Of particular interest to me this trip is what I'm going to wear. It's the hot season in India, with temperatures hovering in the high 30's and low 40's (In degrees celsius. That's the high 90's and low 100's if you're in degrees fahrenheit.) In other words, HOT.
If you do a bit of reading, it is strongly suggested that women dress modestly. India is a socially conservative country and it pays to follow suggested guidelines in this regard:
"Women who dress and act modestly are much more highly regarded than those who flout the cultural norms, and they are safer from sexual harassment. On the other hand, wearing clothing that is indecent by Indian standards is insulting to the culture, and it also gives men the idea that you are available for sexual favors to anyone who wants you-even if your behavior emphatically indicates the opposite." (Enjoying India)
Shoulders should be covered, and shorts and skirts should cover the knees (at a minimum, if you're outside of major cities, legs should be fully covered). It is also suggested that women avoid any clothing that is tight fitting or low cut.
So I've been popping into travel and outdoor activity stores to see what options they have that might help. I've been looking for moisture wicking materials that will help me stay cool while still covering me up as well as fabrics that afford sun protection. (Wicking fabrics pull moisture from the body to the exterior of the fabric to allow it to evaporate.) I've found some loose, light pants that should work and will pick up a few tunic-style tops as well.
I also plan on buying clothes there. Some of the usual suggestions for local clothes are:
- Kurta or Kurti - a long, loose tunic made in various fabrics
- Churidar - leggings the gather and bunch at the ankles worn with a kurta
- Salwar - loose pants the get tighter at the ankle. When worn with a tunic it's called a salwar kameez.
There's also sari's, but take it from me, you need an expert to help wrap you in them, so they're not practical for us non-Indians. That said, if you ever get a chance to wear one I swear there is no more elegant clothing! I've worn a few to weddings of friends and have rarely felt so beautiful!