The sharara kurta set traces its origin back to Yemen with the Hamedan tribes. It traveled to India during the Mughal reign in the 16th century. From being the traditional wear of Lebanese women, the sharara became a part of the cultural clothing of Muslim women in the country.  Socio-political icons 

like Fatima Jinnah and Begum Rana Liaquat Ali made a case for its royal statement on a global scale in the early 20th century. Indian cinema also contributed with the rising popularity of the sharara starting from the 70s. 

The sharara ensemble is typically reserved for festive celebrations and weddings. The North Indian brides have been choosing the royal ensemble for their nuptials. The foray of Shararas into bridal couture has also been championed by designers of India showcasing its varied iterations. Indian 

designers are fusing new-age interpretations with sharara ensembles for a trendy appeal. The fusion hybrids of shararas are defined with drapes, lighter fabrics and contemporary cuts. 

Sharara and gharara are the two variations of this three-piece royal-inspired ensemble. While the gharara is fitted at the knee and flared at the bottom, the sharara is fully flared from the waistline. The 

gharara also has a variation with a tiered flare and the sharara has also been modified as a palazzo by modern designers. 

Shararas went from being the royal attire in the Mughal era to winning the favourite spot in the festive wardrobe. Embroideries like zari, sequins and rhinestones rendered on the sharara ensemble made it popular amongst the Pakistani and Muslim women. The royal ensemble was showcased on the centrestage with various Bollywood songs that depict wedding celebrations. At the present age, the 

sharara is reprised with statement blouses replacing the classic kurta. It has also been paired with bustiers, crop tops, flowy jackets and cape to adapt with the modern sensibilities.  

Discover an eclectic range of old-world shararas and their trendy interpretations at Pernia's Pop-Up Shop. From bohemian drama by Payal Singhal to the understated elegance of Anita Dongre, Ridhima Bhasin’s contemporary spin to shararas with hybrid silhouettes and Mahima Mahajan’s resort ready styles - pick your favourites. Tarun Tahiliani also offers an opulent take on the sharara ensemble for brides-to-be. 

You can also go for lightweight printed shararas and anarkalis that are perfect for year-round festivities. Vvani by Vani Vats renders the ensemble with dazzling embellishments and voluminous cuts for limelight ready looks. Count on light layering capes to upgrade the statement of any conservatively cut sharara.