What Should You Include in Your Pakistani Formal Wardrobe?
When it comes to formal wear for interviews or office meetings, most people think that they should go for Western wear. While western wear like blazers and pants do give a neat look and professional appeal, many women prefer to wear Pakistani dresses to formal events for their cultural authenticity and timeless charm.
Pakistani Formal Wardrobe Must Haves
While Pakistani formal wear can undoubtedly exude grace, sophistication, and a cultural flair, it’s important to be mindful of appropriateness when joining a university or workplace.
While it’s tempting to take inspiration from Pakistani TV shows, where main characters often sport silver jhumkis to the office or bright floral prints to meetings, replicating such looks may lead to appearing overdressed or dressed for the wrong occasion. It’s essential to strike a balance between embracing Pakistani style and adhering to the dress code and cultural norms of your specific academic or professional environment.
So, without further ado, let’s check out some wardrobe essentials to create a refined and culturally inspired wardrobe that is both respectful and stylish:
1. Simple Chickenkaari Dress
Some simple chickenkaari dresses are a must in your wardrobe. You can pick colors like white, Alkarambeige, or light, pastel colors and pair it with a dupatta of a brighter shade. For example, a navy-blue dupatta could look stylish with a plain light blue chickenkaari suit.
You can even pair a plain white chickenkaari dress with an old chiffon or cotton dupatta. Add small hoops or pearl earrings to complete the look.
2. Plain Cambric Dress
Dresses without prints look perfect as formal office wear. You can choose to style the dress with delicate laces or contrasting stitching to add design elements to it. This purple cambric 2pc from Alkaram studio’s ready-to-wear collection looks perfect as office day wear. Pair it with a white dupatta or you can even rock it without one.
3. Trousers
Keep two pairs each of black, white, and beige colored trousers in your wardrobe. You can pair it with yarn dyed kurtis or even delicate floral-patterned tops. Select a variety of different trouser designs to create versatility in your looks. For example, you could have the following types of trousers in your wardrobe:
- Same color embroidered trousers
- Trousers with delicate laces
- Trousers with buttons
- Self-printed trousers
You can even keep some loose trousers to pair with tops that have a slim fit. Straight trousers pair well with tops that have a loose fit.
4. Blacks and Whites with Jeans
Introducing a touch of Western influence to your Pakistani wardrobe can bring about a refreshing blend of styles. Incorporating blacks and whites can work wonders in creating versatile ensembles.
You can pair a black jacquard top with slim-fit or mom jeans to create a chic and modern look. Also, since white complements blue jeans flawlessly, it is a great choice if you want to go for a crisp and clean aesthetic. For an extra dash of flair, consider adorning your white kurti with a stylish shrug or cardigan.
5. Plain Dupattas
If a dupatta is a must-have for you, make sure you have dupattas in your wardrobe in multiple colors. While black and white are essential basics, it’s beneficial to have a range of options. Plain chiffon dupattas or those with delicate prints can complement plain outfits beautifully, allowing you to create a perfect and well-coordinated look.
By having a variety of dupattas at your disposal, you can effortlessly enhance your ensemble and add a pop of color or subtle pattern, elevating your overall style.
Final Words
When building your formal wardrobe, it’s important to consider the appropriateness of your outfits for office or university settings. While festive three-piece suits with silk dupattas or intricate embroidery may not be suitable for everyday wear, incorporating basic trousers and jeans is a smart choice.
Additionally, adding plain tops and trousers to your collection allows for easy mixing and matching, maximizing the versatility of your wardrobe.
