Tara Sutaria in Punit Balana
The humble kurta has its roots in and has evolved out of the nomadic tunics of Central Asia. In fact, some claim that the word ‘kurta’ originates from the Persian word for a collarless shirt while others say it has Sanskrit/ Urdu origins. Over the years it became one of the most popular forms of clothing worn by people in the South Asian subcontinent.
Made out a variety of fabrics from cotton to silk and jute to khadi this article of clothing was also fashioned in different styles, all named after the states they came from. So you’d have the Lucknowi kurta famous for its overlapping panels; the Hyderabadi variants distinguished by the keyhole opening at the neck; the straight-cut Punjabi kameez and more.
Maayera Jaipu
But gone are the days when it was worn out only for errands or given step treatment in one’s wardrobes. Originally designed for and worn primarily by men, the kurta’s reputation has moved on to become a favoured look for festivities today. For many, it is an everyday staple. But dressier versions have finally seeped into occasion wear wardrobes too today.
Anita Dongre
Industry veterans like Anita Dongre, Ritu Kumar, Payal Singhal and Varun Bahl have found ways to elevate the classic style by interspersing it with fun cuts, cheery colours, unique embroideries and pretty prints.
Varun Bahl
Then there’s the newer designers like Punit Balana, Abhinav Mishra and Ridhi Mehra who infuse dollops of modern zest into their designs. Think: peplum short kurtas paired with dhoti pants, tiered and flared anarkalis donned with delicate sequin work, sheer kurtas worn with churidar pants and hand-embroidered, floor-length jackets. Torani, Devnaagri, Mulmul and Maayera Jaipur ace everyday chic with their simple yet stylish kurta sets. The choices are endless.
Take your pick with our kurta selection, available to shop, here.
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