How to mix cultural heritage and modern fashion in your sewing projects 

With design, we have the freedom to blend traditional elements with more modern and contemporary cuts, fabrics and finishes. This results in outfits that feel meaningful, unique and stylish. 

Here is how we can mix cultural heritage and modern fashion in our sewing projects 

Start with traditional sewing patterns such as the Shalwar Kameez, abayas or even a Sari. Use these patterns as your foundation. Once you have the basic structure you will be able to adapt and design around the trends whilst staying traditional. 

For example you can change neckline, sleeve length, length of kameez to make it more modern.

Play with fabrics and textures: Cultural clothing often use specific fabrics like silk, brocade or cotton. To modernise them we can use these fabrics in small areas, like a brocade pocket on an abaya or a silk patchwork on a denim jacket. Also, traditional abaya made up in a crisp linen would feel chic, modern and cool for everyday wear, especially in summer.

Experiment with colour and prints: Cultural clothing is often known for bold colours and rich embroidery. There is no need to abandon that. We can use the colours and embroidery in subtle ways if desired, and of course we can go completely BOLD if we want too. 

For example, a vibrant dupatta paired with a plain Kameez or a subtle embroidery on a plain maxi dress. This merges both worlds beautifully.

Update the details: Small changes on your Shalwar Kameez can make a big difference - swap Churidaars with straight leg trousers or flare trousers, use piping or lace on hems and try adding different sleeves like bishop, or balloon or even layered sleeve

Learning how to mix cultural heritage and modern fashion in your sewing projects is about balance. You don’t have to give up tradition, instead you can celebrate it by combining the craftsmanship of cultural garments with the simplicity of modern trends. With each stitch you are making clothes that are uniquely yours.

If you want to learn how to make your own Shalwar Kameez or other cultural garments like Churidaar, designer suits, collars, linings, at your own pace without any pressure, and with a like-minded community of sewers, then explore our online courses.