Whether it’s a festive occasion, wedding party, college event or family celebration, anarkali dresses effortlessly elevate your look. Influenced by the Mughal era, anarkalis, today, are a big part of the traditional Indian wardrobe. Although deeply rooted in our ancient culture, they still hold relevance owing to their classic stitch pattern and contemporary appeal.
The word anarkali translates to ‘blossoming pomegranate’, and as the name suggests, it’s a flowy, fit-and-flare salwar suit that complements almost all body types. It comprises a salwar, which are usually slim-fitting pants that can be replaced with a comfortable pair of leggings. The kameez hugs your upper torso, cinches the waist, and billows up to the knee length.
Even though Anarkali dresses draw vintage inspiration, they are popular among the newer generation for reasons aplenty. Let’s take a look at a few reasons why Anarkali dresses are a staple in women’s wardrobes.
1. Flattering Silhouette
Whether your body type is hourglass-shaped, apple, pear, or rectangle, an anarkali will complement your build. Anarkali dresses are designed to highlight the waist and make it look more snatched, thus offering every body type a flattering silhouette.
2. Cultural Heritage
Styling or simply wearing an Anarkali is like carrying a piece of history with you. The Anarkali-style salwar suit hails from the Mughal era and adorning this attire keeps the rich cultural fervour alive in us all, even in a time when modern, Western influences have deeply impacted our sartorial choices.
3, Fabrics & Designs
Anarkali dresses are available in a variety of fabrics and design options. From linen to silk, cotton, and satin, and from flattering floral prints to a bandhani design, you can find an Anarkali in myriad styles, so much so that you are going to be spoilt for choice.
4. Versatility
Since Anarkali dresses are available in such a wide range of fabrics and designs, they tend to be an extremely versatile silhouette. From an intimate puja at home to the quintessential big-fat-Indian wedding, you can style Anarkalis for multiple events. The classic design and room for customisation make the Anarkali dress a go-to for any traditional affair.
5. Comfort
Even though Anarkalis exude a regal appeal, they are super convenient and comfortable to style and wear all day long. Unlike sarees, your leg movements aren’t restricted and unlike dresses, you needn’t worry about sitting uncomfortably. Anarkalis offer the best of both worlds, inviting a dash of sophistication and regality to your comfortable look.
6. Timeless Appeal
The flow of an Anarkali dress is as royal as it can get, while the elaborate and sophisticated stitching techniques scream modernity. It is a timeless piece nonetheless, one that will never go out of style owing to its comfort, elegance, and versatility. The perfect outfit to add and retain in your capsule wardrobe.
7. Perfect For All Ages
Whether you are in your 20s, 30s, or even in your 50s, an Anarkali dress can be your go-to choice across events. Not only do Anarkalis flatter all body types, but they also look good on every age group, skin tone, and personality. You can customise the length, fit, flare, colours, material, and design, among other things, to cater to your preferences.
8. Multifunctional
Unlike a regular kameez or kurta, an Anarkali doesn’t have a slit on either side. This means that you can style an Anarkali as either a dress or a gown, depending on the length of the ensemble. If your Anarkali is designed in a more contemporary style, you can easily do away with the salwar or leggings and turn it into a gown with Indo-Western jewellery and accessories.
Parting Thoughts
In conclusion, if you choose to buy Anarkali dresses, trust us, it’s going to sit in your wardrobe for times to come, as chances are low it’ll go out of style. Anarkalis flatter every body type, skin tone, personality, height, and age group. They are also very versatile since they can be styled for myriad events, be it a low-key wedding, religious festival, or even an office party. You may choose to dress up your Anarkali with the right accessories or embrace its simplicity with minimal bijoux. Either way, your ensemble will make heads turn.
Anarkalis are also multifunctional, as you may choose to ditch the pants for a more modern appeal. You can also style this piece as a gown or a frock, depending on the occasion. Plus, anarkalis are available in a variety of fabrics, patterns, and designs. They tend to bridge the gap between traditional and contemporary and classic and modern. Besides, they are super comfortable yet sophisticated for formal events. When on the hunt for the perfect anarkali dress, buy one that suits your skin tone by selecting complementary hues, a neckline that suits your body type, and a length that suits your height.