The Kurta Sutra

Did you know that the kurta also called the kameez is derived from the French-Portuguese chemise. It resembles the Western shirt and has ...

Did you know that the kurta also called the kameez is derived from the French-Portuguese chemise. It resembles the Western shirt and has over the years seen various modification. Here we have a few guidelines on how to choose the kurta to suit from.

The Lucknowi kurta:
Similar to the A-line dress in the West it usually comes with a kali and traditional chikan embroidery. Almost anybody can carry it off.

The Pheran:
Wide bodied and longer in length than the Lucknowi kurta the pheran has its roots in Kashmir. Basically a shapeless garment it is ideal for a woman with a widely spreading figure as it conceals unsightly bulges.

The Kalidar kurta:
It has its origins in the ghagra/lehnga kalis or panels are sewn into the waist to widen the flare. Can be worn by all kinds of figures.

The Mughal kurta:
While the Lucknowi kurta or the pheran has no restrictive waistlines the Mughal kurta has a clinched waistline which is sometimes elasticised for convenience. It only looks good on a slender waist and lithe figure. This look is passe today.

The Anarkali kurta:
To the Mughal kurta a bolero or bodice was introduced, which heightened the drama. Only to be worn for a theatrical effect.

The Angarkha:
This kurta of two flaps one overlapping the other and tied together by strings. Popular with the ancient Rajasthanis, the Angarkha was really in vogue a couple of years back but today has seen a slight loss of favour.

The Front Opened kurta:
In between the kurta with a front opening is rather popular as also ones with a round shape. Not a good bet for those with a heavy lower body.

The Short kurta:
Reminiscent of Asha Parekh’s hey days the short kurta was revived last year, but faded out rather soon because it didn’t have many takers. Looks best teamed with churidars and requires an hour glass figure to carry it off.

The Straight kurta:
Very en vogue currently the straight kurta is no fuss and suits almost any figure. Interesting necklines add to the drama and poetry of the kurta.

The Tunic Style kurta:
Very haute. This kurta is a fashion runway special. With long side slits it can be teamed with almost anything: palazzos, a long skirt even tights. Great for a fusion look. Very young and trendy.