"ANARKALI" - A master piece!!

The anarkali kurti is a traditional Indian garment that has made a major comeback in women's fashion. Anarkali kurtis get their name from the mughal emperor Akbar's court dancer Anarkali, who was known to wear similar long, flowy kurtas. While anarkali kurtis have roots in traditional Indian attire, modern day designers have revived this style with new cuts, fabrics, colors and embellishments. 

Anora is one such brand that focuses on fashionable anarkali kurtis for the modern Indian woman. Anora anarkali kurtis come in a variety of fabrics like silk, chiffon, georgette, cotton and more. The revival of anarkalis has made them a popular choice for occasion wear as well as everyday ethnic wear. Anora offers trendy anarkali styles perfect for all ages and body types. In this article, we will explore the history, key features and latest designs of Anora anarkali kurtis.

Origins 

The anarkali kurti has a fascinating history behind its origins. This elegant and flattering silhouette traces its roots back to the Mughal era in the Indian subcontinent. 

The name "anarkali" itself comes from a famous courtesan named Anarkali who lived during the 16th century Mughal Empire. According to legend, Anarkali was ordered to be buried alive by the emperor Akbar for having an illicit affair with his son, Prince Salim. Her graceful dress style came to be known as the anarkali suit.

This regal outfit was originally worn by Mughal royal women in the emperor's harem. The flowing Anarkali became a symbol of aristocracy and luxury. Over the centuries, its elegance has endured and evolved into a timeless garment for Indian women today.

Inspiration

The anarkali style draws inspiration from traditional Indian and Mughal fashion. The origination of the style is often attributed to the court of the Mughal emperor Akbar, known for its lavish and decadent style. 

The name "anarkali" itself comes from the legend of a beautiful courtesan named Anarkali, who was the love interest of Akbar's son Salim. As the story goes, Anarkali was sentenced to death by being buried alive for her love affair with the prince. Her final request was to wear her favorite anarkali style garment as she met her fate.

This romantic legend helped popularize the anarkali silhouette, with its flowing shape created by the long, flared kurta worn over fitted churidar pants.The resurgence of anarkalis in Indian fashion pays homage to the rich cultural legacy of Mughal design, while reinventing it for the modern era.

Embellishments

The embroidery and embellishments on an Anora Anarkali Kurti are an integral part of the design. They add visual interest, texture, and embody the rich cultural history of Indian textiles. Common embellishments found on Anora Anarkali's include:

• Zardozi - This gold or silver embroidery uses fine metal wire on the fabric in intricate patterns. Zardozi helps accentuate the garment and gives it a luxurious look. Anarkalis often have zardozi work around the yoke, sleeves, and hemline.

• Gota - Gota refers to strips of gold or silver ribbons that are sewn onto the fabric. This embellishment traces its roots to royal costumes of the Mughals. Gota Patti on Anora Anarkali's creates defined patterns on the garment.

• Mirrorwork - As the name suggests, small mirrors are embroidered onto the fabric with colored thread. When mirrors catch the light, they glitter and shine. Mirrorwork is extensively used in the embroidery of anarkalis to create a dazzling effect.

• Sequins - Sequins are stitched onto the fabric to make present lavish patterns. Their shiny and reflective properties lend a glamorous look to the anarkali kurti. Sequin work is commonly seen on the yoke and sleeves of the garment.

• Embroidery - Decorative embroidery with silk or cotton threads is integral to Anora's anarkali kurtis. Popular embroidery styles include chickankari, tikki work, Kashmiri embroidery, etc. The motifs are reflective of Mughal influences and Indian art forms.

Silhouette

Anarkali Kurtis are known for their signature A-line silhouette that flares out from the waist down. This shape accentuates the waist and creates a graceful, flowing look. 

Traditional Anarkali silhouettes feature long, flared kameezzes that extend to the floor. Modern takes on the Anarkali play with the length, such as cropped Anarkali's that fall above the knee. Anarkali's may also incorporate asymmetrical hems or gathers and pleats to add drama.

No matter the length, Anarkali's are defined by their voluminous bottoms that provide an elegant, cascading effect. This contrasts beautifully with the fitted bodice to strike the perfect balance between structure and fluidity. When spinning and moving, the full skirt creates a glamorous sense of motion.

The timeless Anarkali silhouette flatters a range of body types. The fitted top slims the upper body, while the flared bottom conceals the midriff and lower body. This versatile shape makes Anarkali's an elegant choice for both casual and formal Indian wear.

Sleeves

The sleeves of the Anarkali kurti are a defining characteristic of the garment's silhouette and style. Anarkalis feature long, flowy sleeves that extend to the wrists or hands. This sets them apart from traditional short-sleeved kurtis. 

The voluminous sleeves billow around the arms, allowing for maximum ease and comfort. They also contribute to the grace and elegance of the Anarkali's shape. When the wearer lifts her arms, the sleeves create a beautiful draping effect.

Designers embellish the sleeves with intricate embroidery, mirrorwork, zari, gota patti work, and other embellishments. Contrast colored sleeves add a pop of color. Sheer net sleeves provide a delicate, translucent effect. 

The long sleeves balance and complement the flared lower half of the Anarkali. Without the sleeves, the look would lose its essence. The sleeves are an integral part of what makes the Anarkali shape so recognizable in Indian ethnic fashion. 

Conclusion

The anarkali kurti has a long and rich history in Indian fashion, stemming from the traditional outfit worn by courtesans in the Mughal era. Its voluminous silhouette, elegant fabrics, and intricate embellishments make the anarkali a regal garment that flatters the female form. 

Over the centuries, the anarkali has evolved with the changing tastes of each generation, from heavy brocades to flowy chiffons. Yet it retains its essential dramatic shape - fitted at the torso and flaring out towards the bottom. This timeless style continues to be a wardrobe staple and a red carpet favorite for Indian women today.