When it comes to styling ethnic wear like kurtis and kurtas, your outfit isn’t complete without the right hairstyle. These graceful garments reflect India’s rich cultural heritage and are versatile enough to wear on festive occasions, casual outings, or even formal workdays. But how you style your hair can elevate your whole look and create that perfect fusion of elegance and charm.
Whether you’re preparing for a traditional family function or just dressing up for brunch with friends, choosing the right hairstyle to go with your kurti or kurta can make all the difference. Let’s explore some of the best hairstyles that complement these timeless outfits
1. The Classic Neat Bun: Minimalism Meets Grace
A neat bun is a go-to hairstyle when you want to keep things sophisticated and low-maintenance. Whether high or low, buns work wonders with formal kurtas and festive anarkali kurtis. You can accessorize it with traditional pins or fresh flowers for a more festive vibe.
Perfect For: Office wear, traditional occasions, and saree-style kurtas
Hair Type: Medium to long hair
2. Braided Ponytail: The Chic Twist
Combining the elegance of braids and the convenience of ponytails, this hybrid style is both functional and stylish. It’s ideal when you want to keep hair off your face but still flaunt your length.
For kurtis and kurtas, consider simple yet elegant hairstyles like a neat bun, braided ponytail, or loose waves for a traditional touch. Modern options like half-up styles or open hair with side curls also work well, complementing the relaxed fit of the attire.
Perfect For: College, casual outings, or family dinners
Hair Type: Medium to long, manageable hair
3. Loose Waves: Soft, Romantic, and Always in Style
Loose waves add volume and texture while keeping your look effortlessly feminine. If you’re wearing a flared kurti or one with heavy embroidery, these soft curls help balance the silhouette.
Style Tip: Use a wide-barrel curler or braid damp hair overnight to get heat-free waves.
Perfect For: Date nights, family functions, or festive wear
Hair Type: Medium to long
4. Half-Up, Half-Down Hairstyle: Best of Both Worlds
A half-updo gives a contemporary flair to your ethnic wear. This versatile hairstyle keeps the front section tidy while letting the rest flow freely. It looks equally good with both short and long kurtis.
Perfect For: College fests, casual meetups, and fusion wear
Hair Type: All hair lengths
5. Open Hair with Side Curls: Glam Without Going Overboard
This hairstyle offers an elegant yet modern look. Side curls frame your face beautifully and add a structured finish to your ensemble. It’s great when you want to keep things simple but polished.
Style Tip: Add a side parting and secure with embellished pins for festive occasions.
Perfect For: Weddings, engagement parties, or Diwali get-togethers
Hair Type: Medium to long
6. Traditional Side Braid: The Evergreen Look
For a touch of tradition, a side braid is the perfect hairstyle on kurti for long hair. If your hair falls in the medium length category, a simple ponytail or a neatly tied bun can enhance your overall look effortlessly.
A well-done braid never goes out of style. Whether it’s a regular three-strand, fishtail, or French braid, it pairs beautifully with embroidered kurtis, cotton chikankari, or handloom pieces.
Perfect For: Religious ceremonies, cultural events, and festivals
Hair Type: Medium to long
7. Messy Bun: Effortless and Trendy
The messy bun is your quick-fix solution when you’re running late but still want to look put together. Pair it with a kurta and palazzo combo or a high-slit kurti for a modern yet ethnic appearance.
Style Tip: Leave out a few face-framing strands to keep it soft and casual.
Perfect For: Travel, casual lunches, and even work-from-home Zoom calls
Hair Type: Medium to long
8. Sleek Low Ponytail: Understated Elegance
A sleek low ponytail adds a polished vibe to your look. It works well with minimalistic kurtas or monochrome outfits and can be glammed up with a statement earring.
Perfect For: Formal events, office wear, or gallery visits
Hair Type: All hair types, especially straight or smooth hair
Styling Tips for Hair with Kurtis and Kurtas
- Match your hairstyle with your neckline. For example, if you’re wearing a boat neck or high-neck kurta, opt for updos or tied styles to show off the neckline.
- Add hair accessories like clips, maang tikka, or floral pins for a festive touch.
- Don’t skip the texture. Use mousse or curl enhancers if you’re going for waves or curls to maintain the look throughout the day.
- Keep your hair healthy. Traditional Indian attire pairs best with well-maintained, shiny hair. A regular oiling routine and trimming split ends can work wonders.
- Balance volume with outfit. Voluminous hairstyles like curls and loose buns work best with fitted kurtis. For flowy kurtas, stick to sleeker styles.
FAQs: Hairstyles for Kurtis and Kurtas
Q. What is the best hairstyle for a casual kurti?
For casual kurtis, go for simple styles like a ponytail, messy bun, or open hair. These are comfortable and require minimal effort.
Q. Which hairstyle suits round faces wearing kurtis?
Side braids, open waves, and layered half-updos help elongate round faces and frame them beautifully.
Q. Are braids still in trend with kurtas?
Absolutely! Braids have never gone out of style. Modern variations like fishtail or Dutch braids give a stylish twist to the traditional plait.
Q. What hairstyles work best for festive kurtis?
Loose curls, braided buns, or half-up hairstyles with accessories add glamour to your festive look.
5. How do I style short hair with kurtis?
Short-haired girls can opt for puffed crown styles, side-pinned waves, or sleek bob with a decorative clip. Keep the look neat and polished.
Final Thoughts
Your hairstyle is the finishing touch that ties your ethnic outfit together. Whether you love traditional braids or prefer modern curls, the key is to choose a style that complements both your attire and your personality. For kurtis and kurtas, consider simple yet elegant hairstyles like a neat bun, braided ponytail, or loose waves for a traditional touch. Modern options like half-up styles or open hair with side curls also work well, complementing the relaxed fit of the attire.
So next time you’re dressing up in your favorite kurti or kurta from GharanaIndia, don’t forget to crown your look with the perfect hairstyle!
