Are you planning a trip to the beautiful country of Pakistan and can not decide on what to pack? This dressing ideas guide is for you.
From embroidered chiffon dresses to traditional dhotis and Kurtis, Pakistan has a diverse culture, and your specific itinerary greatly influences what to wear. You have to balance what you find comfortable with the local customs and traditions.
Before leaving, eliminate the myth from your mind that Pakistani people will force you to wear modest clothing. While the dressing is reverential, no one will shove it on you.
What People Wear in Pakistan
Pakistan is a populated country, with each region having its own customs. The diverse culture of the country varies from Shalwar Kameez to Balochi dresses to Sindhi caps and Ajraks.
As a foreigner, you may have heard that Pakistani people wear traditional clothing like shalwar kameez. However, with shifting times, there has been a lot of advancement in both women’s and men’s clothing. While in rural areas, you still have to follow the conventional attires, in metropolitan cities like Karachi, Islamabad, and Lahore, women prefer fashion fusion, and are increasingly seen wearing modern clothing like jeans or pants with mid-length tops, and maxi dresses.
How Is the Weather in Pakistan
In Pakistan, April to September are considered the hottest months. If you are visiting the country during these months, pack light clothes, but if you are planning to travel to the northern areas like Gilgit and Swat, make sure to have some warmer items in your suitcase. This is because the weather varies widely throughout the country, even in the same month.
For colder months like December and January, the temperature is chilly in the main cities, while in northern areas, it is freezing. Make sure to pack warm layers of clothes.
Dressing Ideas for Female Tourists in Pakistan
You would be surprised to hear that you do not have to wear traditional Pakistani clothes or burkas. Instead, you can dress up in whatever you want, considering the attire is modest as Pakistan is an Islamic country, and it is important to respect the local opinions. You will be surprised to see the appreciation you will get from locals for wearing traditional clothing
Jeans with local Kurtis are a popular choice among tourists. To respect the regional folklore, ensure the kurta goes below your hips to maintain conservatism. You can also opt for oversized shirts for comfort and better breathability in hotter regions.
Along the way, you can purchase clothes from local designers and shops. Pakistani traditional clothes are both practical and colorful. If you want to visit mosques, it is advisable to wear proper Islamic dress and cover your head.
Dressing Ideas for Male Tourists in Pakistan
Men have a lot of flexibility in what to wear in Pakistan. Jeans and shirts are perfectly acceptable attire. However, shorts are considered a bit offensive in smaller cities. If you are in areas like Sindh and Balochistan during summer, jeans might be a little too hot for the weather.
Pakistani men’s traditional wear is light and comfortable and is worn in most cities and areas of the country. You are not expected to wear the customary clothes, but it would be nice if you would. Something is captivating about wearing ajraks, Sindhi caps, Balochi shawls, etc. Moreover, this will allow you to try something new and share an experience with the world, especially if you are a travel blogger.
What Shoes to Pack for Pakistan
You can wear any shoes you like. However, pack sturdy shoes, as you may have to experience mountain areas. Keep some comfortable sandals and extra socks with you as well, for places with warmer weather.
What Not to Wear in Pakistan
You can wear modern clothes in Pakistan, but some reservations remain. Although no one will say anything, it is imperative to adhere to the local dress code. Do not wear see-through, short, revealing, or seductive clothes. These dresses are not acceptable even in liberal cities like Islamabad and Karachi.
Conclusion
Pakistan is a fascinating country with different customs and traditions. While you can wear modern clothes in cities like Karachi and Islamabad, respecting the local dress codes is important. If you do not have what you need in your closet, search for Pakistani brands online and get something from their end of season sale. You may find modest Western clothes at affordable prices for the season styles you will be traveling to this country.
