Alia Bhatt, Sonam Kapoor Ahuja will inspire you to invest in anarkalis this festive season

By Yashna Chopra9 September 2019

From heavily embroidered numbers to printed versions, here’s how your favourite celebrities are wearing their anarkalis

Along with lehengas, saris and sharara sets, anarkalis make for a non-negotiable part of most Indian festive wardrobes. The ethnic staple features a flared tunic style silhouette that is not only easy to manage, but can also be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Whether you’re looking for an outfit for a wintery Diwali party of a summertime mehandi ceremony, anarkalis can help you make a statement no matter where you take them, all while keeping your hands free as you enjoy the celebrations.

Celebrities have already proved the versatility of the anarkali, wearing them for everything from red carpet events to promotional outings. Alia Bhatt was spotted in not one, but two anarkalis during her Kalank promotions—an elegant off-white and gold anarkali by Masaba Gupta, and a deep purple set by Anamika Khanna, embroidered with delicate birds and flowers in shades of gold, pale green and powder pink. Karisma Kapoor gave her vote to an ivory anarkali by Varun Bahl Couture, serving the ideal inspiration for those who prefer muted hues, Janhvi Kapoor took an ivory and gold anarkali by Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla to the annual Umang Mumbai Police Show, and Sonam Kapoor Ahuja gave a nod to a high-necked all-red number featuring metallic details by Masaba.

If you’re looking for something more dressed down, printed anarkalis will be best bet. Kriti Sanon took printed Anita Dongre anarkali in yellow to her Arjun Patiala promotions, and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan wore a red and black printed number by Rohit Bal for an event. Love florals? Aditi Rao Hydari’s black Nachiket Barve, featuring pink flowers all over, may just be the one for you. Scroll ahead all the celebrity inspiration you need on how to style anarkalis this festive season.

Alia Bhatt in Masaba