While we know that trends always make a comeback, the iconic silhouette of Anarkalis has always been way more than just a trend. That said, after being spotted on practically everyone, in every way, in every fabric imaginable, during the early 2010s, Anarkali dresses had paved the way for many other silhouettes. Loose kurtas with palazzos, straight pants, and, in recent years, even the farshi pants have been more common. Most of the casual options offer palazzos and straight pants, while couture has been more focused on ghararas, farshis, Pakistani lawn cuts, and more.
With this year’s couture shows, however, that seems to be changing. While there are, of course, a wide variety of outfits, what caught our eye was the re-emergence of the good old Anarkalis. From the opulent sets at Rohit Bal, to Torani’s zari embroidered beauties, to Papa Don’t Preach by Shubhika’s vibrant hues, Anarkalis this year are a sight to behold. On the more casual end too, Janhvi Kapoor was recently spotted wearing a gorgeous hand-painted anarkali set by Pichhika, and we are sure, more actors will soon be seen sporting more of the silhouette.
History of the Anarkali silhouette
If you are a millennial girlie, you might remember being obsessed with anarkali dresses for school and college farewells, thanks to the umpteen looks by Bollywood actresses. There were Kareena Kapoor Khan’s flowy anarkali sets in Kurbaan, Deepika Padukone’s casual yet chic anarkali kurtas in Love Aajkal, and by the mid-2010s, every designer from Manish Malhotra to Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla had floor-sweeping versions of the silhouette. But the love for anarkali dresses is way older.
The Anarkali outfit finds its roots in the grandeur of the Mughal courts. Named for the famed (and according to some historians, fabled) courtesan Anarkali, who enchanted Prince Salim, the ensemble represents elegance and beauty. Made from opulent materials like silk and brocade and embellished with elaborate zari work and jewel-toned hues, it was distinguished by a long, frock-style top with a fitted bodice and a wide skirt. Reflecting the splendour of the Mughal era, the anarkali dresses were a favourite among noblewomen and embodied imperial grace.
The Anarkali silhouette made its way to mainstream Bollywood in the 1980s, fusing classic charm with modern flair. Anarkali outfits that were fitted to the changing fashion tastes of the time were the result of this era's blending of Indian and Western features.
The Anarkali saw a glitzy resurgence in the 2010s as Bollywood embraced its regal allure once again. The Anarkali became a mainstay for weddings and other festive occasions after actresses like Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Sonam Kapoor Ahuja donned it in movies and for public appearances. This time around, the designers reinterpreted the shape, keeping its timeless appeal while adding modern fabrics and embellishments.
Anarkali suits in 2025
The festive season has just begun, and if you still haven’t finalised your outfits, anarkali suit seems to be a great option this year. Here are some celeb outfit inspos you should check out.
Huma Qureshi’s red anarkali by Abu Jani & Sandeep Khosla
Red is easily one of the most worn colours in the festive season, and embellished with golden details, this anarkali suit from the designers Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla is one of the most beautiful renditions of the silhouette. With crushed texture, solid colour, and the gracious fluidic movement, this anarkali suit will go perfectly with both a messy bun as well as sleek updo like that of Huma Qureshi.
Dia Mirza’s classic anarkali
If you want a classic anarkali suit, Dia Mirza’s gorgeous outfit from Ritu Kumar is a scene stealer. Traditional buta design, the churidar, gota border, and styling with a fresh rose, Dia Mirza’s look is perfect to take from Diwali pooja to an afterparty with friends. You can pair it with golden strappy heels for a more monochromatic look, or if comfort is your thing, opt for juttis.
Abhinav Mishra’s mirror work anarkali
Want lighter colours? Designer Abhinav Mishra’s ivory floor-length anarkali with mirror work is just the perfect festive outfit inspo you need. We love the styling with the choker but if you’re opting for a smaller neckline, go for matching jhumkas. A messy updo with barely there makeup will make the outfit be the spotlight of your look.
Bhumi Pednekar’s sage green anarkali from Punit Balana
Exquisite and awe-inspiring, Bhumi Pednekar’s Punit Balana anarkali is what dreams are made of. Adorned with their signature Chandi Tille Ka Kaam, this anarkali set is best styled the way Bhumi wore it. Big jewellery pieces would clash big time with the detailed work on the kurta, so keeping it simple with studs is a great idea. While we love the soft layers, you can also opt for a sleek updo.
Aditi Rao Hydari’s colourful anarkali from Torani
A festive anarkali suit doesn’t have to be a solid colour embellished with metallic details only. And Aditi Rao Hydari’s anarkali from Torani is just the festive outfit inspo if you like a riot of colours. Adorned with embellishments, embroidery, and a melange of prints, this is perfect for folks who like to keep things simple and stylish.
If anarkali doesn’t do it for you, we have a bunch of other suggestions. Check out these festive outfit ideas too! Wanna have matching outfits? Here's a quick guide for festive outfits for men.