I have a very deep respect and admiration for Indian culture and have always especially admired the beauty of saris/sarees. I really want to get one to wear for some formal occasions/dances, but I'm worried that I will offend someone by wearing it because I have no Indian heritage whatsoever.
2007-03-14 16:12:51 · 16 answers · asked by Claire 3 in Society & Culture ➔ Etiquette
Lots of people love saris and the accessories that go along with that type of dress. It's completely normal for you to wear them, and would not be offensive in any way. I had an Indian friend in school and her mother taught all of us how to wrap and wear saris, and even gave us us pieces to wrap our own saris.
If I were going to do it today (that was several years ago!), I'd definitely investigate to see how to wrap again. I know it's not something you just figure out, and it really looks best when you wrap it well. If you find a shop that sells them, they can probably advise you on how to wear them. Even an online site would probably have directions.
If you don't feel comfortable going full-on in your community, there are lots of ways to incorporate that look into your other clothing. You can use sari fabric to make a wrap skirt or fashion a clever top. You could start out with brightly colored sari-type scarves if you're especially timid. You can look for these sort of fusion ideas by researching about Bollywood fashion on the internet.
Have fun! :)
2007-03-14 17:32:10 · answer #1 · answered by blueblue 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I am a non-indian but I have worn sari's to parties and the indians in attendance have always thought it was really neat and they were ever-so-proud/eager to offer tips on how to make it easier to wear, etc. They go out of their way to say something. More than anything I think the people at the stores that sell them are suprised to see you but also eager to help you learn. Think about it, if you were in a foreign country and someone native came to an event wearing a I LOVE THE USA t-shirt - how would you feel? Thats how others feel when you do embrase THEIR heritage!
2007-03-15 01:01:27 · answer #2 · answered by Esmeralda 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I can bet upon it that no indian would be offended if you wore a saree infact they would be happy that ppl around the world respect the culture ....Saree does bring out the beauty of a lady....Its gr8 that u have such a admiration for indian culture....east n west have different ways and if u r able 2 c the beauty of each others culture .....the world is sure geetinga much beautiful place 2 live in:-)
2007-03-14 23:30:38 · answer #3 · answered by unicorn 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
No, it is not offensive. To tell you the truth, the Indian community would probably appreciate you embracing their culture. Their saris are very beautiful, just make sure you get someone to help you put it on as it could be very difficult. I am not Indian, but I enjoy wearing salwar kameez. All the best and God Bless!!
2007-03-14 23:23:38 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
Not at all. Frankly, it would be pretty damned hot - especially if you wear that tight low cut belly shirt-like garment that they wear instead of a bra underneath a sari. There were a lot of Indians in the neighborhood I grew up in and my mom's best friend always wore a sari - I always thought it was a beautiful garment on a woman and females look amazing in saris.
2007-03-14 23:40:06 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
Since it has no religious connotation, wearing a sari should be fine, but we have to be cautious when wearing the traditional clothing of a different culture. We might be wearing it inappropriately and sending misleading messages. For example, the patterned, bright-orange Indian silk scarves that many European and American women like to wear are actually Hindu prayer scarves and the patterns words from prayers. Seeing them worn by non-Hindus might be upsetting to some Hindus.
Anyway, you might want to read up on the many different styles of draping the sari.
http://www.massala.com/sari.htm
2007-03-14 23:42:52 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
No I think its is very admirable that you are interested and like a different culture other than your own. I am hispanic and have indian friends and I went to one of their weddings and i wore a sari. Thye just have to pin it for you properly but they dont take offense to it. Good Luck!
2007-03-15 00:46:55 · answer #7 · answered by amor_dove 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's a lovely idea. As somebody said up top - make sure you wear it correctly though and walk in grace and style as Indian Woman do when they wear their beautiful saris.
2007-03-15 03:58:40 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
On the conrtary, i think it should make indians proud instead of offended that a non-indian appreciates their cultural attire.
2007-03-14 23:20:38 · answer #9 · answered by Bella 2 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I wear full chief head dress and I have no Indian in me what so ever. I feel I'm very respectful of their beliefs.
Signed,
Chief Typing Eagle
2007-03-15 01:32:00 · answer #10 · answered by Gator fan 483 2 · 0⤊ 2⤋