5 Must-Have Kashmiri Winter Outfits to Beat the Chill in Style

Kazi Nasir | Nov 13, 2025, 12:00 IST

Traditional Kashmiri Winter Clothing

( Image credit : Freepik )

If natural beauty has a synonym, it’s Kashmir, a paradise that turns into a snowy wonderland every winter. As temperatures dip below –10°C, Kashmiris rely on their traditional winter outfits that blend warmth, culture and craftsmanship. From the iconic pheran and luxurious pashmina shawl to the eco-friendly Namda coats, Aari embroidered jackets and hand-knitted Karakul caps, each attire tells a story of elegance and heritage.

If natural beauty has a synonym it is Kashmir. In winter this place experiences freezing cold dipping below -10°C, and snow fills its streets which is the reason for its unique warmth and traditional attire. What Kashmiris wear in winter and how they wear their attire is not only just fashion, it links their centuries-old craftsmanship that combines wool, pashmina and culture together. Here are five traditional Kashmiri winter outfits that are a mixture of comfort, elegance and heritage.

1. Pheran

Kashmiri Pheran

This is a long attire worn by both men and women. It looks like a loose woollen gown that is paired with a kangri (Portable fire pot) underneath the dress for warmth. Its woollen texture can retain heat up to 30-40% compared to regular sweaters. The modern versions of pherans come with embroidered designs and pastel tones.

2. Pashmina Shawl

This is a very famous, luxurious, handwoven textile made by the locals from the fine cashmere wool of the Changthangi goat, found in the high altitudes of the Himalayas. The fibre extracts from these goats are renowned for their exceptional softness and warmth. One shawl can take up to 180 hours to weave. Shawls are really lightweight yet incredibly warm with their unique features such as they can trap eight times more heat than regular wool. This is a global fashion symbol for Kashmiris that blends tradition with timeless style.

3. Namda and Gabba Coats

Namda and Gabba Coats

These coats are made using ancient Kashmiri techniques from felted wools. They are originally used as rugs but are also adapted into stylish winter coats. They are eco-friendly and hand embroidered. As the world seeks sustainable products that are nature friendly these products are gaining popularity in the trending fashion circles.

4. Woollen Aari Embroidered Jackets

Woollen Aari Embroidered Jackets

Aari work - a centuries old embroidery technique done with a hooked needle. These jackets showcase the aari work which often made from wool or velvet. Amazing thing to wear casully. These jacket are popular among tourists for their colourful Kashmiri motifs and modern cuts.

5. Kashmiri Mufflers and Caps

Here in Kashmir woolen caps are knitted with hand like Karakul and same with the mufflers which are key winter essentials. Kashmiri leaders like Sheikh Abdullah proudly wear famous Karakul cap to represent its cultural pride.

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FAQs

Q1. What should I wear in Kashmir in January?
Ans: Woollen Jackets

Q2. What is a Phiran?
Ans: a long, loose-fitting robe that is the traditional attire of Kashmir, worn by men, women, and children for centuries.

Q3. What is special to buy in Kashmir?
Ans: Pashmina shawls, Kashmiri saffron, and intricately designed carpets.