Stand Out From the Crowd: Clever Styling Tips to Make Your Anarkali Kurti Look Unique

The anarkali kurti is a timeless fashion statement that has evolved over the years while retaining its elegant essence. Inspired by the regal mughal era, this floor-length kurti was originally long, flowy and ornate. Today's anarkali kurti has adapted to modern sensibilities while upholding its signature silhouette and flair.

Pair with Leggings or Palazzos

Anarkali kurtis have a flowy silhouette that can be balanced by pairing them with fitted bottoms like leggings or palazzos. Leggings come in a variety of colors and materials like leather, suede, or printed leggings. Pair your kurti with solid leggings for an understated look or go bold with printed leggings.

Palazzos are wide-legged pants that provide a similar slimming effect. They elongate the silhouette and add drama. Go for solid palazzos or printed patterns like floral, paisley or ethnic motifs. Palazzos made of silk, crepe or chiffon fabrics will give a luxurious vibe.

Leggings and palazzos allow the Anarkali kurti to take center stage. Choose bottoms in co-ordinating or contrasting colors to create a stylish head-to-toe look.

Drape a Dupatta

Adding a dupatta is a simple way to give your anarkali kurti an extra flair. Drape a contrasting dupatta in a coordinating color or print over one shoulder or both to spice up a basic kurti.

Opt for a dupatta with embellishments, tassels, or embroidery to make it a focal point. If your kurti already has heavy embellishments or prints, choose a lightweight chiffon or georgette dupatta so it doesn't compete.Let it flow behind you or criss-cross it over your chest for a stylish look. Play with different draping techniques to suit your style.

Go for a translucent dupatta with simple kurtis for modest daywear. Paired with heavier embroidered or velvet kurtis, a dupatta can lend a glamorous touch for nighttime events. A gracefully draped dupatta can make even a basic anarkali kurti look runway-ready.

Cinch with a Belt

One easy way to accentuate your waist and add shape to an anarkali kurti is by cinching it with a belt. Pick a belt that matches or complements the color palette of your kurti. You can choose from options like fabric belts, metallic belts, braided belts, or embellished belts. Position the belt at your natural waistline, rather than too high or too low. This will help define your waistline and silhouette. Make sure the belt is snug but not too tight.

Belts worn at the waist instantly add style and structure to the flowy shape of anarkalis. It creates contrast between the flared kurti and the cinched waistline. This is a great trick for women who feel anarkalis can otherwise look too voluminous on the body.

Layer with a Jacket

Adding a bolero or cropped jacket on top of your anarkali kurti is a great way to switch up the look. A bolero is a short, cropped jacket that hits right at the waist. This style keeps the flowy shape of the anarkali intact while adding a layer on top. Look for boleros made of sheer or lace fabrics to maintain the delicateness of the anarkali underneath.

For a more structured look, try a cropped jacket that hits at the hips. Denim, leather, or printed jackets work well to create contrast with the anarkali kurti. Make sure the jacket isn't too oversized or it will hide the shape of the anarkali. A more fitted cropped jacket balances out the volume of the anarkali bottom.

Layering with jackets allows you to get more wear out of your anarkali kurtis. Swap out jackets and you can reinvent the same anarkali into multiple looks. Simply add tights or jeans underneath and an anarkali becomes wearable year-round.

Mix Prints and Textures

One of the best ways to style an anarkali kurti is by mixing different prints and textures. This adds visual interest and dimension to your outfit. When mixing prints, pair solids with prints or combine multiple prints in the same color family. For example, you can wear a solid colored anarkali kurti with a printed dupatta. Or try pairing a floral printed kurti with a paisley printed dupatta.

You can also mix different textures like pairing a silk anarkali kurti with a cotton dupatta. Experiment with mixing matte and shiny fabrics or combine smooth and nubby textures. Just make sure the textures complement each other instead of clashing. Feel free to play around with embroidered kurtis, handloom weaves, or kurtis with patchwork details. Mixing textures adds depth and makes your anarkali stand out.

Play with Length

When styling your anarkali kurti, don't be afraid to experiment with different lengths. This versatile staple garment comes in a variety of sizes, from short and flirty to sweeping and dramatic. Play around to find the proportions that best flatter your frame and personal style.

One easy option is to go for a floor-length anarkali that grazes your ankles. This elongated silhouette is great for adding height and a regal vibe. Make sure to pair your maxi kurti with heels, wedges or platform shoes so you don't trip.

For a more casual daytime look, try a calf or knee-length anarkali kurti. This medium length flatters most body types and is easy to style. You can accentuate your legs by pairing a calf-length anarkali with skinny pants or leggings. Or balance out curves with a mid-length tunic style top. A knee-length anarkali works well with churidars, harem pants or skirts.

While a maxi anarkali makes a glamorous statement for weddings and events. Have fun playing with different lengths to showcase your personal flair.

Don’t settle for one style while you can have more interesting and eye-catching anarkali’s as your sophisticated staple wardrobe dresses. Create your own magic with your unique style!