*From traditional to trendy, anarkalis have come a long way and are back in fashion these days. A few modifications from designers have changed the typical anarkali and now everyone from celebs to the young fashionistas are sporting a variety of anarkali-churidaars - be on the ramp, red carpet or even the streets. *
Anarkalis are a traditional style of clothing that was first brought to the fore in the 1960s. Yesteryears beauty Madhubala wore this flowing kurta-dupatta-churidaar ensemble in her landmark film Mughal-e-Azam, depicting women of the Mughal era who defined class and elegance. The reason why it is called so, is because of the cut of the kurta in which 6-8 or more kalis are stitched together to give the garment extra flare.
The latest trends in the anarkali are the floor-length kurtas. If the anarkali is heavily adorned then it can be paired with minimalist accessories and a pair of matching stilettos. On the other hand, if your anarkali is 'gemmed' in a subtle manner then it requires antique neck-pieces, matching handcuffs and a similarly adorned pair of shoes.
According to designer Jyoti Sharma, "The anarkali suit is not only a grand wear but gives traditional look too. Combined with embroidery and trending fabric, it looks elegant too. This dress can be worn on any occasion depending on the type of embroidery on the kurta. The lightly embroidered kurtas can be worn in casual parties while the heavily embroidered ones can be worn on weddings and other formal occasions."
Designer Heena Malhotra says, "This contemporary yet stylish adaptation encompasses a wide range of rich brocades, ultra-soft crepes, smooth georgettes and slightly thicker chiffons. A dab of nets and crepe adds a sensuous appeal to the outfit."
Regular ankle-length anarkalis can be beautified with net tulle or a stone-studded trail. These silhouettes will give them a little western twist. East meets West concept can also be infused through Persian and Victorian embroideries and shimmery Western styled cabochons.
So, which are the best body types that suit the ankle-length anarkali? Shouger Merchant Doshi, a designer says, "It suits almost everyone unless you are either short or butt-heavy. For a short person, the floor-length anarkali is not a great option as it may make you look shorter. However, even for girls who are busty or have large hips but a smaller waist in comparison, the anarkali reduces the waistline and makes you look thinner. If you are petite and of average height, a floor-length anarkali suits you as well."
There are many designs for floor-length anarkalis - the embroidery can be placed in different portions, the bustier can be printed or embroidered in a contrasting tone and the dupatta can also be of a contrasting shade as well. One can also change the look of a regular ankle-length anarkali. One can add layers, give different silhouettes by doing uneven layers in different colours or fabrics. Pair a net with a lace or a brocade with an embellished net or georgette.
But designer Aniket Satam gives few tips to avoid a fashion faux-pas. "Avoid stiff net, it puffs up and makes one look like a tent, instead use gossamer french tulle and laces along with fluid materials like georgette and chiffon for effortless fall. Avoid Indian textiles as they tend to grow outwards." Reported by Deccan Herald 23 minutes ago.
Anarkalis are a traditional style of clothing that was first brought to the fore in the 1960s. Yesteryears beauty Madhubala wore this flowing kurta-dupatta-churidaar ensemble in her landmark film Mughal-e-Azam, depicting women of the Mughal era who defined class and elegance. The reason why it is called so, is because of the cut of the kurta in which 6-8 or more kalis are stitched together to give the garment extra flare.
The latest trends in the anarkali are the floor-length kurtas. If the anarkali is heavily adorned then it can be paired with minimalist accessories and a pair of matching stilettos. On the other hand, if your anarkali is 'gemmed' in a subtle manner then it requires antique neck-pieces, matching handcuffs and a similarly adorned pair of shoes.
According to designer Jyoti Sharma, "The anarkali suit is not only a grand wear but gives traditional look too. Combined with embroidery and trending fabric, it looks elegant too. This dress can be worn on any occasion depending on the type of embroidery on the kurta. The lightly embroidered kurtas can be worn in casual parties while the heavily embroidered ones can be worn on weddings and other formal occasions."
Designer Heena Malhotra says, "This contemporary yet stylish adaptation encompasses a wide range of rich brocades, ultra-soft crepes, smooth georgettes and slightly thicker chiffons. A dab of nets and crepe adds a sensuous appeal to the outfit."
Regular ankle-length anarkalis can be beautified with net tulle or a stone-studded trail. These silhouettes will give them a little western twist. East meets West concept can also be infused through Persian and Victorian embroideries and shimmery Western styled cabochons.
So, which are the best body types that suit the ankle-length anarkali? Shouger Merchant Doshi, a designer says, "It suits almost everyone unless you are either short or butt-heavy. For a short person, the floor-length anarkali is not a great option as it may make you look shorter. However, even for girls who are busty or have large hips but a smaller waist in comparison, the anarkali reduces the waistline and makes you look thinner. If you are petite and of average height, a floor-length anarkali suits you as well."
There are many designs for floor-length anarkalis - the embroidery can be placed in different portions, the bustier can be printed or embroidered in a contrasting tone and the dupatta can also be of a contrasting shade as well. One can also change the look of a regular ankle-length anarkali. One can add layers, give different silhouettes by doing uneven layers in different colours or fabrics. Pair a net with a lace or a brocade with an embellished net or georgette.
But designer Aniket Satam gives few tips to avoid a fashion faux-pas. "Avoid stiff net, it puffs up and makes one look like a tent, instead use gossamer french tulle and laces along with fluid materials like georgette and chiffon for effortless fall. Avoid Indian textiles as they tend to grow outwards." Reported by Deccan Herald 23 minutes ago.