Indian ladies kurta is one of the most versatile pieces of ethnic wear which can be worn in dozens of different ways, to create dozens of different looks. When paired with the right shoes and bottoms, a kurta can be easily dressed up or down to meet a certain dress code.
So, for all those ladies who are wondering how to give a modern upgrade to their old kurtas, we have created this kurta styling guide. Keep reading the article to learn some super clever tips for extending the service life of your favorite Indian iteration by using it in more than just one way. Let's begin!
How To Wear A Kurta?
Mix And Match
Kurtas come in so many different types of prints and patterns. From bold, solid-colored kurtas to vibrant, fully loaded with geometric or floral patterns, you can find all kinds of kurtas in the market. After purchasing one that reflects your style and choice, try to style it using a mix-and-match strategy.
For example, if your kurta is full of print, pair it with solid-colored leggings, pants, or bottom wear to create a balance. Likewise, if your kurta is solid-colored and plain, club it with printed bottoms. Just make sure to choose the bottom wear in matching colors otherwise, the pair would look extremely mismatched.
Style With A Dupatta
Add a touch of elegance to your traditional look by styling your kurta with a matching dupatta. Drape it in a way which you find most comfortable; as a stole, on one shoulder, or over head and shoulders.
Use the same mix-and-match rule and pair a solid-colored, plain kurta with a printed, full-of-colors dupatta and vice versa. For a formal occasion, consider opting for a heavily embellished dupatta and more desi bottom wear like Gharara, palazzos, or lehenga. Whereas, for an everyday, easy breezy look, pair your simple kurta with a lightweight dupatta, flip flops, and your favorite pair of jeans.
Club Kurta With Jeans
Jeans are ideal to create a trendy look with your traditional kurta. Especially when you are planning to keep your outfit simple and ideal for situations where too much walking and standing will be involved, the jeans and kurta combo acts as a lifesaver. It doesn't matter what the length of your kurta is since every style and length looks great with jeans.
For example, if you have a long, straight-hem kurta with side slits, style it with skinny, tight-fitted jeans. On the other hand, boyfriend or ripped jeans look stunning with short kurtas and sneakers.
Pair With Palazzo
Perfect for summertime, palazzo pants are perfect to create an easy breezy look with your old kurta. To look slimmer and taller, you can go with a low-waisted palazzo and wear it with a straight hem, long kurta. Or you may style your short kurta with a high-waisted palazzo to look adorably chubby and short.
And since palazzo pants are also available in multiple designs and prints, don't forget to employ mix and match strategy here as well. Besides everyday attire, palazzo pants also make for gorgeous festive attire, when paired with heavily embellished kurtas. Complete the look with a simple pair of heels or a floral-printed, Punjabi jutti.
Compliment With Jewelry
Jewelry can make any outfit look ten times better and since the Indian jewelry catalog is full of options, you can find something for sure to glamorize your outfit. For example, for an everyday look, pair your simple kurta with jeans and small oxidized jhumkas. If the sleeves of the kurta are of 3 ⁄ 4 length, you may also wear matching bangles but don't wear more than 12 in one hand.
On the other hand, club your fancy, embellished kurta with desi bottoms and a statement necklace or maang tikka. Or, you can also wear heavy earrings and tie your hair in a sleek bun so all the focus will be directed to your face.
Layer With Jacket
If the weather allows for it, consider layering your kurta with a jacket to look stylish. If your kurta is fully printed, you better go for a plain, denim jacket whereas for a plain kurta, get a floral-printed jacket. Likewise, pair a long kurta with a short jacket and pair your short kurta with a long jacket. Just keep in mind that this look is preferred for smart casual events or weekend dates.