti pant, a fusion garment that combines the aesthetic of the dhoti with the practicality of pants. Dhoti pants are pre-stitched, making them easier to wear than the traditional dhoti, which requires specific folding and tucking techniques.

Types of Dhoti Pants

There are several variations of dhoti pants available today:

1. Classic Dhoti Pants

These closely resemble the traditional dhoti but are pre-stitched for convenience. They often have a loose, flowing silhouette and are typically made from cotton or linen.

2. Dhoti Harem Pants

These combine elements of the dhoti with harem pants, resulting in a garment that's loose around the hips and thighs but tapers at the ankles.

3. Dhoti Salwar

This is a variation commonly worn by women, combining the dhoti style with the salwar, a traditional Indian pant.

How to Style Dhoti Pants

Dhoti pants are versatile and can be styled in various ways:

For Men

• Pair with a kurta for a traditional look
• Wear with a fitted t-shirt for a fusion style
• Add a Nehru jacket for formal occasions

For Women

• Pair with a crop top or short kurti
• Add statement jewelry for a festive look
• Wear with a fitted blouse for a contemporary style