Salwar Kameez - Your Complete Guide to Timeless South Asian Elegance
Discover the perfect blend of tradition and modern style with versatile salwar kameez suits that flatter every body type and suit any occasion.
The salwar kameez is one of the most iconic traditional clothes of South Asia, celebrated as a complete ensemble that represents cultural identity and heritage.
The Perfect Three-Piece Ensemble That Transforms Your Ethnic Wardrobe
The Indian salwar kameez is a popular traditional attire for women and girls worldwide, typically consisting of a kameez, salwar, and dupatta. Salwar kameez is also a favored choice among Pakistani women, celebrated for its cultural significance and the wide variety of styles and intricate designs that suit different occasions. The kurti is also commonly paired with salwar or trousers for a modern ethnic look, while gowns offer an elegant option for special occasions. This versatile ensemble reflects regional variations and evolving styles, including abaya style suits known for modest, flowing silhouettes. With the convenience of online shopping, buying designer salwar kameez suits has become easier than ever.
History and Evolution of Salwar Kameez
Originating in the Mughal era, the shalwar kameez combines loose trousers (salwar), a long kurta, and a dupatta. It has evolved over centuries, adapting to different fabrics like cotton, silk, and georgette, and styles such as anarkali suits and jacket-style kurtas. Widely worn across South Asia, it remains a symbol of comfort, modesty, and elegance, suitable for daily wear and special occasions. The shalwar kameez is also widely worn by men and women in Pakistan, where it is recognized as the national dress.
Introduction to Salwar Kameez
The shalwar kameez is a timeless South Asian outfit comprising a kameez (long tunic), salwar (loose or fitted trousers), and dupatta (long scarf). Its blend of comfort, style, and cultural heritage makes it ideal for casual, formal, and festive occasions worldwide.
Types of Salwar Kameez
Salwar kameez with dupatta suits come in various styles, including Anarkali suits with flared tops, Punjabi suits with pleated salwars, Pakistani styles with elaborate detailing, palazzo suits with wide-legged pants, and jacket-style kurtas. Cotton suits are perfect for everyday wear, while designer suits suit special events, offering options for every taste and body type. Popular styles like Anarkali suits and Patiala suits are particularly loved for weddings and special celebrations.
Collection Highlights:
Anarkali & Palazzo Suits: Flowing anarkalis and breezy palazzos in premium crepe, georgette & velvet—ideal for weddings, festivals, & special gatherings
Patiala & Straight-Cut Salwars: Traditional pleated Patialas and sleek straight-cut suits with intricate Phulkari, chikankari, and zari detailing
Punjabi suits feature short, playful kameez tops and pleated salwars. Dhoti pant suits are an Indo-Western option characterized by their lightweight and vibrant designs, offering a unique and stylish alternative to traditional salwar styles.
Lehenga salwar suits combine flowing lehenga skirts with kameez tops.
Jacket-style salwar kameez incorporates a stylish jacket over the outfit. Different styles feature a variety of sleeve designs, such as full sleeves, three-quarter sleeves, and regular sleeves, which enhance the overall look of the outfit.
Sharara suits have dramatic, flared bottoms and intricate detailing. These suits are characterized by flared skirt-like pants, medium-length tops, and elegant dupattas, making them a popular choice for festive occasions and weddings.
Salwar Kameez can be purchased online from various international retailers like RAAS. Andaaz Fashion offers free shipping across the USA for salwar kameez orders, making it convenient for customers to access traditional attire. Andaaz Fashion has thousands of happy customers worldwide purchasing salwar kameez, reflecting its popularity and customer satisfaction.
RAAS offers custom-sized Salwar Kameez for customers in the USA. The collection at Andaaz Fashion includes plus-size options in their salwar kameez range, accommodating a variety of body shapes and ensuring inclusivity in traditional fashion.
Fabric Choices: Breathable cotton for everyday; luxe silk blends and velvet for grand occasions
Chiffon is soft, sheer, and flowy, ideal for party wear and summer outfits.
Cotton is breathable and comfortable, making it ideal for daily and office wear, especially in readymade saree blouses.
Fabrics like velvet are rich and warm, best suited for winter weddings and festive wear.
Crepe has a slightly textured, structured look, making it great for semi-formal attire.
Color Story: Popular hues include dark green, navy blue, dusty pink, teal, gold, light blue—perfect for festive ensembles
Salwar Kameez:
Originating from Central Asia and popularized by the Mughals in the 16th century, the salwar kameez is South Asia’s versatile national attire. The shalwar kameez was introduced to South Asia by arriving Muslims in the 13th century, evolving over time to reflect regional and cultural diversity.
Styles at Raas: For assistance in finding your perfect fit, consult our Raas Size Guide.
Anarkali Suits: Full-length, flared gowns that exude festive grace
Palazzo Suits: Wide-legged trousers paired with tunics for effortless elegance
Indian clothing: Patiala Suits: Deep pleats and traditional Phulkari embroidery from Punjab. See what our customers say about their experiences with our Patiala suits.
Straight-Cut & Pant Suits: Sleek lines and table-top styling for professional wear by Raas
Jacket Suits: Contemporary jacket suits add a fashionable, layered twist to traditional attire, perfect for special occasions. Trouser suits consist of straight-cut pants, embroidered kurtas, and matching dupattas, bringing a modern vibe to traditional attire.
Sharara Suits: Bold and flared sharara suits are a festive favorite for weddings and celebrations.
Long Kurti: The long kurti is a versatile and stylish choice, easily dressed up for formal events or worn casually.
Fabric Insights:
Cotton & Silk: Ideal for daily wear and sunshine seasons
Georgette, Chiffon & Crepe: Lightweight, flowy looks for evening functions
Velvet & Heavy Silk: Rich textures for winter weddings and festive events
Perfect Fit:
Detailed size guides, made-to-ship convenience, and USA-based shipping & returns
Craftsmanship:
Masterful needlework—hand embroidery, gold embellishments, gota, and mirrorwork for that authentic Desi touch
Styling Tips & Inspiration: Drape the dupatta diagonally for casual flair or over the shoulder for formal appeal. Accessorize with juttis for tradition or block heels for Western fusion. Accent with statement jewelry—chandelier earrings or bangles—to enhance embroidery detail. Experiment with hairstyles that complement the neckline of the shalwar kameez, ensuring a cohesive and polished look. For exclusive savings on your next shalwar kameez purchase, don't forget to check out our COUPON Raas The Global Desi Coupon.
Drape the dupatta diagonally for casual flair or over the shoulder for formal appeal
Accessorize with juttis for tradition or block heels for Western fusion
Accent with statement jewelry—chandelier earrings or bangles—to enhance embroidery detail on your lehenga choli
Shopping with Confidence:
✓ Free shipping on U.S. orders over $149
✓ 15-day hassle-free returns (original condition)
✓ Fit assistance & alteration support
✓ Secure Shopify checkout, supporting credit/debit & PayPal
This traditional Indian women’s attire is often viewed as everyday wear rather than high-end fashion, valued for its practicality and versatility. However, a stunning designer salwar kameez epitomizes ethnic elegance, highlighting delicate feminine qualities that formal Western clothing often lacks. RAAS honors tradition by promoting the salwar kameez as a leading choice for women’s fashion in India, especially when adorned with intricate embroidery, making it perfect for formal events and festive celebrations.
Originating from South Asia, the salwar kameez has a vibrant history, especially in India and Pakistan. The traditional Punjabi suit includes loose-fitting trousers (salwar), a short tunic (kameez), and a long scarf (dupatta). Over time, modern designer salwar kameez blends style and functionality, influencing national and international fashion. Its popularity has spread to various regions, including Pakistan and India, where it is commonly adopted as regional attire. Traditional Pakistani and Balochi salwar kameez often feature long sleeves as part of their customary clothing style.
RAAS’s collection features stylish suits combining Indian and Western elements, including anarkali gowns, pant-style anarkalis, straight-cut suits, palazzo styles, and jacket-style velvet anarkalis. Each piece showcases masterful craftsmanship and detailed embroidery, suitable for formal wear and luxurious parties. The collection offers formal palazzo suits, pant suits, churidars, ethnic Punjabi suits, Pakistani salwar kameez, and anarkali suits in colors like dark green, gold, navy blue, and pink, ideal for weddings and festive occasions.
You can buy salwar kameez online at raastheglobaldesi.com, which provides a wide range of traditional and contemporary styles, including patiala and straight-cut suits, with convenient shipping to the USA. This versatile outfit combines comfort and style, perfect for weddings, casual gatherings, and daily wear.
Key points:
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Salwar kameez originated in Central Asia and was popularized in South Asia by the Mughals in the 16th century.
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Over 25 styles exist, including Patiala, Palazzo, and Anarkali suits, blending tradition with modern fashion.
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Popular fabrics include cotton, silk, georgette, chiffon, crepe, and velvet, chosen based on occasion and comfort.
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Styling tips include choosing the right fabric, accessorizing with jewelry and footwear, layering with dupattas or jackets, and ensuring a good fit.
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Salwar kameez suits are suitable for various occasions, from everyday wear to weddings and festivals.
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Online shopping offers convenience with size guides, free shipping, and a wide selection.
The salwar kameez remains a versatile, elegant, and culturally significant attire embraced worldwide.
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Cultural Connection – Embrace rich fabrics, traditional embroidery techniques, and centuries-old craftsmanship that connect you to South Asian heritage
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Climate Comfort – Breathable cotton salwar kameez and flowing silhouettes provide comfort in warm weather while maintaining modesty
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Modern Adaptability – Contemporary designers create fusion styles that blend traditional elements with current fashion trends, perfect for today’s woman
With salwar kameez online shopping offering endless options, you can build a wardrobe that honors tradition while expressing your personal style.
How to Style Your Designer Salwar Kameez
Transform your salwar suit from basic to breathtaking with these three essential styling steps:
Step 1: Choose Your Silhouette Select the right kameez length and salwar style for your body type and occasion. A knee length kurta with straight cut pants works perfectly for office wear, while a long frock style top with palazzo suits creates an elegant evening look. For a chic, contemporary style, try pairing a kurti with palazzo pants or a salwar. Choosing styles based on body types (hourglass, pear, apple, inverted triangle, rectangle) can further enhance appearance and comfort.
Step 2: Match to Your Occasion Pick fabrics and embellishments that suit your event. Cotton salwar kameez works beautifully for daily wear, while georgette or silk suits with rich fabrics elevate your look for special occasions and festivals. For festive or party wear, opt for an embroidered kurta featuring intricate designs to add a touch of elegance.
Step 3: Complete the Ensemble Style your matching dupatta - drape it traditionally over both shoulders for formal events, or wear it casually over one shoulder for a modern touch. Add appropriate jewelry, footwear, and makeup to complete your transformation. Select minimalistic accessories for a sophisticated party look with salwar kameez, ensuring a balanced and elegant appearance.
What Makes Different Salwar Kameez Styles Unique?
Understanding salwar kameez styles, also known as shalwar kameez, highlights this traditional dress with many regional and modern adaptations across South Asia and Central Asia. This helps you choose the perfect suit for any occasion:
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Anarkali Suits – Featuring a fitted bodice that flares into a long frock style top, anarkali suit designs create a regal silhouette perfect for weddings and celebrations
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Patiala Suits – Originating from the Punjab region, these feature voluminous pleated salwar with a straight cut kameez, embodying traditional North Indian elegance
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Palazzo Suits – Modern fusion wear combining a kurta with wide-leg pants instead of traditional loose trousers, perfect for contemporary styling
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Churidar Suits – Featuring close-fitting churidar pants resembling ankle bangles, often paired with embellished tops for a refined and elegant look
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Sharara and Gharara Suits – Flared, sharara style salwar creates dramatic silhouettes ideal for bridal wear and grand celebrations
These diverse styles are all part of the broader category of Indian suits, reflecting both cultural heritage and evolving fashion trends.
Regional Variations and Cultural Significance
The beauty of salwar kameez lies in its regional diversity, with each South Asian area contributing unique styles. This traditional attire expresses cultural heritage and identity, with the Indian salwar kameez symbolizing regional pride and adaptability.
Punjabi Suits are popular among North Indian women, featuring vibrant colors, phulkari embroidery, and fitted kameez with loose salwar kameez, reflecting Punjab’s spirited culture and making them an excellent choice for party wear.
Pakistani Styles showcase heavily embroidered designs with intricate threadwork, mirror embellishments, and modest, longer kameez.
Other regional specialties include Sindhi suits, Balochi salwar kameez—noted for their distinctive embroidery and rich textile traditions—and Kashmiri suits, each reflecting unique cultural artistry. For those interested in exploring or purchasing these traditional outfits, a best Indian clothing store online like RAAS offers a diverse selection reflecting this rich heritage.
Modern Fusion blends traditional elements with Western influences, introducing jacket-style kurtas, asymmetrical hemlines, and innovative draping for a global appeal.
Fabrics, Colors, and Embellishments Guide
Choosing the right materials elevates your salwar kameez from ordinary to extraordinary:
Traditional Fabrics: Explore more about the significance of traditional fabrics in Indian dresses and their unique charm.
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Cotton – Perfect for daily wear, offering breathability and easy maintenance
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Silk – A luxurious fabric characterized by its soft and shiny texture, perfect for formal events and special occasions
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Georgette and Crepe – Lightweight options that flow beautifully, ideal for party wears
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Chiffon – Delicate and elegant, perfect for heavily embroidered designer pieces
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Linen – A lightweight and breathable fabric, ideal for summer gatherings and casual outings
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For formal events, a gown crafted from luxurious fabrics like silk or georgette is a sophisticated and fashionable choice.
Shopping and Sizing Guide
Make informed decisions when you buy salwar kameez online or in-store:
Ready-to-Wear vs. Custom Tailoring: Ready-made suits online offer convenience and immediate availability, while custom tailoring ensures a perfect fit and personalized styling. Consider your timeline, budget, and fit preferences when deciding.
Taking Accurate Measurements: For the best fit, measure your bust, waist, hips, shoulder width, and desired lengths for both kameez and salwar. Most online retailers provide detailed size charts to help you select the right size.
Online Shopping Tips: When buying salwar kameez online, check customer reviews, return policies, and fabric details. Look for free shipping and clear photos showing embroidery and fabric texture. Many stores offer worldwide shipping, featuring a wide range of traditional and modest abaya style suits for all occasions, including tips on selecting the perfect lehenga choli blouse for your body type.
Quality Indicators: Well-made suits feature proper lining, secure embroidery work, color-fast fabrics, and finished seams. Designer salwar kameez typically showcase superior construction and attention to detail that justifies higher price points.
Budget Planning: Salwar kameez prices range from affordable daily wear options to luxury designer pieces. Build your wardrobe gradually, investing in versatile pieces that can be styled multiple ways, and ensure a perfect fit by referring to this blouse measurement guide for online shopping.
Start Your Salwar Kameez Journey Today
Ready to embrace the elegance and versatility of traditional South Asian fashion? Whether you’re shopping for your first salwar suit or adding to an established collection, the perfect ensemble awaits.
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Occasions to Wear Salwar Kameez
Salwar kameez suits are versatile ethnic wear, perfect for casual days, festive celebrations, and weddings. Comfortable cotton suits suit everyday wear, while luxurious fabrics and embroidered styles shine at special occasions. Modern options like palazzo suits and kurta with pants offer a stylish twist. Online shopping makes it easy to buy salwar kameez, with a wide range of styles to express your personal look.
Fashion Trends in Salwar Kameez
Salwar kameez styles continue to evolve with fresh designs. This season, anarkali and palazzo suits lead, offering regal elegance and modern comfort. Rich fabrics like silk, georgette, and crepe add opulence, suitable for both everyday and party wear. Jacket-style salwar kameez blends tradition with Western flair, while sharara suits remain popular for festive occasions. Buying salwar kameez online makes it easy to access the latest designer styles and update your ethnic wardrobe with elegance and style.
Everyday Wear: Effortless Comfort and Style
When it comes to everyday wear, salwar kameez suits offer unmatched comfort and timeless style. Popular across South Asia, especially in the Punjab region, they blend practicality with elegance and cultural heritage. Ideal for work, errands, or socializing, these suits keep you chic and comfortable all day.
Their versatility shines through a variety of fabrics—breathable cotton for hot days, soft georgette for sophistication, and lightweight crepe for a modern touch. Cotton suits are favored for comfort and easy care. Pair a long kurta with straight-cut pants or loose trousers and a matching dupatta for a classic look.
For added flair, palazzo suits with wide, flowing pants provide style and freedom of movement. Embroidered kurtas or subtly embellished kameez elevate everyday outfits, while jackets or shrugs add sophistication on cooler days.
Online shopping simplifies buying salwar kameez, offering a wide range of styles from simple to heavily embroidered, with free shipping and size guides to ensure a perfect fit.
Salwar kameez suits adapt to any occasion, featuring styles from straight-cut pants and long frock tops to chic palazzo suits and classic cotton sets. Whether you prefer minimalist or elegant looks, there’s a salwar suit for every woman and every day. Embrace the rich fabrics and effortless chic of salwar kameez for everyday elegance.
Salwar Suit Designs: Patterns, Motifs, and Artistry
Salwar kameez suits are more than traditional attire—they are a blend of creativity, artistry, and personal expression. Featuring a rich array of patterns, motifs, and hand-crafted details, each suit reflects cultural heritage and modern fashion. From floral and paisley designs on anarkali suits to geometric patterns on palazzo styles, these motifs tell stories rooted in regional artistry like Punjab’s phulkari, Gujarat’s mirror work, and Lucknow’s chikankari.
Embellishments such as zari, sequins, and beads highlight master craftsmanship, while luxurious fabrics like silk, georgette, crepe, and breathable cotton provide the perfect canvas. Modern styles include jacket-style and sharara silhouettes, combining tradition with contemporary flair.
Styling involves balancing embroidered or patterned pieces with simpler elements to showcase the craftsmanship. Accessible online collections offer endless mix-and-match options, making salwar kameez a versatile wardrobe staple for cultural celebrations, daily wear, and special occasions. This attire continues to embody elegance, confidence, and timeless style for women worldwide.
Cultural Impact of Salwar Kameez
The salwar kameez is more than just clothing; it embodies cultural heritage, identity, and evolving artistry for women across South Asia and beyond. Rooted in centuries of tradition, it graces everyday life and special occasions, especially among women from northern India and the Punjab region. This ensemble—comprising the kameez, salwar, and dupatta—reflects rich craftsmanship and personal expression, making it a staple for weddings, festivals, and ceremonies.
Modern designers have reimagined the salwar kameez with fresh styles, from simple cotton suits for daily wear to luxurious silk, georgette, and crepe fabrics for celebrations. Contemporary variations like palazzo suits and tailored kurta pants blend comfort with elegance, appealing to women seeking both tradition and modernity.
Thanks to online shopping, salwar kameez is now accessible worldwide, allowing women everywhere to explore and embrace this timeless attire. Fusion fashion further enhances versatility, combining traditional elements with modern cuts and accessories to suit diverse lifestyles.
Ultimately, the salwar kameez honors heritage while embracing contemporary style, symbolizing the creativity and elegance of South Asian craftsmanship. Wearing it connects you to a living tradition that continues to inspire and unite women globally.
Introduction to Traditional Attire
Cultural heritage is deeply woven into South Asian fashion, with the salwar kameez standing as a timeless symbol of elegance and tradition. This classic ensemble, known for its fluid silhouettes and delicate draping, perfectly balances comfort and style.
Over the years, the salwar kameez has evolved, blending ancestral craftsmanship with modern designs like anarkali, palazzo, and sharara styles. Whether you prefer simple cotton for everyday wear or richly embroidered pieces for special occasions, each garment tells a unique story.
Today, online collections offer beautifully crafted straight-cut suits, coordinated dupatta sets, and hand-embroidered kurtas, often with free shipping. Designers incorporate luxurious fabrics such as crepe, georgette, silk, and cotton, creating versatile options that honor tradition while embracing contemporary fashion.
No matter your style, the salwar kameez remains an essential part of refined dressing, perfect for both casual and grand occasions. Explore these elegant ensembles to find pieces that reflect your personal taste, blending cultural heritage with modern sophistication.
1. What is a Salwar Kameez?
The Salwar Kameez is a traditional three-piece outfit consisting of a tunic (kameez), loose-fitting pants (salwar), and often a dupatta (scarf). It’s a timeless South-Asian outfit known for its comfort and elegance.
2. Where did the Salwar Kameez originate?
The outfit traces back to the Mughal era and is popular across India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, with each region developing its own distinct styles and fabrics.
3. What are the different styles of Salwar Kameez?
Common styles include Anarkali suits, Patiala suits, straight-cut suits, palazzo suits, and Pakistani or Indo-Western fusion sets.
4. How to choose the right Salwar Kameez for my body type?
Select silhouettes that balance your proportions—A-line and Anarkali cuts are universally flattering; straight-cuts elongate the figure; cotton and georgette offer lightweight comfort.
5. What fabrics are best for Salwar Kameez?
Cotton and linen for daily wear; silk, velvet, chiffon, or georgette for festive occasions. Lightweight fabrics with breathable lining ensure comfort and fit.
6. Can I wear Salwar Kameez for weddings or formal events?
Yes — designer Salwar Kameez with embroidery, sequins, or zari work are perfect for weddings and festive celebrations. (Explore RAAS Designer Salwar Kameez USA Collection.)
7. Is Salwar Kameez suitable for everyday wear?
Absolutely. Simple cotton or printed styles offer comfort for daily use while retaining traditional grace. Pair with flat sandals or juttis for an effortless look.
8. What is the difference between Salwar Kameez and Churidar Suits?
A churidar features tight-fitting ankle-length pants, while a salwar is looser with a relaxed taper. Both pair with the same tunic (kameez).
9. How to care for a Salwar Kameez?
Follow fabric-specific care: gentle wash for cotton, dry-clean for silk and embroidered pieces. Store folded in muslin covers to protect embellishments.
10. Can plus-size women wear Salwar Kameez stylishly?
Yes — the Salwar Kameez flatters all body types. RAAS offers inclusive sizing and custom measurements for a tailored fit.
11. What are the latest Salwar Kameez trends in 2025?
Trending looks include pant-style bottoms, pastel tones, organza and eco-fabrics, and minimalist embroidered sets for modern women in the USA.
12. How do I measure myself for a Salwar Kameez?
Measure bust, waist, hips, and length accurately. Refer to the RAAS size guide for U.S. measurements before placing your order.
13. How can I style a Dupatta in modern ways?
Drape it across one shoulder, wear as a scarf, or belt it around the waist for a fusion look. Lighter fabrics like organza and georgette work best.
14. Are there eco-friendly Salwar Kameez options?
Yes — RAAS offers sustainable fabrics crafted by artisans through ethical production at Tanisi Clothing Pvt. Ltd. in India.
15. How to accessorize a Salwar Kameez?
Pair with traditional juttis or heels, and match earrings and bangles based on the occasion. Keep it minimal for day wear and bold for festive looks.
16. Do you offer U.S. sizing for Salwar Kameez?
Yes. RAAS provides standard U.S. sizes and custom tailoring options with fast shipping from our Chicago warehouse.
