JOIN USRushing to a meeting followed by a dinner party and want to look sophisticated yet stylish? Go for the ankle-length ‘kurta’. While the ‘kurta’ is an integral part of the Indian woman’s wardrobe, a twist to the outfit is the ankle-length ‘kurta’, which is being teamed with different options for an interesting yet versatile look.
Trends keep changing by the day and one can see the most traditional designs and patterns being revamped or making a comeback. Mix and match is the formula now and youngsters are experimenting while teaming these elegant ‘kurtas’ with leggings or even skirts and accessorising the look with jewellery and an elaborate hairdo.
Faiza Begum, a young professional, says that these ‘kurtas’ give the wearer a lavish look, especially during special occasions like weddings and ‘mehendi’ functions. “I love these ‘kurtas’ as they look beautiful as part of an ensemble or even by themselves. I love dressing up by matching these with a neckpiece and elaborate earrings. One can also wear the simpler versions having basic prints with jeggings or jeans to work. While they are available in a wide variety in many colours and cuts, I love the flaired ones as well as the flowing straight cut ones,” she says.
Striking the right balance between the traditional and modern is what most people are looking for. Youngsters like Nireeksha Alva, a dancer, like the ankle-length ‘kurta’ in bright colours, with varied cuts and styles, according to the occasion. “I like them in colours like royal blue or red as they make the wearer stand out in a crowd. These ‘kurtas’ are available with side slits and slits on the back too,” she adds. Nireeksha likes experimenting with these ‘kurtas’ without looking odd. “One can even wear these with tattered denims or take it a step further by wearing them with shorts,” adds Nireeksha.
Ankle-length ‘kurtas’ with three quarter sleeves or even cap sleeves are creating a buzz. Kasturi Devnath, a designer who has a shop on Commercial Street, says that most people come asking for floral patterned ankle-length ‘kurtas’ with varied sleeve styles.
“From teenagers and young professionals to homemakers, people opt to buy these ‘kurtas’ in solid colours and printed versions so they can mix and match. These ‘kurtas’ make the wearer look elegant yet chic,” adds Kasturi.
From designer creations to outfits in branded stores, there are plenty of choices in ankle-length ‘kurtas’. “They are the hottest addition to the Indian woman’s wardrobe at the moment. The ‘salwar’ is making its way out and most people are wearing trousers or palazzo pants with these ‘kurtas’ to make their own style statements,” says designer Ritu Kumar. While the ‘kurta’ is a basic item in the wardrobe, Ritu feels that ankle-length ‘kurtas’ are an elegant version of the same.
From layered to asymmetrical, with or without additions like side buttons to loops or a cowl bottom, the ‘kurta’ is transforming the possibilities one can play around with.
“The longer the kurta, the more additions to the garment which make it unique. While the short ‘kurtas’ continue to make for daily wear, these ‘kurtas’ are a great solution for club wear and other occasions as well,” adds Ritu. The ankle-length ‘kurta’ suits the climate and is comfortable to wear because it is loose and flowing. “At most times, the fabric used is soft. Also, the outfit is flattering for most people. There is enough room to play around with,” she says.
There are some guidelines to go by when opting for an ankle-length ‘kurta’. Shammy Choraria, a fashion designer in the city, says, “Straight ‘kurtas’ look great on tall and slim people, while an ankle-length ‘kurta’ with some flair works great for someone on the heavier side,” she says.
Shammy feels that these ‘kurtas’ are a new trend and might have been inspired from the ‘anarkali’ or floor-length ‘anarkalis’. From the front-open style to the high-collared versions, these are available in materials like cotton and georgette.
“For daily and casual wear, the cotton ones work best, while for parties and occasions, the georgette with its flowing feel makes the wearer look stunning. We have worked on these ‘kurtas’ with mirror detailing and more,” she adds. She says that one can wear it even with ‘lehengas’ or ‘skirts’ for a dressy look. So what are the fashionistas waiting for? Floor people with these ‘kurtas’ and make those heads turn.