Traditional Pakistani Clothing: Shalwar Kameez, Dupatta & More

What People Wear in Pakistan

Dress varies by region, ethnicity, and occasion, but these are nationwide staples:

• Shalwar Kameez – National dress for men & women: loose trousers (shalwar) + long tunic (kameez). Cotton, linen, silk; plain or embroidered.
• Dupatta – Long scarf/shawl worn over shoulders/head; chiffon, silk, cotton; decorative or modest.
• Kurta – Longer, looser tunic; unisex; often paired with shalwar or churidar.
• Salwar – Baggy pants (variant of shalwar); everyday wear.
• Churidaar Pajama – Tight, tapered pants for women; worn with short kurta.
• Sherwani – Men’s formal coat‑like garment; wool/silk, heavily embroidered; weddings, Eid.
• Lehenga Choli – Women’s festive ensemble: flared skirt (lehenga), fitted blouse (choli), dupatta; silk, georgette, ornate.

Urban fashion blends these with Western styles; rural areas retain more traditional daily wear.