Five ways to rock the classic anarkali

When it comes to desi fashion, nothing beats the classic look of a well-tailored anarkali. Usually composing of a fitted bodice with an attached flowy skirt, an anarkali is often paired with a churidar. One of the most versatile items of clothing out there, you can go for an embellished anarkali if you’re on the lookout for a guaranteed wedding season hit, or a breezy cotton one for when you’re going out on a lunch date with friends.  With some help from Vogue India, we have compiled a list of Bollywood babes rocking anarkalis for all your fashion inspo needs.

From Kareena Kapoor’s heavily-embellished baby pink anarkali fit for a queen, all the way to Kriti Sanon’s casual sunshine yellow anarkali perfect for a hot summer day, this is one outfit fit for any occasion! 

Kareena Kapoor 

We absolutely adore this look! The soft pink colour is perfect for a daytime wedding and the fact that the Udta Punjab actor has kept her hair tied tightly in a slick bun helps keep the look clean and suitable for a hot day. Keeping the neck bare is a smart choice to keep the focus on the outfit, accessorising with only a pair of traditional earrings to tie the look together. Kareena’s makeup has also been kept to a minimum, with a soft pink pout and kohl-rimmed eyes. This is a look we are definitely stealing for the next day wedding we’re invited to! 

Karisma Kapoor

A great fashion sense seems to come naturally to this pair of superstar sisters. Unlike Kareena’s light, summery number, Karisma has opted for a deep blue anarkali, embellished along the edges with gold. Blue and gold is a royal combination, and the 90s icon carries it effortlessly. The gold khussas and statement green-stone rings complement the look very well, and the smokey eyes add so much to the overall look!  

Kriti Sanon 

Kriti may be relatively new to Bollywood, but the diva definitely knows how to serve a look! The actor opted for a breezy yellow block-printed anarkali, pairing it with khussas and heavy gold earrings. The deep neckline and loose pieces of hair framing the face help elevate the look, and the way Kriti has draped the dupatta around her shoulders while posing for the photos adds a touch of grace to the overall look. 

Alia Bhatt

White and summer are a match made in fashion heaven, and Alia knows it! The Highway actor looks positively stunning in a white anarkali. The fact that the white embellishment blends into the back helps keep this look understated, yet oh so elegant. The soft waves in her hair and dangly gold jhumkas give the look a romantic feel, and it’s safe to say that Alia knows exactly how to rock it.

Jhanvi Kapoor 

A perfect example of how to incorporate anarkalis into your everyday wardrobe, Jhanvi’s green anarkali is ticking all of our boxes. The delicate chiffon dupatta, gold trim and all-over floral print makes this the perfect outfit for when you need to run errands or step out for work, but want to look fashionable while doing so. Jhanvi pairs the outfit with contrasting pink khussas and accessorises with a casual mirror-work cross-body bag and tiny jhumkis.