The document provides an overview of the kurti, a traditional garment worn in India, Pakistan, and other South Asian countries. It discusses the history and origins of the kurti, tracing it back to ancient times when it was worn by both men and women. Over time, the kurti evolved and gained popularity in various contexts, including among scholars, artists, poets, and as part of the hippie movement. The document also examines different popular styles of kurtis including a-line, trail cut, anarkali, tail cut, dhoti style, flared, indo-western, and long straight styles. For each style, it provides details on fabric, occasion, pairing, accessories

1. BY SUNIL TALEKAR

2. INTRODUCTION
.
The Kurti or Kurta, is an outfit
that has popular in India,
Pakistan, Shri Lanka.
Kurti has evolved down the ages
to suit the ever changing
demands of the fashion forward
world.

3. INTRODUCTION
.
The Kurta is worn by men
while Kurtis are worn by women

4. INTRODUCTION
.
A long top, generally of knee-
length, paired with Salwar or
Churidar and Dupatta is what
comprises the Salwar-Kurti-
Dupatta get-up.

5. ORIGIN AND HISTORY
Since its formation in ancient times, the kurta
has been one of the traditional attires for
men and women living in countries like India,
Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, and even Sri
Lanka

6. ORIGIN AND HISTORY
Initially, this Indian outfit was
a form of clothing worn only
by men living in these
countries, but later it became
a regular attire for women, for
which it has its own feminine
term known as Kurti.

7. ORIGIN AND HISTORY
Looking back at the early 19th
Century, the Kurta gained
popularity as several scholars,
artists and poets were famous for
donning this piece of clothing.
Contrary to the various styles and
forms found today, this Indian Kurti
back then was usually very simple
with barely any elaborate designs.

8. ORIGIN AND HISTORY
The most common fabric used to make it was
Cotton, followed by Silk, which was only used
to make Kurtas for special occasions, or for
people with higher social standing and
wealth.

9. ORIGIN AND HISTORY
In addition to that, the hippie movement
during the 1960’s and 1970’s also gave this
tunic dress immense popularity as people
wore these loose and comfortable pieces as
reflecting their laid back and carefree
attitude.

10. ORIGIN AND HISTORY
The intriguing fact about the Kurti is that it
was not limited to any particular state or
region, unlike other dress forms that have a
set identity; it was a common form of attire
followed by people living in all kinds of
areas.

11. BY SUNIL TALEKAR
When one thinks of the Kurti,
one thinks comfort. The high
comfort factor is what makes
the Kurti a form of clothing
loved by all. The Kurti is a
versatile piece of clothing that
can be made in order to adapt
to any season or occasion.
POPULARITY

12. POPULARITY
During the harsh Indian summers, Cotton
kurtis are in everyone’s ‘to get and wear’
list due to its effortless style and comfort
level. In a similar way, Woolen kurtas are
also worn during winters.
.

13. When we speak of designs, embellishments
and fabrics that go into the making of a kurta,
there s no end to variety. They are available in
all kinds of styles, ranging from short to long,
from hand printed ones, to extremely
embellished ones.
POPULARITY

14. There is a kurti for every event. Whether one
wants to go for a heavily embroidered kurti or
a casual one with solid colors or prints , there is
definitely a piece available for every person.
POPULARITY

15. Women wear a Kurti with a fitted
churidaar or salwar for a traditional
look or with jeans for an Indo-
western look.
Men usually wear a Kurta with
Pajama for a classic look.
POPULARITY

16. A-LINE KURTI
A-Line kurti is the most favorite
among youngsters. It reaches to
the calf or ankle and it has flare
from the waist for making ‘A’
shaped panel.

17. A-LINE KURTI
There is a large collection of a-
line kurtis in market, available in
different colors, shades,
embroidery designs and
patterns.

18. A-LINE KURTI
When to Wear: Any casual
occasion
Pairing: Leggings, Churidar,
Jeggings, etc.
Accessories: Chunky jewelry,
Matching or contrast
pumps/flats
Flatters on/Suit on: Apple shape
body, Pear shape body
Length: Short, Knee-length, Long

19. TRAIL CUT KURTI
Trail cut kurti is latest in trend
now. It is quite different from c-
cut kurti. It has C-cuts on both
the sides

20. TRAIL CUT KURTI
Note that texture of materials can
change the overall look of kurti so
prefer materials like georgette,
chiffon, silk, crepe with border
embroidery to enhance the look of
designer cuts.

21. Tail cut kurti with layered
pattern is trending for party
functions. It is short from one
side (front or back) and has a tail
like effect on other side
TAIL CUT KURTI

22. Tail cut kurti is the best western
wear option for young Indian
girls & women. For more
glamorous look, one can wear
Tail cut kurti without any
bottom.
TAIL CUT KURTI

23. TAIL CUT KURTI
When to Wear: Club parties,
Kitty parties and Dating
Pairing: Leggings, Jeggings,
Jeans, and Treggings
Accessories: Modern jewelry,
Sunglasses, Pumps or Flats
Length: Short, Knee-length, Long

24. ANARKALI KURTI
Anarkali kurti is perfect for that
grace & elegance of traditional
look. Anarkali goes well with
every body shape

25. ANARKALI KURTI
Hourglass,Pear, Rectangle and Apple but
there are some style tips you should
consider before trying it.

26. ANARKALI KURTI
When to Wear: Daily, Formal,Casual,
Wedding and any other traditional
functions
Pairing: Leggings or Churidar
Accessories: Ethnic jewelry, flats, Indian
Juti and clutch
Flatters on/Suit on: Rectangle shape
body, Apple shape body, Pear shape
body, Hour-glass shape body
Length: Knee-length, Ankle Length

27. This is the fresh version of the former
times tunics worn by the royal court’s
musicians. In Angrakha, two similar
or contrast flaps lay on each other
and tie with the help of straps at the
side.
ANGRAKHA KURTI

28. This is the fresh version of the
former times tunics worn by the
royal court’s musicians. In
Angrakha, two similar or contrast
flaps lay on each other and tie
with the help of straps at the
side.
ANGRAKHA KURTI

29. For perfect traditional look, adorn it
with beads, hangings or stylish Pom
Pom. Angrakha kurti in Anarkali
style is the latest trend. Bollywood
divas are in love with Angrakha kurti
because of its feminine and stylish
look.
ANGRAKHA KURTI

30. ANGRAKHA KURTI
When to Wear: Casual (cotton), Party
(choose silk, georgette, chiffon, net
and chanderi), Formal, Daily
Pairing: Jeans, Churidar
and leggings for ankle or ¾ length
Accessories: For perfect party look,
wear long earrings, traditional jewelry,
Jutiya and classy clutch
Flatters on/Suit on: Apple shape body,
Pear shape body, Rectangle Shape
body, Hour-glass shape body
Length: Short, Knee-length, Long

31. DHOTI STYLE KURTI
In women fashion, Dhoti style
like Dhoti pants, Dhoti Saree,
Dhoti Dress, Dhoti Gown, etc.
are high in trend. Women just
love to wear such contemporary
versions of traditional garb.
Recently, Dhoti kurti has gained
lots of appreciation

32. DHOTI STYLE KURTI
It is loose and comfortable to wear, and
gives designer look to stand out in parties.
In Dhoti style, drapes may start from yoke
or bodice with designer cuts and creative
patterns. Attached belt is trendy pattern
for dhoti style kurti and flatters feminine
curves. Mostly, fabrics like georgette,
chiffon and silk are used to beautify
drapes.

33. DHOTI STYLE KURTI
When to Wear: Kitty parties, Office wear,
Social dos, weddings and festivals
Pairing: Treggings, Leggings, Tights,
Stockings (try printed for extra fun) and
without bottom
Accessories: Designer shoes, Bohemian
jewelry
Length: Knee-length, Ankle-length

34. FLARED KURTI
Trend of flares put fashion on fire, e.g.
wide flared kurtis in Anarkali style do
wonders. Flares are feminine beauty and
give gorgeous, rich look for party time.

35. FLARED KURTI
Both wide flared kurtis as well as
narrow flared kurtis are available in
market. Flared hemline looks good on
tall women so petite women should try
to avoid it.

36. FLARED KURTI
When to Wear: Daily
wear, Formal wear, Casual
wear, Party wear
Pairing: Skin-tight
leggings
Accessories: Trendy
jewelry, High heels to
highlight beautiful flares
Length: Short, Knee-
length, Long

37. FLARED KURTI

38. INDO-WESTERN STYLE KURTI
You can create a style statement
by mixing western and Indian
fashion together.

39. INDO-WESTERN STYLE KURTI
Mostly, the western look is given
by special neckline, sleeve styles
or different interesting cuts.

40. INDO-WESTERN STYLE KURTI
When to Wear: Non-traditional
events, casual parties, fun with
friends, office get-together
parties, etc.
Pairing: Jeans, Leggings or pair
without any bottom
Accessories: Chunky fashionable
jewelry or no jewelry, Scarves,
Hats and Casual shoes
Length: Short, Knee-length, Long

41. FLOOR LENGTH/GOWN STYLE KURTI
This is Indian equivalent of evening gowns.
These days, it is favorite style statement in
Bollywood for its rich & royal look.)

42. FLOOR LENGTH/GOWN STYLE
KURTI
You might have seen that most B-
town divas pick floor length
Anarkali to look gorgeous at red
carpet events, award functions,
inauguration ceremonies, etc. It is
available in many styles like
embroidered, printed, designer
anarkali, etc.

43. FLOOR LENGTH/GOWN STYLE KURTI
When to Wear: Wedding & Parties
Pairing: No need of bottom or pair it
with leggings
Accessories: No need of detailed
jewelry, a pair of beautiful earrings and
bracelets or bangles (only for short
sleeves or sleeveless) and heels for
impressive look
Flatters on/Suit on: Apple shape body,
Pear shape body, Rectangle shape body,
Hour-glass shape body (Not for Petite
shape body)
Length: Floor-length (Full Length)

44. LONG STRAIGHT KURTI
Nowadays, long straight kurti is in full
demand. You look taller in straight
hemline. Also, it gives impressive
professional look.

45. LONG STRAIGHT KURTI
Avoid short sleeves, as long straight kurti
looks stunning with full-sleeves. So, are
you ready for ethnic and funky fashion
makeover for office wear?

46. LONG STRAIGHT KURTI
When to Wear: Office wear, Formal
wear, Regular wear, Party wear
Pairing: Leggings or Churidars
Accessories: No need of jewelry,
however choose long earrings and
flats/heels
Flatters on/Suit on: Rectangle Shape
Body, Hour-glass Shape Body
Length: Knee-length, Long

47. PAKISTANI KURTI
Generally, they are long, straight and baggy.

48. PAKISTANI KURTI
Pakistani kurtis are ill-fitted so mostly
picked by fashionista and trend lovers
who love to try something new every
time.

49. PAKISTANI KURTI
When to Wear: Casual wear,
Summer favorite, Office wear,
Regular wear, Party wear with
heavy embroideries
Pairing: Ankle length leggings
or Tribal printed Treggings,
Jeans & Jeggings
Accessories: Long neck pieces
and heels
Flatters on/ Suit
on: Rectangle Shape Body,
Pear Shape Body
Length: Knee-length, Long

50. COLOUR-BLOCK KURTI
Color-block kurti has no print
and design so the main focus is
on color only.

51. COLOUR-BLOCK KURTI
Just, make sure that colors you
choose suit your skin tone and hair
style.

52. COLOUR-BLOCK KURTI
When to Wear: Fun with friends,
Summer favorite, Perfect casual wear
Pairing: Contrast leggings,
Jeggings, Treggings
Accessories: Funky jewelry, Matching
pumps or Sandals, and Goggles for
stylish summer look
Flatters on/ Suit on:Apple shape body
Length: Knee-length, Long

53. PRINTED KURTI
From simple block print to
digital print, things just go
on and on for this avant-
garde kurti trend.You don’t
require extra accessories
with printed kurti.

54. PRINTED KURTI
When to Wear: Summer and beach
vacation
Pairing: Leggings, Patiala, Jeggings,
Jeans and trousers

55. PRINTED KURTI
Accessories: Put on minimum jewelry,
and be comfortable in trendy flats or
wedges and cool in stylish eye-wears
Length: Short, Knee-length, Long

56. SHIRT STYLE KURTI
This fusion of Indian kurti and western
shirt is trendy choice for your office
wardrobe! You look professional as well as
stylish by wearing this shirt style kurti.

57. SHIRT STYLE KURTI
It is available for both, casual and formal
dressings. Just make sure that fabric is
skin-friendly, so you feel comfortable at
work-place.

58. SHIRT STYLE KURTI
When to Wear: Office wear, Casual wear
Pairing: Jeans, Jeggings, Tribal Pants
Accessories: Avoid bracelet, go for modern
earrings, designer belts, Pumps or Flats,
Branded Leather Purse
Flatters on/ Suit on: Rectangle shape
body, Hour-glass shape body (with belt)
Length: Short

59. HIGH-LOW KURTI
High-low is modern type of kurti. In this
type of kurti, the front hem is shorter
compared to the back.

60. HIGH-LOW KURTI
The High-low kurti not only gives you
stylish looks but also add feminine touch
to the attire.

61. HIGH-LOW KURTI
When to Wear: Party, Wedding, Casual,
Formal wear
Pairing: Leggings, Treggings, Jeggings, and
Skinny jeans
Accessories:Heels to enhance the look of
this contemporary kurti and Modern
jewelry
Flatters on/ Suit on: NA
Length: Short, Knee-length, Long

62. KAFTAN STYLE KURTI
This is western fashion, but recently it
makes prominent place in the most
favorite kurti trend.

63. KAFTAN STYLE KURTI
Available in full to short length, it
gives you gorgeous feminine look. It
is light in weight and loose-fitting.

64. PRINCESS CUT KURTI
Princess seams are created on kurti
for flattering feminine curves. They
are known as shaped seams which
can start from the shoulder or
armhole and end at the waist or
continue down, shaping the full
length of the garment across the
waist and hips

65. PRINCESS CUT KURTI
It is used for pattern fitting as well
as design elements. Generally, there
is no side opening in princess cut
kurti. Collar neck with button down
pattern or embroidered yoke and
3/4/full sleeves complete the royal
look of the kurti.

66. KAFTAN STYLE KURTI
When to Wear: Summer
favorite, Beach Parties, Casual
outing, Get- together, etc.
Pairing: Skinny Jeans, Jeggings,
ankle length or full tight slacks,
Leggings, Treggings and No
Bottom option
Accessories: Modern jewelry,
Goggles and heels to enhance
the slim, bottom look of outfit
Flatters on/ Suit on: Rectangle
Body shape
Length: Short, Knee-length

67. ASYMMETRIC KURTI
If you get bored of straight hemline,
just try kurti with asymmetrical
hemline. It gives illusion of height.
Glam Divas of bollywood love to wear
such kurtis to stand out of the crowd.

68. ASYMMETRIC KURTI
Generally, these kurtis are made of light
weight fabrics like chiffon, crepe and
georgette.

69. ASYMMETRIC KURTI
When to Wear: College, Traditional
ceremonies
Pairing: Contrast leggings, treggings,
Churidar, skinny jeans or jeggings
Accessories: Prefer classy jewelry,
but avoid neck pieces. Bracelet &
long earrings, sandals and clutch
Flatters on/ Suit on: Curvy body
Length: Short, Knee-length, Long

70. C-CUT KURTI
This trendy kurti is similar to high-low
kurti, but its front hem has ‘C’ shape
which makes it different from high low
kurti.

71. C-CUT KURTI
If you are tall women, C-cut kurti suits you
well. It also makes you look slimmer and
stylish.

72. C-CUT KURTI
When to Wear: Big occasions, Dinners,
Day wear, Daily Wear, Romantic Date,
Party
Pairing: Matching leggings, Designer or
Printed leggings, Treggings, Jeggings,
skinny jeans
Accessories: Fashionable or classic
jewelry, Pumps or Designer shoes,
Bracelet watches
Length: Short, Knee-length

73. TULIP KURTI
Tulip shaped kurti is a flattering must-have
style for any college going girl.

74. TULIP KURTI
Its trendy tulip shape design on hemline
makes it different from other kurtis and
helps you to create a long lasting
impression at any party or wedding.

75. TULIP KURTI
When to Wear: Daily Wear, Romantic Date,
Party, Festive, College
Pairing: Matching leggings, Designer or
Printed leggings, Jeggings
Accessories: Fashionable or classic jewelry,
Pumps or Designer shoes, Bracelet
watches
Length: Short, Knee-length, Full length

76. CHICKEN KURTI
Chicken kurti is the most favorite among youngsters.
It has traditional emboridery on it.
When to Wear: Any casual occasion
Pairing: Leggings, Churidar, Jeggings, etc.
Accessories: Chunky jewelry, Matching or contrast
pumps/flats
Flatters on/Suit on: Apple shape body, Pear shape body
Length: Short, Knee-length, Long

77. CHICKEN KURTI
Chicken kurti is the most favorite among
youngsters.
It has traditional emboridery on it.
When to Wear: Any casual occasion
Pairing: Leggings, Churidar, Jeggings, etc.
Accessories: Chunky jewelry, Matching or
contrast pumps/flats
Flatters on/Suit on: Apple shape body,
Pear shape body
Length: Short, Knee-length, Long

78. PLACEMENT EMB KURTI
In these types of surties mostly emboridery is done
mainly on neckline and on the border.

79. PLACEMENT EMB KURTI
When to Wear: Any casual occasion
Pairing: Leggings, Churidar, Jeggings, etc.
Accessories: Chunky jewelry, Matching or
contrast pumps/flats

80. PLACEMENT EMB KURTI
Flatters on/Suit on: Apple shape
body, Pear shape body
Length: Short, Knee-length, Long