22/03/2022
Throughout the extent of the Mughal empire during the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries in the Indian subcontinent, the Mughal dressing took its form. Mughal clothing had luxurious sty6les and was made with muslins, silks, velvet and brocade. The various muslins had poetic names like ab-i-rawan, meaning "running water", and daft hawa, meaning "woven air". Muslins called Shabnam famous as Dhaka malmal were brought from Dhaka to create the luxurious style.
Traditionally Mughal men wore Jama (a long over-lapping coat) with patka ( a long piece of fine fabric was tied like a sash) tied around on the waist and Pai-jama (English word pajama) style pants were worn under the Jama along with Chogha (a long-sleeved coat, open down the front) over the Jama. A Pagri or Turban pinned with ornaments and decorative stones were worn to complete the outfit.
Whereas women of the imperial court practiced an elaborate beauty ritual consisting of the 16 rituals like appling kajal, missi (used to whitened teeth), nath with diamonds, betel leaf was used to redden the lips, sweeten breath and as deodorant.
Fashion in the early days of Mughal period were inspired from Khurasan and Persia. Women wore Churidar over pai-jama like Shalwar , Dhilja, Garara, Farshi along with robes like Peshwaz and Yalek. With the addition of Rajput princesses during the reign of Akbar, Hindu clothing came to influence the court.
The garments were very thin, weighing less than an ounce each and transparent, creating a styling layer when worn in multiple layers. All of these clothes were regularly scented with rose water. Shawls were reportedly so thin they could pass through a finger-ring.
The garments were very thin, weighing less than an ounce each and transparent, creating a styling layer when worn in multiple layers. All of these clothes were regularly scented with rose water. Shawls were reportedly so thin they could pass through a finger-ring.
