The dry, barren landscape and sepia-toned hues perhaps prompt the people here to indulge in a riot of colours in their day-to-day lives. Rajasthani costumes are a direct contrast to the colourless scenery and are bright, bold and beautiful in design and style. Right from royalty to the humble villager, all wear the clothes made possible by the skilled dyers of Rajasthan and Gujarat.

Royalty:

Royalty is as always, a class apart in their selection of clothes and jewellery. The Rangkhana and Chhapakhana were responsible for the dyeing and printing, while the Siwankhana ensured the perfect tailoring. Opulent and lavish in its use of stone and jewels, these costumes were embodiments of the Rajasthani heritage. Rich brocade and silks from Benares and Gujarat and light cottons from Chanderi and Dhaka were obtained to make these ornate costumes.

Male Attire:

The ubiquitous turban or headgear was and still is a symbol of Rajasthan's culture and heritage. It is to be found everywhere in varied styles and fabrics, designed to suit the terrain and the climate and also signifying the caste and status of the wearer. Apart from this accessory, the men are generally seen in angharkas (kurta-like uppers), dhotis orpajamas and kamarbands (broad waistbands).

Female Attire:

The women are even more gaily adorned than the men, in the brightest of hues and embroidery, mirror-work and tie and dye fabric. The traditional dress for women is the lehnga/ghagra (long skirt) with a kurti-like top, together with the odhni (long scarf), which is tucked into the skirt and brought around to cover the head. Jewellery is a given, ranging from precious stones to tribal-style, chunky pieces. Right from toe rings, anklets to waistbands, from necklaces, bracelets to hair pieces, Rajasthani costumes for women are a treat for the eyes.

Footwear:

Any travel in Rajasthan is incomplete without purchase of the very special sandals and footwear made heremeticulously by hand. The jooties as they are called come in various designs and colours and are made of camel, goat or sheepskin. Intricately embroidered in the brightest brocade and velvet, the footwear of Jaisalmer and Jodhpur is renowned all over the world.

In short, the costumes of Rajasthan are in their vividness and variety, an attractive and enduring symbol of Rajasthan’s culture and ancient heritage.