In ancient times, the royal and lower class women of Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) covered their lower bodies, but often displayed their upper bodies without any covering.
However, the Hindu-Buddhist culture of ancient Sri Lanka underwent changes during the 14th century, possibly when Islam made inroads into the Indian subcontinent. This and other influences helped make an upper garment part of the female dress code. Later western influences also made the women of Sri Lanka more conservative in their dress habits. |
