Few silhouettes have remained as effortlessly relevant in South Asian dressing as the pishwas and kalidar.
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Few silhouettes have remained as effortlessly relevant in South Asian dressing as the pishwas and kalidar. Rooted in a long tradition of flowing, layered garments, its appeal has always been in the way fabric is allowed to fall, gather and move around the body. Over time, that same sensibility has found its way into the modern maxi and the long, voluminous frock, with designers and dressmakers reworking the proportions through sweeping hemlines, gathered panels, fluid sleeves, fitted bodices and generous flare. The result is a silhouette that feels distinctly desi without being confined to occasion wear and can be dressed up or pared back depending on the fabric, embellishment and styling. Chiffon lends it an airy softness, cotton gives it an easy daytime quality, while silk, brocade and intricate embroidery can transform the same shape into something decidedly more formal. This week, You! explores flowing dresses in their many forms, from classic pishwas-inspired silhouettes to contemporary maxis and statement frocks…
An ivory pishwas features a fitted embroidered bodice and a softly flared, panelled skirt, scattered with rose and sage florals. A gold-worked hem and matching dupatta complete the look, styled with statement gold jewellery and a sleek updo.
Soft mint lends this outfit a light, airy quality, with sheer layers, floral embroidery and lace detailing tracing the elongated front panels. The beauty of this outfit is that the flow comes from the flared bottoms. The print adds contrast, while the lightly draped dupatta, delicate jewellery and loose waves keep the styling understated.
Blush and antique-gold floral embroidery stand out against the black base of this kalidar, featuring a fitted waist, full flare and keyhole neckline. A matching bordered dupatta falls over one shoulder, styled with gold jewellery and red roses tucked into a low updo.
A burnt-orange kalidar features an all-over deep green floral print, with embroidery tracing the neckline, sleeves and waist. A wide gold-toned dupatta adds contrast, while statement jewellery and a low updo completes the look.
This champagne-beige maxi takes shape with a full flare, scattered embellishment and a worked neckline framed by red-and-gold borders. A matching dupatta is draped over one shoulder, paired with statement earrings, delicate jewellery and softly swept hair.
Deep teal brings depth to this kalidar, pairing a floral-printed skirt with an embellished bodice and sheer, embroidered sleeves. Silver and gold work frames the hem, while a bordered dupatta is draped over one shoulder. Gold jewellery and a sleek updo complete the festive look.
Rich purple shapes this floor-length pishwas-inspired silhouette, with an embroidered bodice and full skirt dotted with delicate motifs. Heavier floral work gathers towards the hem, while a sheer, bordered dupatta and coordinated jewellery complete the formal look.
CREDITS
Text: Wallia Khairi l Designer: Aneela’s Collection
Featuring: Syed Tuba, Maria Malik & Rabita Al
Coordination: Umer Mushtaq l Styling: Vasim
Hair & Makeup: Shazia Rashid l Photography: Yasser Sadiq
