Three pants, three cuts: how a churidar, a salwar and a patiala differ, and what that means for the pant farma you choose.
When you order a chudi, the pant decides how the whole outfit hangs. Churidar, salwar and patiala are often used as if they were one garment. They are three different cuts, and each needs a different pant farma.
Churidar
A churidar fits closely along the leg and is cut longer than the leg itself, so the extra length gathers in folds at the ankle. It needs a fabric with some give, and accurate measurements, because a close fit shows every error.
Salwar
A salwar is looser at the top, usually pleated at the waist, and tapers towards the ankle. It is more forgiving of small measurement errors, which is why it is a common first pant to cut.
Patiala
A patiala is the fullest of the three, with deep pleats that use a great deal of fabric. The farma is wide, so plan the cloth before you buy it.
Choosing between them
- Want a close, neat line? Churidar.
- Want comfort and an easy cut? Salwar.
- Want a full, festive look? Patiala.
Match the pant to the top
The top, the pant and the flair have to agree with each other. See the chudi cutting farma guide for how our custom-fit chudi patterns are drafted, and browse all styles on the chudi cutting farma page.
Frequently asked questions
Which pant is easiest for a beginner?
A salwar, because it is looser and forgives small errors.
Which pant needs the most fabric?
A patiala.