Named after the most popular courtesan from the Mughal Empire, Anarkalis are a symbol of elegance, sophistication, and allure. Among the many traditional attires that are worn and available for women in India, Anarkalis have stood the test of time. Anarkali dresses can be styled in so many different ways, that you can never run out of ensembles to experiment with. Let’s take a look at the different styles of Anarkalis that are available before we explore the array of accessories you can style them with.
- Embellished & Bedazzled
Anarkali styles are very glamorous and stylish. They make for the perfect look for high-end events, festivities, and weddings. They have a royal appeal for luxurious and opulent occasions.
- Hand-Embroidered
Embroidered Anarkalis add a level of depth and royalty to them. They evoke India’s cultural essence where handicraft artisans spend countless hours working on every piece. It is one for the big occasions where you need to bring a subtle yet suave vibe.
- Indo-Western
If you have a contemporary Anarkali design with modern prints and design, you can jazz it up with a pair of wide-legged demons or even skinny jeans. It evokes a very modern-meets-cultural vibe that is perfect for college fests, a day in the park with your friends or even as a guest in a wedding home during the day. It offers the comfort of denim and the style of a festive occasion.
- Jacket Anarkalis
An Anarkali is a long, flowy piece of material that cinches at your waist. You can add a jacket to this outfit and build a beautiful and harmonious ensemble. You can also add heavy necklaces and chains to replace the traditional dupatta that comes with an Anarkali set. You can also add a chunky belt to further accentuate your waist. You can add multiple layers to this meticulously stitched outfit to add more character that matches your personality.
- Fabrics Fever
You can also play with a myriad of fabrics when it comes to Anarkalis. From fluid-like georgettes to regal-looking satin silks, you can rock any occasion with a different fabric every time. Although Anarkali dresses have a particular stitch pattern to them, a different fabric makes the fit look different each time.
- Cuts & Style
Anarkali dresses are usually long and symmetrical at the bottom, but you can switch it up with either a shorter Anarkali or one with an asymmetric cut. Asymmetric Anarkalis were really a trendy piece of clothing back in the 2010s, where women would pair it with jeans, juttis, and oxidized jewelry.
Styling Tips For Anarkali Dresses
- Jewelry
Anarkali dresses are as maximalist as they get, so opting for heavy jhumkas, necklaces, bangles, rings, and anklets is acceptable when it comes to Anarkalis. Depending on the base color of your outfit, you can choose your jewelry that matches the vibe of the Anarkali. You can never go wrong with over-the-top jewelry because the Indian fashion scene is all about grandeur and magnificence.
- Bags
Most Anarkali dresses don’t have any pockets, lucky for us, because we get to flaunt our stylish bags that hold more than just our phones. A nice elegant clutch or even a sling bag, a jhola or a side bag, Anarkalis can be paired with any kind of bag, be it colorful and full of texture or even plain and simple like a little black bag.
- Shoes
The best choices of footwear when it comes to styling Anarkalis are Mojdais, Juttis, and Kolapuris. They pair exceptionally well with Anarkalis as they elevate the whole look seamlessly. You can also wear embellished shoes, whether flats or heels, that match the vibe of your dress. Alternatively, you can wear simple and modern footwear if a balanced look is what you are looking for.
- Dupatta
Although Anarkalis are pretty heavy with prints, patterns, designs, and most importantly the stitch, you can never go wrong by adding a dupatta. A dupatta is so versatile that you can layer it in multiple ways. A classic sideways dupatta looks elegant, whereas a dupatta draped around the neck as a choker is a timeless look as well. This fabric can also be tied around the waist as a belt when you are assuming a warrior pose on the playfield or the dance floor.
- Colors
If your Anarkali suit has a primary color, you can choose to mix and match your kameez or pants and dupatta with a different color for a standout look every time. You can also go with the classic coordinated look or a monochromatic look if you are not feeling experimental.
- Makeup
Anarkalis are pretty heavy when it comes to colors, patterns, and prints, so depending on the occasion, opt for a makeup look that fits the bill. If you are attending a low-key event like a birthday party or a small puja at home, opt for simple makeup that is not too loud. A soft blush, nude brown lips, a little shimmer on the eyes, and kohl on your waterline. But if the occasion calls for a full glam look, go for that bold red lip, smokey eyes, gradient eyeliner, full brows and lashes, and highlighter that makes you shine all night long.
- Hair
Anarkalis are so versatile that you can literally choose any hairstyle. If you are going to hit the dance floor, tie your hair up in a bun that keeps the flyaways aside, whereas if you are going to be standing and greeting a lot of guests, we recommend braiding your hair and adding some flowers, as all of your hair will be on display for the guests to adore. If you are feeling lazy or are short on time, just leave your strands open and let the outfit do the talking.
Parting Thoughts
If you are looking to style Anarkali dresses for a particular occasion, you will never run out of ideas, because Anarkalis are a very versatile piece of clothing. It leaves room for you to elevate the whole look while also being a complete look on its own.
