Trousers & Shalwars

Which cut suits you: shalwar, trouser, palazzo or culottes

Each cut gives a different shape, so choose by the kameez you plan to wear.

• Shalwar: loose through the hip, tapering at the ankle, traditional and comfortable.
• Straight trousers: slim and neat, a safe match for most kurtas.
• Cigarette trousers: fitted and ankle-length, good with long, flared kameez.
• Palazzos: wide-leg and breezy, a good match for short and fitted tops.
• Culottes: wide and cropped, easy to wear in heat.
• Tights and churidar: close-fitting, suit long and flared kurtas.

A simple rule helps: balance volume. A wide bottom suits a slim top, and a slim bottom suits a flared top. Our kurtas page shows lengths and cuts that pair well with each bottom. If you want a complete matched outfit instead, see co-ords.

Think about comfort as well as looks. Shalwars and palazzos move easily and suit long days, while fitted trousers and tights look sharper but need exact sizing. If you are unsure, start with a straight trouser in a neutral colour, which works with most kurtas.

Measuring waist, rise and length

Fit problems usually come from three numbers: waist, rise and length. Measure your natural waist and hip, then compare them with the size chart on the brand's own site. For length, measure from your waist to the ankle and note whether the listing gives a length to the ankle or to the floor.

Elastic waists forgive small differences and suit shalwars and palazzos. Fitted or zip-up waists need exact measurements. The rise is the distance from waist to crotch: a high rise sits at the waist, while a low rise sits on the hip. Check the photos and the listing, since brands describe it differently.

Trousers that are too long drag and wear at the hem, and ones that are too short look unfinished. Compare the listed length with your height or with a pair that already fits you well. If you are between sizes, the larger one is easier to alter than the smaller one. Use our size guide if you are unsure how to measure.

Fabric, comfort and care

Cotton and lawn-type fabrics breathe and suit summer. Cambric is a little firmer and neat for work. Silk-type and satin-look fabrics look dressier and suit events, but they can cling. Check the fibre content, since two trousers with the same name can feel very different.

For winter, a thicker cotton or a warm fabric is comfortable, and you can wear tights underneath. If a bottom is sheer or light in colour, check whether it is lined. Plain colours in black, navy, white and beige are the most reusable.

Wash in cool water, and wash dark bottoms separately the first few times. Dry in the shade, and iron while slightly damp to keep creases sharp on straight trousers. Cotton can shrink slightly in the first wash, so allow a little length. Keep elastic waists away from hot water and tumble drying, and choose a bottom close in weight to your shirt so the outfit hangs evenly.

How trousers and shalwars are priced

The price of trousers and shalwars depends on the fabric, cut, embellishment and brand. A plain cotton shalwar usually costs less than a trouser with lace, embroidery or a premium fabric.

A matching bottom bought separately can cost less than a whole new suit, which makes it a good way to extend an outfit you like. Compare the fabric, length and size across brands, and check the colour in daylight photos where shown. Check whether a listing is for one bottom or a pair, and compare the fabric weight with similar listings before you decide. The sale page lists discounted pieces, and our dupattas page helps you finish the outfit with the right dupatta.