The Anarkali kurti is one of the most elegant and timeless pieces in traditional Indian fashion. With its flowing silhouette, intricate embroidery, and regal charm, it's no surprise that the Anarkali suit has been a favorite choice for women for decades. Whether you're attending a wedding, festive celebration, or family gathering, an Anarkali suit can elevate your ethnic look to perfection.
However, styling an Anarkali kurti can sometimes feel overwhelming due to its voluminous design and variety of options. From pairing the right jewelry to choosing the perfect hairstyle, the key is to balance the outfit with subtlety and elegance. Here are some expert tips on how to style an Anarkali kurti, from fashion to accessories and hairstyles.
1. Choose the Right Fit and Fabric for Your Body Type
Why It Matters:
The beauty of an Anarkali kurti lies in its flattering cut, which accentuates the body beautifully. However, the wrong fit or fabric can make you look bulky or out of proportion. To get it just right, pick a fit that complements your body type.
What to Consider:
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For Hourglass Figures: Opt for Anarkali kurtis with a slightly fitted bust and flare towards the bottom. Fabrics like georgette, chiffon, or silk will drape beautifully and create a flattering shape.
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For Pear-Shaped Bodies: Choose a kurti that flares from just below the bust or waist to avoid adding bulk around the hips. A-line or empire waist Anarkalis in light fabrics like cotton or linen work great.
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For Petite Frames: Go for Anarkalis with less volume and simpler designs. A short Anarkali that just brushes the knee or a knee-length kurti will elongate your frame and make you look taller.
2. Pair the Right Bottom Wear
Why It Matters:
The bottom wear plays a crucial role in bringing out the elegance of an Anarkali kurti. It needs to complement the kurti in terms of color, fabric, and fit.
Stylish Options:
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Leggings/Churidar: The classic choice for a traditional look. Opt for a contrast color or tone-on-tone style depending on the occasion. A fitted churidar or leggings will highlight the flow of the Anarkali.
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Palazzos: For a more contemporary twist, pair your Anarkali kurti with wide-legged palazzos. This look works beautifully for casual outings or day events.
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Sharara/Skirt: For weddings or festive occasions, opt for a sharara or lehenga-style skirt. The voluminous silhouette adds drama and elegance to your overall look.
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Straight Pants: If you prefer a more modern vibe, pair the Anarkali with straight-cut pants or cigarette pants. This combination gives you a sleek, minimalist look.
3. Accessorize with Statement Jewelry
Why It Matters:
Jewelry can elevate an Anarkali kurti, giving it a more sophisticated and regal touch. The right pieces will complement the kurti without overwhelming the look.
Jewelry Tips:
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For Weddings & Festive Occasions: Go for statement pieces like chandbalis, jhumkas, or a heavy choker. A layered necklace with matching earrings can complement the ornate look of the Anarkali.
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For Day Events: Choose light jewelry, such as delicate drop earrings, a thin bracelet, and a simple ring. Gold, silver, or even oxidized jewelry works well with Anarkali kurtis.
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For Casual Looks: For a more casual take, wear a single statement piece—like a pendant necklace or cuff bracelet. Minimal jewelry like stud earrings or bangles works best.
4. Footwear: Choose Comfort & Style
Why It Matters:
Your footwear plays a significant role in completing the overall look. While you want something stylish, you also need to ensure that it’s comfortable for long hours of wear.
Footwear Options:
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Traditional Juttis or Mojaris: These classic flat shoes pair beautifully with Anarkali kurtis, especially if you’re going for a traditional or festive look.
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Heels: For a more elevated appearance, opt for block heels, wedges, or stilettos. Heels add height and give you a graceful posture.
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Kolhapuris: These comfortable yet stylish sandals are perfect for a traditional, boho-inspired outfit.
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Flats: If you’re looking for something more relaxed, chic flats or ballerinas can complement your Anarkali kurti for a casual outing.
5. Opt for the Right Hairstyle
Why It Matters:
Your hairstyle can either make or break the look of an Anarkali kurti. The right hairdo enhances the elegance of your outfit and balances the volume of the kurti.
Hairstyling Tips:
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Loose Waves or Curls: Soft waves or curls add volume and softness to your face while complementing the elegant flow of an Anarkali.
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Sleek Bun or High Ponytail: For a more formal look, a tight bun or high ponytail helps keep the outfit neat and classy.
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Braids: Traditional braids or fishtail braids are perfect for adding a hint of bohemian charm to your Anarkali kurti.
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Messy Updos: A messy bun or updo can give a casual, chic twist to your traditional kurti. Pair it with light makeup for a fresh, youthful look.
6. Play with Colors and Prints
Why It Matters:
Anarkali kurtis come in a range of colors and patterns, and knowing which one to pick for your occasion is essential. Bright colors may work for festive settings, while subtle hues can be perfect for a more relaxed look.
Color Recommendations:
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For Weddings and Formal Events: Opt for rich, deep colors like royal blue, maroon, emerald green, or gold. These colors give off a regal vibe.
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For Day Events: Lighter pastels, such as peach, lavender, mint green, or soft pink, work perfectly for daytime gatherings.
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For Casual Look: Earthy tones or simple prints like floral or geometric work best for casual outings. These are easy to style and comfortable for day wear.
7. Makeup: Keep It Natural or Go Bold
Why It Matters:
Makeup helps tie your whole look together. Depending on the occasion, you can either keep it subtle or go bold to make a statement.
Makeup Tips:
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For Weddings/Festivals: Go for bold makeup with defined eyes, a deep lip color (like red or maroon), and glowing skin. Contour lightly to add definition.
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For Day Events: Keep the makeup natural—use a tinted moisturizer, subtle blush, and a nude lip. A swipe of mascara and light eye makeup will do wonders.
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For Casual Looks: Keep it minimal with a fresh, dewy look. Use BB cream, nude eyeshadow, and lip gloss for an effortlessly chic vibe.
Conclusion
Styling an Anarkali kurti is all about balancing traditional elegance with your personal flair. With the right fit, accessories, hairstyle, and makeup, you can easily turn a simple Anarkali kurti into an outfit that shines at any event. Whether it’s a wedding, family gathering, or casual outing, this timeless garment will always be a stylish choice.
So go ahead, experiment with colors, jewelry, and styles—because with the right combination, you can look just as glamorous as the Bollywood divas!
