dupatt

A dupatta, also spelled dupattā, is a long scarf or shawl worn by women in the Indian subcontinent as part of traditional dress. It typically measures about 2 to 2.5 meters in length and 0.6 to 1 meter in width, though sizes vary by region and style. Fabrics include cotton, silk, chiffon, georgette, and wool, with many examples featuring embroidery, sequins, zari work, block printing, or woven borders.

The dupatta is usually draped over the shoulders and around the arms, or placed over the head as a modest covering. It complements outfits such as the salwar kameez, lehenga choli, and sometimes sarees, and can function as a decorative accessory or a veil in religious or ceremonial contexts. Styling varies by occasion, region, and personal taste; wedding dupattas are often heavily embroidered and richly decorated, while daily wear versions may be plain or printed.

Culturally, the dupatta carries significance as part of traditional feminine attire in many communities in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Nepal. Draping styles and wearing norms differ across regions and communities, reflecting local customs and fashion trends. In modern fashion, the dupatta has also emerged as a versatile styling element, used in contemporary ensembles beyond traditional outfits.

Historically, the dupatta has roots in the broader practice of veiling and modest dress in the Indian subcontinent, with influences from Persian and Central Asian clothing traditions over centuries. Today it remains a common component of regional dress and a popular accessory in South Asian fashion. See also scarf and shawl.