Pakistani suits

Shalwar kameez, salwar suit or Pakistani suit

Shagufta is Pakistani, so she calls these shalwar kameez or simply suits, while most of her buyers are Indian and look for salwar suits. It is the same outfit: a kameez (the long shirt), trousers and often a dupatta. This section covers 3-piece suits with a dupatta, 2-piece suits and co-ord sets, a lawn suit with a farshi shalwar (wide trousers that brush the floor), a linen suit with a rounded hem, and floor-length maxi dresses in Doria lawn and khaddar.

Fabrics for every season

Lawn is the Pakistani summer staple: a fine, light cotton that stays cool in July heat. You will find airjet lawn, Doria lawn and branded lawn suits here, plus soft cotton suits with Monar dupattas. For the cold months, reach for khaddar, a thicker and heavier cotton; the branded khaddar pieces include a Bin Saeed 2-piece maxi dress. Linen sits in between, and silk, katan silk, georgette and chiffon are kept for evenings, dawats and weddings.

Sizes and measurements

Pakistani size labels are not standard, and a medium from one maker can be an inch or two away from a medium from another. So go by the inches rather than the letter. Most listings give the garment's chest, hips and length: lay a kameez that fits you flat, measure it the same way and compare. The size guide walks through it step by step. Suits here run from about 34 to 50 inches at the chest, and the maxi dresses are around 50 inches long.

Ordering a suit

Every suit is new, some branded and some non-branded. When you find one you like, tap Order on WhatsApp and the message to Shagufta is already written with the suit, its price and its link. Buying a suit and a kurti, or two suits? Add them to your bag and send the list in one message. She confirms the shipping cost before anything is sent, and you agree on payment with her then. If you want to see how a suit drapes before you decide, ask her for a video or a few extra photos.