Sweeping the fashion grounds

Why the internet is raging over the farshi shalwar again

With 2025’s first Eid less than a month away, it’s apparent that netizens are eyeing royalty for their festive picks this summer. This time around, the farshi shalwar is all the rage, prompting open conversations between celebrities, designers, and fashion experts all over the internet.

Resurrected from the Mughal era, this regal pair of trousers extends below heels. The hem line sweeps the floor with every stride, owing to the ‘farshi’ (of the floor) demonstration of the article. The unversed might deem it an inconvenience, though passionate social media users would heartily disagree. This style of shalwar has taken the digital landscape by a storm, and here’s why it warrants your attention.

A timeless supplement

Among those flaunting their take on the trend is Ayeza Khan, who raised the waistband high for her deep brown ensemble. “It seems like the whole world is into farshi shalwar these days! What’s up with that?” she mused on Instagram. “And here I am, already over it because this is the 77th farshi shalwar I’m wearing this season!”

Despite her long-standing experience with the trend, Ayeza admitted to still not being over it. “I think this Eid is all about the farshi shalwar. What do you guys think?” she posed, thanking celebrity stylist Aneela Murtaza for “setting the trend last Eid.”

While the Chupke Chupke actor admitted that her shalwar didn’t quite brush the floor like one would expect, she did leave us with styling insights to keep in mind for the celebrations ahead. With the length of your legs shrouded by long, flowy trousers, it only makes sense to pair your shalwar with a petal-sleeved kameez and glossy, uni-coloured bangles.

To further emulate Ayeza’s style, go for a half-tied hairstyle, with your bangs pinned back in neat twists so your soft smokey makeup and jhumkay can steal the attention. And finally, slip on flat, strappy sandals and sweep the floor with ease like your outfit does. The youthful ensemble will serve as both a fresh look and a safe bet for your mellow gatherings this Eid.

A signature look

Another celebrity sweeping the internet with the ‘farshi’ look is Sadaf Kanwal, whose multiple takes on the shalwar have the internet singing praises. “I don’t like this trend. It only looks good on Sadaf Kanwal,” a user declared in an Instagram Story reshared by the model.

Needless to say, some netizens aren’t fond of the shalwar, with gripes ranging from how squarely the cloth conceals the shoes or how it’s begging to be stained. But Sadaf has the power to sway minds in ensembles from Hussain Rehar and her own brand.

If you’re looking for simple sophistication this Eid, check out Sadaf’s oft-styled maroon shalwar kameez complemented by an organza dupatta of the same colour. The traditional touch to the farshi shalwar goes well with heeled pumps, elevating both you and your fashion sense. Flatter the graceful look with a white beaded necklace, resting over the collarbone and dangling over the middle in style.

If neon is more your speed, Sadaf has also been spotted in a three-piece lime green set that will satisfy your taste for a polished spectacle. Let the halter neckline companion be your companion when lockets are on standby. The farshi shalwar’s catch here are its folds that allow for an inflated look right out of your dreams. Cuffed towards the ankles, these trousers too extend to the toes.

A designer’s go-to

Sadaf is often seen in a farshi shalwar when she’s posing for a dazzling photoshoot for Hussain Rehar. Take for example the brand’s blue and yellow ensemble Riviera. Channelling rich tradition, the attire boasts meticulously designed embroidery on lawn fabric. Infused with floral patterns, the luxurious look plays on complementing colours in a brilliant exhibition of splendour. A mustard lawn dupatta pours down the shoulder, draping the colour-blocked embroidery. The modern silhouette is paired with coordinating blue cotton embroidered shalwar.

Many are acquainted with the brand’s magic, like Maya Ali who wore Buff by Hussain Rehar at an event in Brisbane, donning yet another farshi shalwar from the designer. The beige raw silk shirt flaunted intricate screen printing. While the puff sleeves were embellished with delicate finery, loop buttons filed down the neckline, adding a refined touch. The top flowed over a beige screen-printed shalwar, the chanderi silk poncha blending traditional and contemporary styles. This fairytale of a look would bode well at any grand soirée, allowing you to flutter freely without worrying about mud staining your floor-swept shalwar.