Women
 

Keeping up with the historical heritage and influence of several kingdoms, Manipuri women have several traditional attires worn on momentous occasions and festivals. The first mention of such a garment goes to innaphi, which is nothing but a shawl wrapped around the body. A similar piece of fabric, wrapped around the bottom part as a skirt, is the phanek- also known as, sarong. The sarong has been around for centuries and has become a prominent part of the current fashion scenario, as well – where now, it is mostly referred to as a type of wrap skirt. A popular variant of the phanek is called, Mayek Naibi worn mainly by the women of Meiti society; This is a significant part of Manipuri tradition. Traditional fabrics used to make the innaphis and sarongs, are handwoven cottons. These are known for the broad borders at the hem of the fabric, which is conventionally embroidered with motifs inspired by Manipuri folktales.  

The “potloi”- meaning final product is the most prominent Manipuri garment, worn by the brides on their wedding day. This just might be a fascinating outfit that has been a part of Manipuri tradition, since the 1700s; this wide skirt made of thick fabric looks like a cylinder and is worn by dancers while performing the traditional Rasa Leela Dance. 

Men

It is well known that the single piece of unstitched garment- a “dhoti” – is India's single most popular traditional menswear. In different regions, small or big, variants of the dhoti can be seen. So is the case in Manipur, where the men resort to dhotis as customary traditional, casual, and formal wear. A plain white dhoti, generally four meters long is wrapped around the bottom half of the body and is worn with a classic pagri or, turban (worn on the head). A jacket is also a widely preferred addition to this outfit.

An auspicious piece of traditional attire for Manipuri men, is the “Khamen Chapta”. This is also a type of dhoti or, skirt; a crucial part of Manipuri culture, having its roots dating back to the historic times of the earliest ruling Kings. In ancient times, this piece of loincloth was mainly worn by the royals or, people of the highest societal positions. The Kings even gifted these to those poets, singers, dancers or artists whose talents impressed them. 

The importance of jewels in this state of India, begins with the literal translation of its name- Manipur, which means “Land of Gems”. According to ancient tales and texts, this place was previously known as Subarna Bhu, meaning “land of gold” and was a prime location for gold exports. So, naturally, gold jewellery plays a vital role in Manipuri customs. A necklace with strands of beads set in gold, known as Likchow or, kantha is the most prominent piece of jewellery. Likhsoi and Khownappi are the other popular ornaments worn by women. The thick, gold neck ornament, called “Heibi Mapal” is another prominent piece of traditional ornamentation. 

Manipuri jewellery is truly one of a kind, and the traditional pieces can be made only by the goldsmiths and artisans of Manipur itself. Other than gold, silver and brass metals are also widely used, and because of the influence of tribes, the use of various beads is prevalent.