The Gharara suit, with its historical origins in Mughal-era fashion, is one of the most exquisite and timeless outfits in South Asian fashion. With a unique flared bottom and a matching kurta or tunic, the Gharara has always been a symbol of grandeur, grace, and elegance. In recent years, the Gharara suit has experienced a resurgence in popularity, not only because of its traditional appeal but also due to the creative ways it has been modernized to suit contemporary tastes. If you're looking to wear a Gharara suit and make it both traditional and trendy, there are countless ways to style it that will ensure you turn heads wherever you go.
In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into how you can style your Gharara suit to achieve a perfect balance of tradition and modernity, combining timeless elegance with contemporary flair. From the fabric and color choices to the accessories and styling tips, we’ll explore every detail that can help you look stylish, chic, and absolutely fabulous.
1. Choose the Right Fabric for the Perfect Vibe
One of the first steps in styling your Gharara suit is choosing the right fabric, as it sets the tone for the entire look. Traditionally, Ghararas were made from luxurious fabrics like silk, brocade, and velvet, which were perfect for grand occasions and weddings. However, with the changing trends, a variety of fabrics are now available to suit different needs, from casual get-togethers to more formal events.
Traditional Fabrics: If you're aiming for a more traditional look, fabrics like silk, brocade, and velvet are ideal. These luxurious materials have a rich texture and sheen, which give the outfit a regal and sophisticated touch. A Gharara made from silk or brocade can be paired with traditional gold or silver embroidery, creating a perfect balance of opulence and heritage. Velvet is another fabulous fabric for winter events, offering warmth and richness, making it ideal for evening gatherings.
Modern Fabrics: On the other hand, for a more relaxed and trendy vibe, consider lighter fabrics such as georgette, chiffon, crepe, or even cotton blends. These materials provide more comfort and ease, making them perfect for daytime events or summer weddings. A Gharara in georgette or chiffon drapes beautifully and moves effortlessly, giving you a more contemporary, breezy appearance while still exuding elegance. These fabrics can also be embellished with subtle embroidery or stonework for a delicate yet modern twist.
Tip: For an updated look, try mixing fabrics. For instance, a velvet kurta with a chiffon Gharara offers a perfect contrast of textures that creates visual interest and sophistication.
2. Play with Colors to Add Trendy Flair
Color plays a major role in defining the overall aesthetic of your Gharara suit. Traditionally, colors like deep red, emerald green, mustard yellow, royal blue, and rich maroon have been staples in South Asian bridal and festive wear. These hues exude a sense of festivity and grandeur, but if you're looking to add a modern twist to your look, consider experimenting with new color palettes.
Timeless Traditional Colors: If you’re seeking a classic look, opt for traditional colors like red, gold, navy blue, and deep maroon. These colors are timeless and have deep cultural significance, particularly for weddings and other important celebrations. For brides, a classic red Gharara remains a quintessential choice that oozes elegance, while jewel tones like emerald green and sapphire blue are also stunning choices for evening events.
Modern and Trendy Shades: For a more trendy feel, consider opting for pastel tones. Soft hues such as blush pink, lavender, mint green, and powder blue are not only modern but also very flattering and chic. These shades are perfect for events like engagement parties, baby showers, or casual festive occasions where you want to appear elegant yet fresh and youthful.
Another trendy option is metallic tones, such as silver, gold, and bronze. These shimmering hues not only make the Gharara suit look contemporary but also give off a strikingly sophisticated vibe. Metallic colors work especially well for evening wear or occasions where you want to stand out.
Tip: For a more eclectic and modern look, don’t be afraid to mix contrasting colors. Try pairing a mustard yellow top with a rich burgundy Gharara or combine a silver embroidered kurta with a gold-accented Gharara.
3. Experiment with a Contemporary Top or Tunic
The traditional Gharara suit consists of a long, flowing kurta or an anarkali-style top. However, to achieve a trendy and contemporary style, you can experiment with modern variations of the top.
Shorter Blouses or Crop Tops: For a contemporary touch, consider opting for a shorter blouse or a crop top paired with your Gharara. Crop tops with intricate embroidery, stonework, or sequins lend a fresh, youthful look to the ensemble. These modern tops can be designed in various styles, from high-neck options to off-shoulder or halter designs. The short length of the blouse will showcase the flared silhouette of the Gharara, creating a fashion-forward appearance.
Peplum Tops: Another option is a peplum-style top, which is both trendy and flattering. The peplum top cinches at the waist and flares out, creating a structured, feminine look. This is a great option if you want to add a modern silhouette while still maintaining the traditional charm of the Gharara. Peplum tops can be paired with a variety of Ghararas, from plain to heavily embellished ones.
Asymmetrical Kurtas: Asymmetrical kurtas are another great choice to modernize your Gharara suit. An asymmetrical hemline adds a contemporary edge to the outfit while still keeping the overall structure intact. The uneven length can be a fun and fashionable contrast to the flowing Gharara, making the ensemble look unique and trendy.
Tip: Try opting for a heavily embellished or embroidered top with a more plain, minimalistic Gharara for a modern take on the traditional look.
4. Incorporate Contemporary Embellishments
While the Gharara suit has always been known for its heavy embroidery and intricate details, you don’t need to go overboard with embellishments to achieve a trendy look. Instead, focus on subtle yet sophisticated ornamentation that strikes a balance between traditional and modern styles.
Traditional Embroidery with a Modern Twist: The classic embroidery techniques used in Gharara suits, such as zari, zardozi, resham, and gota patti work, are timeless and always look beautiful. However, today’s Ghararas feature these techniques in a more minimalistic or contemporary manner. Opt for light threadwork or delicate zari detailing for an elegant look that isn’t too heavy. Modern touches like crystal embellishments, mirror work, and sequins can also add a trendy element to the outfit without overwhelming it.
Geometric or Abstract Patterns: Instead of traditional floral or paisley motifs, contemporary Gharara suits often incorporate geometric or abstract patterns, giving the outfit a modern feel. These patterns can be added through embroidery or fabric prints, making the suit stand out as both traditional and edgy.
Tip: A Gharara suit with a mix of matte and glossy finishes in its embroidery can create visual interest and add texture, making it look contemporary and stylish.
5. Drape Your Dupatta in a Trendy Way
The dupatta is an essential part of the Gharara suit, and how you drape it can completely change the look of your outfit. While the traditional method involves draping the dupatta over both shoulders or across the head, there are many modern ways to wear it that are fresh, chic, and trendy.
Single Shoulder Drape: One of the simplest ways to update the dupatta drape is to wear it over one shoulder, letting it flow gracefully down your back. This style exudes sophistication and adds a contemporary twist to the look. The dupatta can be worn loosely or pinned at the shoulder for a cleaner appearance.
Cape or Shawl: Instead of a dupatta, consider pairing your Gharara suit with a chic cape or shawl. A velvet or silk cape with embroidery or embellishments can replace the traditional dupatta, giving your outfit a modern, fashionable edge.
Dramatic Drapes: For a truly avant-garde style, try draping the dupatta in a more dramatic fashion. You could create pleats and pin them at the waist, or try a longer, asymmetrical drape that flows across one arm, leaving the other side open.
Tip: Experiment with different draping styles, such as a modern shawl or scarf-style drape, for a fresh look. Also, if your Gharara already has a lot of embroidery, opt for a lighter, sheer dupatta to avoid overwhelming the outfit.
6. Accessorize Your Gharara Suit for the Perfect Trendy Look
Accessories are crucial to complete your Gharara suit, as they tie the entire outfit together. When it comes to accessorizing, you can either stick to traditional pieces or mix in modern elements.
Jewelry: For traditional jewelry, opt for classic pieces such as jhumkas (dangling earrings), maang tikka (headpiece), and kadas (bangles). However, you can modernize your look by combining these pieces with contemporary jewelry. A layered necklace or a sleek choker can add a trendy edge to your look. You could also experiment with mixing metals (gold, silver, rose gold) for a more eclectic and modern feel.
Footwear: Traditional footwear like juttis and mojris is a fantastic match for a Gharara suit. However, if you're aiming for a more contemporary look, opt for trendy block heels or stilettos. Wedges are also a great option for comfort and style, especially for outdoor events or summer weddings.
Clutches and Bags: A statement clutch or a modern minaudière (small evening bag) can add the perfect finishing touch to your outfit. Go for metallic or embellished clutches to elevate your Gharara suit, or opt for a simple, elegant clutch for a minimalist look.
Tip: Play around with layering jewelry or opting for statement pieces that complement the embroidery of your Gharara suit, keeping the balance between traditional and trendy.
7. Hairstyles and Makeup for a Modern Touch
Hairstyle and makeup are crucial in completing the traditional yet trendy look. While the Gharara suit already exudes grandeur, your hairstyle and makeup should reflect the same balance of tradition and modernity.
Hairstyles: For a modern yet traditional vibe, opt for classic hairstyles such as soft curls, waves, or a neat bun adorned with a delicate hairpin or floral accessory. If you’re aiming for a chic, bohemian look, loose waves or a braided crown can add a fresh touch to your overall appearance.
Makeup: Go for a balanced makeup look—bold brows, a soft smoky eye, and a neutral or bold lip color. Dewy skin with highlighter can give you that glowing, youthful appearance that works well with both traditional and trendy outfits. For brides or formal events, a bolder lip (like red or deep berry) can add a dramatic flair to your look.
Tip: If you want to make your look modern, opt for a minimalist makeup style with glowing skin and neutral tones for a fresh, youthful glow.
Conclusion
Styling your Gharara suit for a traditional yet trendy look involves balancing classic elements with modern touches. By carefully selecting the right fabric, color palette, and accessories, you can transform this timeless outfit into a chic and fashionable statement. Whether you’re attending a wedding, family gathering, or festive celebration, a well-styled Gharara suit will ensure you stand out with elegance and style.
By following the tips and tricks provided in this article, you can confidently rock a Gharara suit that’s both culturally rich and fashion-forward. Enjoy experimenting with different looks, and remember that the key to pulling off a trendy yet traditional Gharara suit is confidence, creativity, and the right attitude!
