The story of the lehenga began as an evolution of ancient skirt forms, (16th-19th centuries) popularizing it as a royal garment for women in India, evolving to include elaborate designs, silks, and embroidery techniques like zardozi. The lehenga, or ghagra, is a long, flowing skirt worn with a choli (blouse) and dupatta, and though its origins are deep-rooted in Indian culture, its design has transformed over the centuries from basic designs to glamorous contemporary styles worn on red carpets and in fashion.