Topis - your modern day crown
Wondering how you can glam up your look this season? Simple, top it with a topi! You will be amazed to see how exquisitely it can transform you. The sub-continent has been the hub of cultural development for centuries, of which caps, or topi, as we call them, have been the essential part of one's outfit.
From politicians to activists to actors, all have inspired us to style our appearance with these gorgeous fashion accessories. There are people who wear the typical white, crocheted round topi all-year and those who wear the fur topi with the start of winter or even the ones who wear topis just during the two Eids.
Karakul topi
I will start with the most versatile and my personal favourite. Karakul topis are decorated with a fur coating, making this best suited for winter. Wear it with a sherwani or a prince coat and you will not fail to make an impression.
This topi comes in many styles of which the most distinct being the ones made of fur. While people of any age can wear it along with a sherwani, it would better suit middle aged or older people if they wear it with a prince coat or even a sports jacket.
Himachali topi
Designed to tackle the cold weather of the Northern region (example: Himachal Pradesh) of India, this topi is a core of their roots. These come in a range of designs and colours which give you the scope of wearing them with a variety of outfits. For a traditional look, you can wear it with a panjabi and pyjama and to top it off, add a shawl to pull-off an authoritative look. People who are older can wear it with a dress shirt and suit with the addition of a silk ascot to add panache.
Fez/Tarboosh topi
Shifting our focus slightly to the west, we are introduced to a cylindrical type of topi. You may recall Aladin running across the bazaar holding on to his dear headpiece with a tassel bouncing all over the top. With its simplistic yet eye-catching velvet surface, this topi never fails to propel your look to the maximum. Wear it with a panjabi or add a Qawwali waist coat to get a unique look.
Sindhi topi
Being regarded as an essential part of the Sindhi culture, this finely embroidered headgear will sharpen your facial features. Uniquely shaped to expose your forehead, do not be afraid to opt for this slightly gaudy topi with an elaborate art work. For those of you, who want to take a bolder approach, add glass buttons; this will only accentuate your look.
Bonus Tip: Wear a Kashmiri embroidered shawl during the cold seasons to complement the topi. It will not only keep you warm this winter but will add grandeur to your look.
Dhaka topi
During the British Raj, a certain fabric which was manufactured from Dhaka and then sent to Nepal was used to weave this topi. Hence, it is called Dhaka topi. This gorgeous work of art has now become a part of Nepali culture, identity, pride and nobleness for which it is given immense importance in their traditions. Being a Bangladeshi, you can always put on this topi with style. If you want to stick to the basics, wear it with a plain white panjabi and a navy blue scarf to create a spark of contrast. For a bolder approach, wear it with a Mujib coat.
Bhashani topi
How can I talk about topis and not mention the one popularised by the revolutionary leader, Moulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhashani? His classic topi made from cane is popular all over the country. Wear it with a jubbah or a panjabi and pyjama and you have the choice to add a colourful scarf to help you stand out. You can rest assured that you will look stunning in your minimalistic attire.
Round topi
The topi which is mostly seen here, in Bangladesh, is the round topi. Covering the length and the breadth of our country, this is mostly donned by the people during religious gatherings and mostly worn with panjabi and pyjamas. This headpiece has proved to be an essential part of our nation's everyday attire, representing style along with culture. Wear it with a keffiyeh for it will not only act as a protective layer, by will look macho and cool on you.
Not only do topis symbolise confidence and style, but these add the cherry on top for the one's going bald. Do not hesitate from wearing one yourself. They enhance your look and your sartorial elegance.
Make them your signature. Do not just follow the trend, be the trend.
By Ali Sakhi Khan
Photo: Sazzad Ibne Sayed
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