Wear as revealing clothes as you want! Yes! You read that correctly. India is a democratic country where everyone is free to wear whatever they choose. You’ve probably read or will discover numerous bloggers urging you to wear less revealing, full-covering, and “so-called” clothes for India. It’s never about how to dress in India as a female tourist; it’s about where and when you should wear it.
I’m thinking that you’re looking for outfits or dresses that are appropriate for summer in India. Why did I assume that? Because most people cover themselves with sweaters, coats, and the like throughout the cold. I don’t think you require assistance in that area. If you’re wondering how to dress during winter in India, you may wear a sweater, jacket, thermals, or other clothing you like. Winter clothing can be Indian, Western, or Indo-western.
Is There a Certain Way to Dress in India?
No! The answer is really simple. You can wear whatever you want. In India, individuals usually dress according to the occasion and location. Diverse parts of India have diverse cultures, settings (which include people’s mentalities), and festivities.
Let me give you an example: consider the city of Goa, which is known for its beaches and tourist attractions. If you’re heading to a beach in the Indian state of Goa, you can wear any kind of swimsuit. If you go to a temple, on the other hand, you should wear less revealing outfits. Why? Because you will stand out from the crowd and may feel uncomfortable as a result of the stares. People there feel that clothing should be worn to cover the body rather than for fashion.
Finally, I’ll remind you again that it’s still your choice. Hey! Are you ready for a secret? Even if you do not intend to purchase, you will like Indian clothing. You will be unable to resist the vibrant, wonderfully designed traditional Indian wear.
How To Dress In India As A Female Tourist?
Are you ready to go shopping? We, ladies, can’t get enough of shopping, and the thrill of it is incomparable. When it comes to buying traditional Indian wear, vibrant colors catch the attention of shoppers. In this travellingortraveling blog on how to dress in India, you will find some suggestions for the top half, bottom half, and dresses.
Top Half
In this section, you will find suggestions for top wear. These pieces will be suitable for extreme and harsh summer, normal Indian temperatures (25-40), and autumn. I have attached my favs, bestselling, and perfect tops below 😉
#1 Floerns Women’s Ruffle Striped Mexican Embroidered Babydoll Blouse Top
Buy Now – Amazon.comThe first spot goes to this beautifully embroidered white blouse. I fell in love with this one the instant I saw it. This blouse includes a drawstring neckline, ruffled sleeves, multi-colored embroidery, and some pom poms 😉 The elegance and appropriateness with Indian culture, weather, and style are what I liked most about this one.
Fabric: Cotton
Colors: White, grey, blue, and pink.
Ocassion: This white embroidered blouse will make you glow on every occasion. It is perfect for traveling,
Pair with: Black or blue shorts/Jeans/Wideleg pants, Printed or dark-colored harem pants, palazzo, etc.
Pros:
- Sleeveless tops are perfect for summer
- Comfortable, elegant, and lightweight
- Features Indian embroidery
- Material is cotton (best for summer)
- Light color (especially white) beats the heat
#2 LauraKlein Women’s Summer Boho Embroidery Mexican Bohemian Tops V Neck 3/4 Sleeve Causal Loose Shirt Blouse Tunic
Lauraklein women’s Mexican bohemian top features beautiful embroidery details around the neckline, bottom, and shoulders. The unique and intricate Mexican peasant embroidery adds a special touch to this short-sleeved top. The combination of the intricate stitching and the vibrant color palette enhances the overall uniqueness of this tunic.
Fabric: 100% Cotton Rayon
Colors: White, grey, black, blue, etc.
Occasion: Wear this Boho Top wherever you want. Additionally, this top makes an excellent gift for wive, mothers, friends, aunts, and even for yourself. Showcasing both fashion and cultural appreciation, they are sure to be appreciated by anyone who receives them.
Pros:
- Vibrant color
- Can be paired with different bottom wears
- 3/4 sleeve protects from sun
- Stylish yet comfortable
#3 Women’s Floral Print Puff Sleeve Kimono Cardigan Loose Cover Up Casual Blouse Tops
Here is another suggestion on how to dress in India as a female tourist. This piece is made of chiffon, a sheer and airy fabric known for its softness, lightweight feel, and comfort. It provides the perfect option for layering over your existing tops, allowing you to create stylish and culturally appropriate outfits while exploring India.
Fabric: 95% Polyester, and 5% Other Fibers
Colors: 40+ color and print options available.
Occasion: Rule any kind of occasion with the floral kimono!
Pair with: Camisole and Shorts/Jeans, and Swimsuit (if you are planning to go beach).
Some suggestions for cute swimsuits are:
- Cupshe Women’s One Piece Swimsuit Sexy Black Cutout Scallop Trim Bathing Suit
- Zaful Women Keyhole Bandeau Tankini With Removable Straps, High Waisted Padded Bathing Suit Two Pieces Swimsuit
- MakeMeChic Women’s Two Piece Outfit Summer Cami Crop Top with Shorts
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Easy to wear
- Stylish, and available in many colors
- Can assist you in wearing revealing clothes
- Perfect for India
- Can be used outside India
#4 Vanfany Sleeveless Tops For Women Dressy Casual Summer Blouses Trendy Eyelet Office Work Shirts
Introducing a wardrobe essential for the spring and summer seasons – Vanfany sleeveless top for women. This versatile top features a pleated front, a sleeveless blouse style, and a tunic length. With its solid color, high-neck camisole, and flowy construction, it exudes a sense of effortless elegance and is perfect for warm weather.
Fabric: Polyester and Spandex
Colors: White, vivid green, pink, black, blue, and many others.
Occasion: Simple and natural design allows it to be worn to all events. Pair with the right bottom half and wear in the office, to a party, picnic, home, exercise class, beachwear, wedding, church, etc.
Pair with: Leggings, jeans, wide-leg pants, palazzo, shorts, long and short skirts, etc, etc. Just pair it with the right bottom half and it will for any event (majority).
Pros:
- Breathable, Lightweight, and comfortable
- Sleeveless is perfect for summers
- Neutral color options
- Elegant and can be worn on many occasions
- Loved by every woman that sees it
#5 Tankaneo Women Half Sleeve Cropped T-Shirt Drop Shoulder Round Neck Crop Tops Casual Summer Solid Color Basic Tees
Did you realize something? Indians wear the same kinds of clothes. We just wear Indian ethnic outfits when there’s some special occasion like a festival, etc. This cropped top!? This particular item is undoubtedly a must-have if you are traveling to India.
The T-shirt features half sleeves, a drop shoulder, a round neck, a loose and relaxed fit, and a plain design. Its cute cropped style, coupled with the simplicity of the half sleeves, adds a touch of stylishness to your overall look.
Fabric: 65% Cotton, 30% Polyester, and 5% Spandex
Colors: All the colors you can think of.
Occasion: Tankaneo Women Half Sleeve Cropped T-Shirt is for various daily activities. Wear at home, work, sports, parties, and holidays. Undoubtedly, an essential fashion item in a woman’s wardrobe, particularly during the summer season.
Pair with: Leggings, Jeans, Wideleg pants, shorts, harem pants, skirts, long skirts, palazzo, etc. In short, wear it with any kind of bottom half.
Pros:
- A must-have top
- Comfortable, breathable, and lightweight
- Elegant and non-revealing
- Can be worn with any kind of bottom half
- All the colors available
- Suitable for different occasions
#6 Chandrakala Women’s Printed Kurti Indian Ethnic Tunic Top Kurti Kurta Dress
Last but not least Indian Kurti! The Indian Kurti is an ethnic Indian garment worn across India. The majority of traditional clothing is worn during different festivals in different places. Kurta and Kurti are favored by both men and women across India.
How to dress in India as a female tourist? Well, get this one! The Chandrakala Women’s printed Kurti features a captivating Bandhej print, which holds significant popularity in India. If you genuinely want to buy something that truly represents Indian culture, this kurta is the perfect choice.
Fabric: 100% Cotton
Colors: Red, pink, white, black, etc.
Occasion: People in India typically wear kurtas during festivals, outings, and when relaxing. Yes, every day, at every event, and wherever they go.
Pair with: Leggings, Jeans, Wideleg pants, harem pants, long skirts, palazzo, etc
Pros:
- Available with famous Indian Bandhej print
- Cotton is perfect for summer
- Protection from sun by full sleeves
- Available in vibrant colors
- Lightweight and comfy
Bottom Half
Indeed, the coordination of bottom wear is crucial for enhancing the overall appearance of an outfit. When traveling in India, it is essential to prioritize both comfort and style. In this section of bottom halves, you will find some common (can go with anything), comfy and cute suggestions.
#1 QIANXIZHAN Women’s Harem Pants, High Waist Yoga Boho Trousers with Pockets
Absolutely! These harem pants are a must-have. They are incredibly versatile and suitable for a variety of occasions. The inclusion of pockets and the choice of neutral shades adds both style and functionality to these pants. Additionally, the elasticated high waist ensures a comfortable fit and enhances their durability, making them a practical and fashionable choice.
Fabric: 65% Cotton, 30% Polyester, and 5% Spandex
Colors: White, grey, black, blue, printed, etc.
Other types of Harem pants suggested are:
- Solid and single-colored: B Bangkok Pants Women’s Harem Pants Jumpsuit Hippie Clothes
- Printed: Banjamath Women’s Peacock Print Aladdin Harem Hippie Pants Jumpsuit
Occasion: Harem pants are a versatile choice suitable for a wide range of occasions in daily life, including at home, work, sports activities, parties, and holidays. Their loose and comfortable fit makes them ideal for everyday wear.
Pair with: Top (Blouse, Crop top, Tank top), Tunic, Kurta (short and long), etc
Pros:
- Comfortable, breathable, and lightweight
- Elegant
- Can wear during trekking and hiking
- Perfect for daily life/ everyday wear
#2 Floerns Women’s Boho Elastic High Waisted Ruffle Hem Wide Leg Palazzo Pants
These bottom halves are adored by Indians and are versatile enough to be paired with various tops, creating stunning outfits. The non-stretch fabric provides a structured feel. With an elastic high waist, boho casual loose style, tiered layers, ruffle hem, and wide leg design, these palazzo pants offer a fashionable and comfortable look.
Fabric: 95% Viscose and 5% Spandex
NOTE: Different fabrics are used in making different colors.
Colors: White, blue, black, pink, yellow, etc.
Occasion: Fit for all indoor activities (like a workout, home wear, etc). Even better for outdoor activities (like dates, holidays, shopping, travel, etc)
Pair with: Floerns wide-leg Palazzo pants will be compatible with all kinds of top halves. Top (T-shirt, camisole, cropped top), shrug with a camisole, Tunic, Kurta (short and long), sports bra, etc.
Pros:
- Popular among Indians
- Pair with any top half
- Comfortable, breathable, and lightweight
- Has elastic high waist
- All color options available
#3 Happy Sailed Womens Boho Print Palazzo Pants Elastic High Waist Drawstring Wide Leg Hippie Flowy Pants
Indian wears are famous for their vibrant colors and these wide-leg pants embody that characteristic. With an elastic and drawstring waist, they offer a comfortable and adjustable fit. The trendy tribal patterns add a stylish touch. Made from a light and breathable material, these pants are perfect for wearing during the spring, summer, and fall seasons.
Fabric: 100% Polyester
Colors: White, blue, black, pink, yellow, etc.
Occasion: Plazzo is perfect for beach outings, cocktail parties, and casual parties, exuding a relaxed yet stylish vibe. Additionally, they are ideal for traveling and provide comfort during relaxation or workouts.
Pair with: Top (cropped top, tank top), Sports bra, Solid short kurta, long kurta, etc.
Pros:
- Comfy, breathable, and lightweight
- Has vibrant colors
- Available with Indian print
- Specially made for summers
- Suitable for both indoor and outdoor activities
#4 LUX LYRA Indian Churidar Leggings for Women Cotton Chudidars Extra Long Leggings
Leggings are highly popular and comfortable bottom wear in India. These long cotton churidar leggings for women feature a soft elasticized waistband, ensuring a comfortable fit without any inconvenience. The leggings are made with high-quality material, making them long-lasting and stretchable for added durability and flexibility.
Fabric: 96% Super Combed Premium Cotton and 4% Spandex
Colors: White, blue, black, pink, etc.
Occasion: Lux Lyra leggings are great for casual wear, and everyday outfits (especially for Indian weather). Perfect during working out, dating, or even during vacations and holidays.
Pair with: Tunic, long Kurta, short Kurta, knee and calf-length dresses, etc
Pros:
- Comfortable, breathable, and lightweight
- Best for Indian weather
- Absorbs sweat
- Can be worn with any kind of top half
- Multiple colors available
- Suitable for different occasions
#5 Happy Sailed Women Floral Print Boho Maxi Skirt Elastic High Waist Pleated Ruffle Flowy Long Skirts
Be ready to feel like a queen in these printed long skirts! This flared maxi skirt has a bohemian print and patchwork design. It has a high waist and pockets. The flowing silhouette and ankle-length design provide an elegant and feminine touch, making it suitable for both casual and formal occasions. Pair it with a blouse or top to create a timeless and fashionable ensemble.
Fabric: 100% Polyester
Colors: White, blue, black, pink, yellow, etc.
Occasion: Happy Sailed women’s long skirt is a versatile garment. It can be effortlessly worn during summer, beach vacations, romantic dates, traveling, party nights, and as stylish daily wear.
Pair with: Top (simple camisole, cropped solid top, tank top), solid shirts, solid short Kurta, long Kurta, etc.
Pros:
- Comfortable, breathable, and lightweight
- Touch of elegance
- Can be worn with any kind of top half
- Many color options available
- May wear it daily
Dresses
Still curious about how to dress in India as a female tourist? Don’t want to buy the top and bottom halves separately? Do you like wearing dresses? Well, have a look at my favorites for dresses. These dresses are elegant yet stylish, comfy, and perfect for Indian weather.
#1 Versear Women Loose Cotton Linen Dress Print Boho Swing House Dress with Pockets
It’s difficult to resist buying elegant pieces, right? The swing house dress with pockets is perfect. This is the outfit for you if you enjoy wearing clothes that are both comfy and elegant. This is suitable for all kinds of occasions. Moreover, this loose cotton dress allows for better air circulation and breathability, helping to keep you cool and comfortable in the heat.
Fabric: Cotton linen (65% Rayon and 35% Cotton)
Colors: Blue, white, multicolored and so many other color options.
Ocassion: The swing house dress is versatile and appropriate for various occasions. Occasions such as travel, parties, beach outings, casual hangouts, and comfortable home wear.
Pros:
- Breathable, lightweight, and elegant
- Made of Cotton
- Can work for multiple occasions
- Cultural appropriateness for India
- Easy to care for
#2 Roylamp Crop Basic Top Cropped Wide Leg Pants Jumpsuits
I really like this one! Usually, for ladies wearing a jumpsuit provides the benefits of convenience, versatility, comfort, style, and individuality. Jumpsuits are a popular and fashionable choice for various occasions. The Roylamp jumpsuit has a round neck, is sleeveless, is solid, is breathable, and what not!?
Fabric: 100% Polyester
Colors: This jumpsuit comes in a plethora of colors. You’ll find it difficult to resist the colors of this outfit.
Occasion: This two-piece women’s outfit is suitable for both regular and special events. Regular events like vacations, weekends, family gatherings, casual sightseeing, everyday wear, and socializing. Works for special events such as summer parties, wedding guests, and birthday parties.
Pros:
- Thin and lightweight
- Trendy and stylish
- Sleeveless top is perfect for summer
- Easy outfit choice
- Multiple color options available
#3 Riviera Sun Tunic Dresses for Women
Isn’t it tough to resist purchasing attractive pieces? In this embroidered tunic dress, exude effortless elegance under the sun for a beautiful and casual look. It has a broad scoop neckline, accentuated by brass-colored buttons, loose long sleeves, and lovely swirly embroidered designs. This dress finds the right mix between sweet and sassy, providing a feminine touch to your wardrobe.
Fabric: 100% Rayon
Colors: Multiple colors are available. Examples are Coral, white, blue, black, etc.
Occasion: Riviera Sun Tunic Dress doesn’t select occasions. It is made to work everywhere you go! Wear it for beach vacations. Pair it with leggings and attend an Indian function. Wear jeans and go shopping.
Pros:
- Comfy and lightweight
- Gives out Indianvibes
- Elegant
- Can be paired with bottom halves
- Works for all occasions (all)
- Features Indian embroidery
#4 Floerns Women’s Summer Floral Embroidery Dress Ruffle Sleeve Round Neck Smock Short Dress
Ready to explore some of the best beaches in India? Yes, you guessed it correctly: India’s Goa. The dress features embroidery on the top half. The bottom portion of the dress is flared to make you appear joyful 😉
Fabric: Cotton
Colors: Blue, black, white, and many more.
Occasion: Floerns Women’s Dress will work for casual outings, parties and nightclubs, beach vacations, honeymoons, festivals with modern themes, etc.
Pros:
- Trendy and modern style
- Comfy and lightweight
- Perfect for summer and beaches
- Can be paired with different footwear
- May wear it outside India
#5 Dreamangel Fashion Women’s Party Wear Pure Cotton Kurta And Palazzo With Dupatta
Yes! Yes, I know this one is a bit heavy. It never hurts to look pretty and have some perfect pictures ;). Traditional Indian wears have a unique style, shine and look. The top half is “Kurta” and the bottom one is “Palazzo”. Kurta is loose-fitting, calf-length and Palazzo provides comfort and a trendy look. As you can see in the photo, the set also includes a dupatta.
Fabric: 100% Cotton
Colors: Blue, and pink.
Occasion: First of all, it works best for photoshoots in historical locations. You can also wear it for festivals and religious ceremonies, weddings and engagement parties, and family gatherings. May consider it for formal and semi-formal events, and casual outings.
Pros:
- Perfect for photoshoots
- Timeless elegance
- Traditional Indian wear
- Perfect for special events
- Best gift your mother, sister, and others
#6 Ladyline Rayon Embroidered Mirror Work Salwar Kameez Suit Patiala Indian Women Dress
Traditional Indian wear is incomplete without Salwar Suit. The top half is “kameez” and the bottom half is “salwar”. The scarf or stole is a “dupatta”. Kameez is rich rayon, plain, with embroidery and mirror work on the front. The bottom is santoon plain, with embroidery, Patiala style. Dupatta is chiffon in a matching shaded combination.
Fabric: 100% Rayon
Colors: Beige, sea green, blush, etc.
Occasion: Indians wear Salwar suit suits at all kinds of events. You can wear it while traveling, at festivals, at evening functions, etc.
Pros:
- Traditional Indian wear
- Cultural significance
- Comfortable, and lightweight
- Perfect for photoshoots
- Full sleeves protect from sun exposure
Guys, I hope you like the product options, colors, and quality that I suggested! How To Dress In India As A Female Tourist? In the end, I will remind you that it’s your choice. You know the answer to this question better than anyone else. Please let me know if you want me to write about anything else 😀
Read FAQs
Can females wear shorts in India?
Both men and women wear shorts in Indian cities, beaches and other tourist sites. But in villages, towns and other small area where people are not used to "style", or "fashion" kindly avoid. You will feel uncomfortable and get plenty of stares.
What should you wear to India?
You can wear whatever you want. No one will stop from wearing anything you want in India. But in villages, towns and other small area where people are not used to "style", or "fashion". In these areas, I will advice you to wear less revealing clothes. You will feel uncomfortable and get plenty of stares.
Some popular suggestions for how to dress in India as a female tourist are:
Top half: Camisole, Blouse, Cropped top, t-shirt, Kurta, etc.
Bottom half: Jeans, wide leg pants, shorts, leggings, harem pants, long skirts, etc.
Dresses: Jumpsuit, loose house dress, Knee or calf length dresses, Salwar suit, Kurta with palazzo, etc.
Should I buy Indian clothes for travel in India?
Well, it depends. If you are thinking, you can wear only Indian clothes in India then NO. If you really like Indian wear, which you will, then YES.
Honestly, even if you do not intend to purchase, you will like Indian clothing. You will be unable to resist the vibrant, wonderfully designed traditional Indian wear.
What Swimwear is appropriate in India?
On touristy beaches (like in Goa & Kerala) and at resorts and luxury hotels, bikinis are just fine. A shrug is handy to cover up a bit while walking up and down the beach – and make sure to cover up as soon as you leave the beach/pool. In rural areas and for swimming in rivers & waterfalls you may feel more comfortable doing as the locals do and swimming in shorts and t-shirt.
Some suggestions for cute swimsuits are:
- Cupshe Women's One Piece Swimsuit Sexy Black Cutout Scallop Trim Bathing Suit
- Zaful Women Keyhole Bandeau Tankini With Removable Straps, High Waisted Padded Bathing Suit Two Pieces Swimsuit
- MakeMeChic Women's Two Piece Outfit Summer Cami Crop Top with Shorts
Shrug suggestion:
How can I look stylish in Indian wear?
Indian ethnic wear is known for its vibrancy, shine, and beauty. To look stylish, it is advisable to pair simple or elegant clothes with heavy jewelry. Conversely, if your outfit is already detailed, it is best to opt for moderate jewelry to avoid looking overly styled.
Choosing dark-colored clothes and coordinating footwear and accessories can enhance your stylish appearance in Indian wear. Properly styling your hair and using hair accessories will further sweeten your overall look.
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I absolutely love your style suggestions for dressing in India as a female tourist! The way you’ve explained the cultural context and provided a variety of options for tops, bottoms, and dresses is fantastic. Keep up the great work!
Thank you so much for taking the time to read this travel blog post and for leaving such a thoughtful comment!