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Cultural Appreciation: Indian Sherwani Style

Sherwani Womens Style

Welcome to the Old World New presents: “Cultural Appreciation, Not Appropriation” Series, Installment 3!   (See Installment 1 here, 2 here)

Diversity is the spice of life.  I love pulling influence from different cultures.  The easy access to knowledge of different peoples’ heritages has helped shaped me to be who I am today.   Therefore, I practice love, not hate.  I practice cultural appreciation, not cultural appropriation. Learn about and have respect for the cultures that you seek to emulate – you’ll be happy that you opened your mind to “a whole new world” (I hope you sang that in your Jasmine & Aladdin voice, because I did!).

Cultural Influence: Indian Sherwani Style

I purchased this robe-like garment at a thrift store, and from my research I believe it to be a sleeveless, collarless, long Sherwani robe of Indian (Asia) origin.  Traditionally, a Sherwani has sleeves and a high collar, but there are many variations on those two aspects, as well as the length.  It is also a standard wear for men in their wedding ceremonies.  Apparently Buzzfeed knows what’s up with their post tagged “Sherwanis 4 Life” where they give “definitive proof every dude looks dapper as f*** in a sherwani.”  Women, too, when they wear them.  If you’re with Buzzfeed and you’re reading this – feel free to link back to me to show a woman looking street chic as *bleep* in sherwani-esque garb.  You’re welcome 🙂

So what does a traditional Sherwani look like?  Let’s see it in traditional form and in a recent American interpretation from the hit show Empire.

Black & Maroon Sherwani

viaEmpire SherwaniFox / via

When I think of Asiatic Indian clothing, I think colorful, plentiful in fabric and intricate deigns.  Their clothing and details always make me happy.  I love saris that women usually wear with a small portion of midriff revealed.  To amp up the cultural knowledge, I’ll share some random facts I’ve learned and opinions I’ve formed about Indian culture from when I was a student that was heavily involved in cultural experiences on my college campus.

  1. Caribbean culture has heavy Indian influences, and the islands are real melting pots, as there is a high percentage of people with Indian heritage on several islands.
  2. Diwali is a festival of lights celebrated by the Hindu, Sikh and Jain religions.  The major theme of this 5 day festival (with the 3rd day serving as the main holiday) is the driving away of darkness by light, and goodness triumphing over evil.  Fireworks are always plentiful during the celebration.  I had the opportunity to dance for a Diwali banquet with my Caribbean club some years ago, and it was one of my favorite routines to perform!  The outfits were fun and festive, as well.Diwali Banquet
  3. Curry goat is amazing.  If you ever have the chance to eat at an Indian restaurant, don’t be afraid to try the goat.  It is my favorite!

curry goat and naan in Rome, Italy

My “Old World New” Sherwani Style Interpretation

I wore this sherwani in a kimono style that is popular in American fashion right now.  I wore a simple white t-shirt tucked into denim shorts (thrifted Wrangler pants, cut and distressed) along with my Steve Madden cream toned snake skin shoes.  With this outfit, the relatively simple Sherwani stole the show because of its length and intricate design lining the opening.

Old World New Sherwani Style 2 Old World New Sherwani Style 7 Old World New Sherwani Style 6 Old World New Sherwani Style 4 Old World New Sherwani Style 5 Old World New Sherwani Style 3 Old World New Sherwani Style 1Old World New Sherwani Style 4 Sherwani Style for WomenAre y’all loving this Cultural Style Appreciation series as much as I am?  It is combining so many things I love – history, style, making old things new because most of the pieces are thrifted, and also because I’m showing you a new way you can style them.  I feel blessed to be able to share it with y’all.  Until the next installment, check out the previous (1 & 2) posts.

xoxo, dolls & dudes!

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  7. I absolutely love the cultural appreciation vs cultural appropriation comparison, what a great way to put it!!
    I LOVE LOVE LOVE the Sherwani kimono…excellent find!!
    What an interesting, beautiful post!
    xo
    Carrie
    CS Gems

    Reply

  9. You look amazing!! I love your take on Indian culture. This outfit is authentic, but innovative at the same time. That sherwani is gonna be super cute in the fall!

    Reply

    • Thank you so much, Evi! I hope to inspire others to do the same with their unique fashion finds. And I can’t wait to style it for the fall! 🙂

      Reply

    • Hey Tom, I like your picks! I’m going to look more in to Kurtas and if I see any while thrifting, I definitely won’t hesitate to buy it and put a modern style spin on it ☺️

      Reply

  20. I love this post and this series! Not only do you incorporate other cultures in your outfit, but you share more about them too! This look came together so well. It’s simple but stands out at the same time. Thanks for sharing!

    Reply

  23. 1. YES I am loving this series so much! Never stop!!!!
    2. I LOVE how you styled this. From head to toe, it’s a perfect look that’s super chic but doesn’t detract from your statement piece. Also those shorts fit you perfectly – I need to get on your thrifting level!

    Reply