Tamil Clothing

Traditional clothing in Tamil culture is rich and diverse, with distinct styles for men and women, particularly for various cultural, religious, and ceremonial occasions. Here’s a look at some of the most notable traditional clothing worn in Tamil Community.

1. **Clothing for Women**
Sari (Saree) is the most iconic traditional garment worn by Tamil women, especially during festivals, weddings, and formal occasions. It is a long piece of cloth, usually 6 to 9 yards, draped elegantly around the body. The sari is often paired with a blouse (called a **choli**) and a **petticoat** underneath. – Kanchipuram is known for its rich colors, intricate designs, and gold borders, it is one of the most popular choices for weddings and important ceremonies.

Churidhar / Salwar is a close-fitting outfit comprising a tunic (kurta) and tight-fitting pants (churidhar), which is popular in modern Tamil culture. It is worn casually or during semi-formal occasions, often paired with a dupatta (a long scarf).

2. **Clothing for Men**
Veshti (Dhoti) is the traditional attire for men in Tamil Nadu, particularly worn during religious ceremonies, festivals, and weddings. It is a simple rectangular piece of cloth wrapped around the waist and tied in place, often extending down to the ankles. It is similar to the dhoti worn in other parts of India but typically worn without the pleats.
White Veshti: This is the most common veshti worn for temple visits or formal occasions. It is usually made from cotton, and sometimes silk.
Colored Veshti: During weddings and special ceremonies, men may wear a veshti with colorful borders or even in richer fabrics like silk.
Shirt and Kurta: For less formal occasions, Tamil men wear a kurta (a knee-length tunic) with veshti. This combination is comfortable for daily wear or cultural gatherings.
Angavastram is a piece of cloth worn over the shoulder like a shawl, often paired with a veshti during religious rituals or temple visits. It is typically worn by elderly men or during formal ceremonies, adding an extra element of tradition.
Sherwani: For weddings or grand occasions which is a long coat-like garment with intricate embroidery, often paired with a churidar or pants.

For Boys:

👕 Veshti & Shirt / Angavastram – A white or colored veshti (dhoti) paired with a shirt or kurta. For special occasions, an angavastram (a decorative shawl) is worn over the shoulders.
👕 Panchakacham– A more traditional way of draping the veshti, usually worn during temple visits or festivals.
🎩 Mundu & Jibba – A comfortable yet traditional look with a mundu (dhoti) and a jibba (short kurta).

For Girls:

👗 Pavadai Sattai – A classic outfit consisting of a long skirt (pavadai) and a matching or contrasting blouse (sattai). Often made of silk or cotton with zari borders.
👗 Pattu Pavadai – A silk pavadai with intricate embroidery or gold borders, commonly worn for weddings and festivals.
👗 Half Saree – For older girls, a half saree includes a pavadai, a blouse, and a dupatta draped like a saree.