An Anarkali suit is a festive wardrobe must-have for all. This silhouette is versatile; whether it is celebrating Diwali at home or attending a wedding function, the Anarkali is timeless. A symbol of richness and history, this form of salwar-kameez worn by women in India and South Asian countries takes its name from the famous dancer at Mughal Emperor Akbar’s court. Famously known as the romantic interest of Prince Salim, Anarkali wore flattering kurtis that flared expansively through the knees and fitted tight on the torso.
The Hindi film industry made a significant impact on Indian culture in the 20th century with the film ‘Mughal-e-Azam’ - a tale of love between Prince Salim and Anarkali. This cinematic adaptation in 1960 heavily influenced the fashion industry by setting the trend of the flared kurtis ‘Anarkali’. This silhouette’s uniqueness and elegance has resulted in this style equally prevalent, if not more, even in 2023.
5 Must-Have Anarkali Dress Designs
Today, Anarkalis come in various types, including georgettes, satin, velvet, net and other fabrics. Modern designs have taken over the traditional style Anarkali with plunging necklines, strappy designs and Anarkali jackets. Whether it is carried with or without dupatta, the style is equally elegant however you carry it. Some must-have designer Anarkali suits for this season are:
1. Cinched at the waist with a belt
If you want a flattering look that would suit your body type, one of the best ways is to wear a belt on the waist. This makes the waist look smaller and makes for a fashion statement in a traditional Anarkali suit. Some anarkalis come with a belt while others can be accessorized with a stunning belt.
2. Deep Neckline
An out-of-the-ordinary neckline is sure to impress. Plunging, sweetheart, wide, broad or thin strap, round neck with full sleeves, high neck – Anarkali neckline designs are endless. Each one adds a unique touch to the ensemble. Lashkaraa’s Anarkalis feature stunning necklines, apt for the modern Indian. Our Periwinkle Embellished Velvet Anarkali Gown, Hot Pink Embroidered Georgette Anarkali and Light Green Embellished Velvet Anarkali feature some eye-catching necklines.
3. Pastels & Cream Shades
From Sonam Kapoor Ahuja who wore a chikankari gold and cream layered Anarkali for Diwali to Karisma Kapoor who chose a cream Anarkali and contrasted it with a stunning magenta Banarasi silk dupatta, pastel and cream shades have set a new fashion statement for a while now. Lashkaraa’s selection of pastels in anarkalis are equally beautiful.
4. Spaghetti Strap
Giving a twist to the classic Anarkali, spaghetti straps form the perfect breezy silhouette. These are ideal for a daytime look. Accessorize well to add to the drama. Lashkaraa’s Off-White and Pink Floral Anarkali comes with a spaghetti strap that would look great in the day while our Wine and Gold Embroidered Velvet Anarkali is ideal for special occasions.
5. Jacket Style
Whether it is with pants, lehenga or churidar, the jacket style Anarkali is a smart Indian ethnic wear ensemble, perfect for when you want to go hands-free sans dupatta. This style is chic, easy to carry and comes in stunning designs and embroideries. Lashkaraa’s White Floral Pant Style Anarkali comes in a printed version and is great for day events.
How do you style an Anarkali for a charming look?
Accessorize, accessorize, accessorize!
Indian wear without jewelry is incomplete. Adding some big chaandbalis, jhumka, kundan or pearl studs, will enhance any look. It is best to accessorize according to the silhouette, event and body type among other things. Case in point: An Anarkali with churidar goes really well with both juttis and heels. One can choose either depending on whether you want to elongate the body by giving it height, walk on the lawn for an event or simply be comfortable on the feet. Further, jewelry like maang-tikka, necklaces, bangles, statement kadas and rings can be added to enhance the look.
Hairstyles like a hair bun compliments the look of the Anarkali. This simple hairdo gives an elegant and a very contemporary feel to the ensemble. One can play around with the styles such as low bun, one-sided bun or a messy bun, depending on what suits best on your face-cut. A braided hairstyle also suits ethnic wear. It can give an alluring and plush look effortlessly. A classic and timeless hairstyle is open loose waves. Another feminine look is the fishtail braid. It is elegant and simple yet looks polished.
One can use hair accessories to further enhance the look. Use real flower hair pins for the bun and other hair jewelry pieces to complete the look. Floral arrangements can vary with the flower of choice, half-bun hairdo using flowers or adding pieces of flower petals spread out throughout the hair.
Add Some Sparkle to Your Wardrobe with Embellished Anarkalis
An evening affair of significance or even a day time function of any sort requires an outfit that can make a statement and stand out. Embroidered silhouettes are great but embellished Anarkalis add to the party-wear look of the outfit. Lashkaraa’s Light Grey and Pink Heavy Embellished Anarkaliis a good example. Its immaculate detailing, a body-flattering fusion silhouette and soft pastel hues make it a vision to behold. The embellishments are composed of meticulously handcrafted thread work, sequin and zardozi rendered in 3D style flowers, butterflies and leaves.
These extensive embellishments are perfect for the festive season. Indian weddings involve a lot of drama, bling and grand outfits. For high-octane glamor, an embroidery rich Anarkali is a fabulous option to consider when planning to attend the festivities. Not your usual salwar kameez style, this one is unique and stands out. When the occasion doesn’t warrant ethnic dressing, opt for our Light Grey Heavy Embellished Net Anarkali Gown – a sleek floor sweeping ensemble.
Given the myriad of styles, fabrics and designs of this silhouette matched with many different ways of styling them, no festive wardrobe is complete without an Anarkali style suit in their closet.
Shop Lashkaraa’s anarkali picks here.
References:
https://priyachaudhary.com/blog/how-anarkali-suit-became-famous