Anarkali suits have become a symbol of elegance and grace in Indian fashion. With their flowing silhouettes, intricate designs, and timeless charm, these suits have won hearts across the world. Whether it’s a wedding, a festival, or a casual gathering, the Anarkali suit can make you stand out effortlessly.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the history of the Anarkali suit, its various styles, and how you can style it to suit every occasion.
The Origin of the Anarkali Suit
The Anarkali suit traces its roots back to the Mughal era, named after the legendary dancer Anarkali, who is believed to have worn a similar style of outfit. The Mughal influence is evident in the traditional Anarkali’s flowy, regal design. Initially, these suits were worn by royalty and nobility, but over time, they became popular among women of all classes.
The Anarkali design consists of a long, flowing top (the kurta) and a fitted bodice. It’s known for its graceful, floor-length look, with pleats or gathers around the waist to give it a princess-like charm.
Why Anarkali Suits Are So Popular
Anarkali suits have remained a staple in Indian wardrobes due to their incredible versatility and timeless appeal. Here’s why they are so loved:
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Flattering Silhouette: The Anarkali suit’s long, flowing design flatters all body types by creating an elongated, slimming effect. The voluminous bottom helps balance the figure, making it an ideal choice for women of every size.
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Elegance: The Anarkali suit exudes grace and sophistication, making it perfect for formal occasions like weddings, receptions, or festivals.
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Comfort: Despite its elegant look, Anarkali suits are surprisingly comfortable. The loose flow of the fabric allows for easy movement, making it ideal for long events.
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Versatility: The style can easily be adapted for any occasion, from casual wear to extravagant celebrations. Whether you prefer a simple cotton Anarkali for daytime wear or a heavily embroidered one for a wedding, there’s something for everyone.
Types of Anarkali Suits
Anarkali suits have evolved over time and now come in various styles to cater to different tastes and preferences. Some popular types of Anarkali suits include:
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Traditional Anarkali Suit: These are floor-length dresses with heavy embroidery and embellishments. They are often paired with a churidar or palazzo pants and a dupatta.
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Frock Style Anarkali: This style features a more circular flare, resembling a frock. It is usually paired with a long, flowing dupatta and can be worn at both casual and formal events.
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Straight Cut Anarkali: The straight-cut Anarkali is a more modern and sleek version of the traditional silhouette. It features a straight, narrow fit that ends in a flare at the bottom, providing a more streamlined look.
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Double Layered Anarkali: Featuring two layers of fabric, this style adds extra volume and a dramatic flair to the suit. It’s often worn for more formal occasions and can be paired with both churidars or palazzos.
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Anarkali with Jacket: This hybrid style combines the traditional Anarkali with a long jacket that can be heavily embroidered or plain, depending on the occasion. It’s perfect for evening gatherings or wedding receptions.
How to Style Anarkali Suits
The beauty of Anarkali suits lies in their versatility. Here’s how you can style them for different occasions:
1. For Weddings and Formal Events:
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Opt for a heavily embroidered Anarkali suit in rich fabrics like silk or satin.
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Pair with traditional jewelry such as a polki necklace, maang tikka, and kadas for a royal look.
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Go for a contrasting dupatta to add dimension to your outfit. A dupatta with intricate work or mirror embellishments can elevate the look.
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Pair with classic heels or juttis for an elegant touch.
2. For Festivals:
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Choose a festive Anarkali in vibrant colors like red, yellow, green, or blue.
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You can go for lighter fabrics like chiffon or georgette if you’re attending a daytime festival.
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Accessorize with statement earrings, bangles, and a simple yet elegant clutch.
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If you prefer comfort, opt for a straight cut Anarkali paired with palazzo pants.
3. For Casual Gatherings:
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Go for a cotton Anarkali that features a simple design or minimal embroidery.
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Pair it with a lightweight dupatta or skip the dupatta altogether for a more relaxed look.
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Flats, sandals, or even stylish ethnic sneakers can be paired for a casual touch.
4. For Office Wear:
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Opt for a more subtle Anarkali made from light fabrics like cotton or linen. A straight-cut Anarkali is a great option.
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Pair with simple accessories like stud earrings and a sleek watch.
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Pair with churidar or straight pants for a professional, yet chic look.
Final Thoughts: Why Anarkali Suits Are a Must-Have in Your Wardrobe
Anarkali suits are the perfect combination of traditional charm and contemporary style. Whether you’re attending a wedding, a festival, or a casual gathering, the Anarkali suit can effortlessly blend comfort, elegance, and style. With a variety of fabrics, cuts, and designs to choose from, Anarkali suits remain a timeless wardrobe staple that can be styled for any occasion.
So, whether you go for a classic floor-length Anarkali or a modern straight-cut version, there's no denying the magic of this stunning outfit.
