The kurti is probably the hardest-working piece in an Indian wardrobe. You can wear the same one to the shops, to the office and to a family dinner, just by changing what you pair it with. If you’ve been wondering how to style a kurti for different occasions, here are the combinations our customers love most.
Know your kurti shapes
Before getting into outfits, it helps to know the main styles, because the shape decides what bottoms work best.
- Straight kurti: a simple, clean shape. Works with nearly anything.
- A-line kurti: fitted at the top and flaring towards the hem. Flattering on most figures.
- Anarkali kurti: fitted bodice with a full, flared skirt. Dressier and great for functions.
- Short kurti: hip length, easy to pair with jeans.
- Front-slit or high-low kurti: a more modern look that shows off the pants underneath.
As a rule, longer and flared kurtis look best with slim bottoms, and straight kurtis can go with wider pants like palazzos.
How to style a kurti for everyday wear
For school drop-offs, errands and weekends, keep it relaxed and comfortable.
- A cotton kurti with leggings or straight pants is easy and practical.
- A short kurti with jeans is a great casual look for a café or shopping trip.
- Add sneakers, flats or kolhapuri-style sandals.
- In winter, throw on a long cardigan, denim jacket or trench coat over the top.
Printed and lighter-coloured kurtis work well for daytime. Keep jewellery simple: small studs or a watch is plenty.
Kurtis for work
A kurti can look just as polished as a blouse and trousers. The trick is to keep the lines clean and the colours calm.
- Choose a straight or A-line kurti in a solid colour or subtle print.
- Pair it with tailored cigarette pants or straight trousers.
- Keep the length around the knee so it looks neat when you sit.
- Navy, grey, olive, maroon and pastels all look professional.
- A fitted blazer over a straight kurti looks sharp for meetings.
Skip heavy embroidery and very bright prints for the office, and save the dupatta for another day if it gets in the way at your desk.
Festival and party looks
When Diwali, Eid, Rakhi or a family function comes around, a kurti can easily be dressed up.
- An anarkali or embroidered kurti with churidar is a classic festive combination.
- A straight kurti with a sharara or flared palazzo looks fun and modern.
- Add a contrast dupatta to brighten a simple kurti.
- Choose richer fabrics with some shimmer or thread work.
- Finish with jhumkas, bangles and embellished juttis or heels.
A long, flowing gown is another easy option if you want a festive look without putting together separate pieces. Browse our kurtis and gowns to see the styles.
Small changes that make a big difference
You don’t need a new kurti for every occasion. Here’s how to get more wear from one:
- Swap the bottoms: leggings for casual, cigarette pants for work, sharara for a party.
- Change the dupatta: plain for everyday, embroidered for festivals.
- Add a belt at the waist for a more fitted shape.
- Layer with a jacket or shrug for cooler Melbourne evenings.
If you want the full matching look without the effort of mixing and matching, have a look at our women’s suits, which come as a set. And if you’d rather have something tailored to you, our semi-stitched and unstitched suits are worth a look.
We have many more kurti designs, colours and sizes in store than on our website, and many of them are our own designs. Send us a WhatsApp on 0450 649 304 and tell us what you’re after, for work, everyday or a festival, and we’ll send photos. You can try them on in our Aintree store or get them delivered anywhere in Australia for $16.