16 Best Indian Outfits for Women
Hey there, gorgeous!
The world of Indian fashion is a treasure trove of vibrant colors, stunning designs, and rich traditions.
Whether you’re a seasoned saree connoisseur or just dipping your toes into ethnic wear, there’s something for everyone.
In this blog, we’ll be diving into some of the most popular styles, from the timeless saree to the dazzling lehenga.
We’ll talk about the different fabrics, trendy cuts, and the perfect styling tips based on the outfit. We’ll even sprinkle in some tips and tricks to help you style your look like a fashion pro.
So, get ready to unleash your inner style icon!
Best Indian Outfits for Women
1. Saree
The saree is a timeless piece of Indian heritage that exudes elegance and grace. It consists of a long piece of cloth, usually around 5 to 9 yards, that is artfully draped around the body, paired with a fitted blouse (choli) and a petticoat.
- How to Style It:
- Choose a saree fabric and design that complements the occasion; silk sarees for formal events and cotton or linen sarees for casual outings.
- Accessorize with statement jewelry such as jhumkas (traditional earrings) or a choker necklace to enhance the elegance.
- Opt for a blouse design that contrasts or complements the saree. Experiment with backless, halter neck, or high-neck designs.
- Finish the look with a pair of heels and a sleek, elegant hairstyle, like a bun adorned with jasmine flowers for a traditional touch.
2. Salwar Kameez
The salwar kameez is a comfortable yet fashionable outfit that consists of a long tunic (kameez), pants (salwar), and a scarf (dupatta). It’s perfect for daily wear as well as special occasions, depending on the fabric and embellishments.
- How to Style It:
- For a modern twist, pair your salwar kameez with palazzo pants or a straight-cut salwar.
- Embellish your outfit with a statement dupatta if your salwar kameez is plain. Alternatively, choose a simple dupatta to balance out a heavily embroidered kameez.
- Accessorize with bangles, earrings, or a statement ring to add a personal touch.
- Opt for juttis (traditional Indian footwear) or sandals that complement the color of your outfit.
3. Lehenga Choli
A lehenga choli is a festive outfit that consists of a long, flowing skirt (lehenga), a cropped blouse (choli), and a dupatta. It is often worn on special occasions like weddings and festivals.
- How to Style It:
- Choose a lehenga with detailed embroidery or embellishments for weddings and formal events. For casual events, go for simpler designs or prints.
- Coordinate your jewelry with the outfit’s work; kundan or polki sets work well with heavily embellished lehengas.
- Opt for a stylish yet comfortable pair of heels to complement the lehenga’s length and add poise to your walk.
- Consider a stylish updo or soft curls to showcase your earrings and neckline beautifully.
4. Anarkali Suit
The Anarkali suit is a regal and flowing outfit that features a long, frock-style top and slim-fitted bottoms. It’s named after the legendary courtesan from the Mughal era and is perfect for adding a touch of royal elegance to your wardrobe.
- How to Style It:
- Select an Anarkali of the right length according to your height; taller women can opt for floor-length Anarkalis, while petite women may prefer knee-length versions.
- Accessorize with statement earrings or a maang tikka (forehead ornament) to add to the royal look.
- For footwear, choose elegant heels or embroidered mojaris to maintain the outfit’s traditional charm.
- Style your hair in a sleek bun or open waves, depending on the occasion and your personal style.
5. Kurti and Jeans
A fusion of traditional and modern styles, pairing a kurti with jeans is perfect for casual outings, college, or even a casual day at work. It combines the comfort of Western wear with the elegance of Indian fashion.
- How to Style It:
- Choose a kurti in a bright color or with interesting patterns like block prints or embroidery for a vibrant look.
- Skinny jeans or straight-leg jeans work best to keep the look balanced and flattering.
- Accessorize with funky jewelry like large hoop earrings or layered necklaces to add a modern twist.
- Complete the look with open-toed sandals or casual sneakers for a relaxed yet stylish vibe.
6. Sharara Suit
A sharara suit includes a pair of wide-legged pants that flare out dramatically from the knees, paired with a short to medium-length kurti and a dupatta. It’s a glamorous outfit that’s gained popularity for festive occasions and weddings.
- How to Style It:
- Opt for a sharara set in luxurious fabrics like silk or georgette with detailed embroidery or sequin work for special occasions.
- Coordinate your outfit with traditional jewelry such as chandelier earrings or a statement necklace.
- Choose embellished flats or heels depending on the event and your comfort level.
- Style your hair in soft curls or an elegant updo to complement the outfit’s sophistication.
7. Saree Gown
The saree gown is a modern interpretation of the traditional saree, offering the silhouette of a gown with the essence of a saree. It’s perfect for those who love the look of a saree but prefer the convenience of a gown.
- How to Style It:
- Look for a saree gown with intricate details like beadwork or embroidery to make a statement.
- Minimalistic jewelry works best with this outfit to keep the focus on the gown’s design. Think sleek bracelets and stud earrings.
- Opt for high heels to elevate the gown’s elegance and to add grace to your walk.
- Choose a simple yet chic hairstyle, such as a low bun or soft waves, to keep the outfit’s modern vibe.
8. Dhoti Style Outfit
Inspired by the traditional dhoti garment, this contemporary outfit consists of dhoti-style pants paired with a stylish top or tunic, often accompanied by a dupatta. It’s known for its comfort and chic, avant-garde look.
- How to Style It:
- Select a dhoti set in bold colors or with contemporary prints to stand out.
- Accessorize with modern jewelry like geometric-shaped earrings or a sleek cuff bracelet to complement the outfit’s edgy design.
- Pair with statement flats or casual loafers for a balanced look.
- Go for a minimalistic hairdo, like a sleek ponytail or an effortless bun, to keep the focus on the outfit.
9. Indo-Western Gown
Indo-Western gowns are a chic blend of Indian embroidery and Western gown cuts, perfect for formal events, cocktail parties, or modern weddings. They often feature intricate work and a fusion of motifs.
- How to Style It:
- Choose a gown with Indian motifs or embroidery for a unique look.
- Accessorize with minimalistic jewelry to let the gown be the centerpiece, perhaps a pair of elegant drop earrings or a sleek bracelet.
- Opt for stylish heels that complement the color of your gown.
- Consider an elegant updo or soft waves with a side part to add sophistication to your ensemble.
10. Patiala Suit
The Patiala suit consists of a pleated, baggy style of pants that are tight at the bottom, paired with a short kameez (tunic) and a dupatta. It’s known for its comfort and flair, making it a popular choice for daily wear and informal gatherings.
- How to Style It:
- Pick a vibrant, printed Patiala salwar with a solid-colored kameez to balance the look.
- Accessorize with traditional Punjabi juttis (footwear) and colorful bangles.
- Opt for simple jewelry, like stud earrings or a small pendant necklace.
- Keep your hair open or tie it in a ponytail to keep the focus on the outfit’s vibrancy.
11. Churidar and Angrakha
The churidar and angrakha combination brings together the slim fit of churidar pants with the wrap-around style of the angrakha top, which ties at the side and often has elaborate tassels or embroidery.
- How to Style It:
- Look for angrakha tops in rich fabrics like silk or velvet, with traditional Indian embroidery or block prints.
- Accessorize with ethnic footwear, like embellished sandals or mojaris.
- Choose traditional jewelry, such as a pair of jhumka earrings or a statement ring.
- Style your hair in a low bun or a braid adorned with small flowers for a traditional look.
12. Crop Top and Skirt
This trendy outfit pairs a cropped top with a high-waisted long skirt, offering a modern twist on the traditional lehenga. It’s a popular choice for semi-formal and festive occasions, especially among younger women.
- How to Style It:
- Select a skirt with vibrant prints or embellishments and pair it with a contrasting solid or subtly embroidered crop top.
- Accessorize with contemporary jewelry pieces like layered necklaces or a chic cuff.
- Opt for high heels or wedges to add elegance to your posture and overall look.
- Choose a hairstyle that complements the outfit’s modern vibe, such as loose curls or a sleek ponytail.
13. Kaftan Style Kurti
Kaftan style kurtis are a blend of comfort and style, characterized by their loose, flowing silhouette and often adorned with vibrant prints or delicate embroidery. They’re ideal for casual outings, resort wear, or even as comfortable work-from-home attire.
- How to Style It:
- Opt for a kaftan kurti in a lightweight fabric like cotton or silk, featuring bright colors or ethnic prints.
- Accessorize with bohemian jewelry, such as beaded necklaces or chunky silver earrings.
- Pair with leggings or straight pants if the kaftan is short; otherwise, it can be worn as a dress.
- Complete the look with open-toe sandals or flats for a relaxed, boho-chic vibe.
14. Palazzo Suit
The palazzo suit is a contemporary outfit consisting of wide-legged palazzo pants paired with a straight-cut or A-line kurti and often accompanied by a dupatta. It’s known for its blend of comfort and modern elegance, suitable for office wear, casual outings, and semi-formal events.
- How to Style It:
- Choose a palazzo set in soft, breathable fabrics like georgette or cotton, with minimalistic prints or solid colors for a sophisticated look.
- Accessorize with statement earrings or a sleek watch to add a touch of glamour.
- Select comfortable yet stylish footwear, such as wedges or block heels, to complement the flow of the palazzo pants.
- Opt for a simple hairdo, like a high ponytail or loose waves, to keep the look chic and effortless.
15. Silk Saree
Silk sarees are the epitome of Indian elegance and tradition, favored for their rich textures and luminous sheen. Perfect for weddings, festivals, and formal gatherings, they come in various styles, including Banarasi, Kanjeevaram, and Tussar.
- How to Style It:
- Drape the silk saree traditionally or experiment with modern draping styles to suit the occasion and your personal style.
- Pair with a custom blouse that complements the saree’s design—think high-neck blouses for a sophisticated look or backless designs for a touch of glamour.
- Accessorize with gold or silver jewelry, depending on the saree’s undertone, including bangles, earrings, and a statement necklace.
- Consider an elegant updo or a traditional braid adorned with jasmine flowers to enhance the outfit’s grace.
16. Jacket Style Lehenga
The jacket style lehenga adds a contemporary twist to traditional lehengas by incorporating a long or short jacket over the lehenga skirt, often replacing the dupatta. This style is versatile, suitable for winter weddings, and offers a unique silhouette.
- How to Style It:
- Choose a jacket with intricate embroidery or embellishments that match or contrast with the lehenga skirt for a cohesive look.
- Opt for a jacket in velvet or silk for added luxury and warmth during cooler months.
- Accessorize with minimalistic yet elegant jewelry, like stud earrings and a single statement ring, to avoid overwhelming the outfit.
- Select stylish yet comfortable footwear, such as embellished flats or low heels, to navigate long events with ease.
