Banarasi to Chikankari: 5 dupattas every Indian girl needs in her closet

Time of India

6 days ago

Dupattas can elevate any outfit. The article suggests five essential styles. A printed cotton dupatta suits casual wear. Satin or silk adds glamour for evenings. Chiffon or georgette is perfect for hot days. Banarasi or Kanjeevaram makes a statement at events. Lucknowi Chikankari is ideal for daytime elegance.
Let's be honest, dupattas kind of get a bad rep. They're either too extra, too plain, or stuffed in the back of our wardrobes because we 'might wear them one day.' But truth is, the right dupattas can totally level up your outfit without much effort.
Whether you're a jeans-and-kurti kind of girl or into full-on ethnic glam, here are five dupattas you'll actually reach for again and again.
The everyday printed cotton one
This is your go-to for casual days when you want to look put together without trying too hard. Light, breezy cotton with cute block prints? Yes please.
Why you need it: It works with literally everything - basic kurtas, denim, even over tank tops if you're going for that Indo-boho vibe.
Pro tip: Keep one in your bag or car - you'll thank yourself when the outfit feels 'meh' and you need a quick fix.
The luxe satin or silk one
This is your 'date night but make it desi' dupatta. Think shiny, slinky, jewel tones that instantly scream glam.
Why it works: You could wear the most boring kurta and this will still make you look like you've made an effort.
Pro tip: Go for deep colours - wine, emerald, navy - they photograph so well and look fancy without being over the top.
The lightweight chiffon or georgette one
You know those days when it's too hot to care but you still want to look nice? This one's your saviour.
Why it's a fave: It's light, it flows, and it gives you that soft girl vibe. Also perfect for office wear.
Style tip: Belt it for a more fitted look or just throw it over one shoulder. No stress, all style.
The Banarasi or Kanjeevaram stunner
This is your 'big deal' dupatta - the one you pull out when there's a wedding, festival, or you just feel like making an entrance.
Why you should own it: It adds instant richness. Even if your outfit is basic, this dupatta will do all the talking.
Pro tip: Don't save it for just shaadis. Style it with jeans and a plain tee, you'll turn heads.
The soft Lucknowi Chikankari one
This one's just chef's kiss. Delicate, elegant, and kind of dreamy, it's perfect for daytime looks.
Why you'll love it: It's super light, has that soft embroidery, and goes with almost everything pastel.
Style tip: Pair it with a white or blush pink suit for that effortless pretty-girl vibe.
So how do you fit these into your wardrobe?
Here's a quick, no-fuss wardrobe plan:
On a rushed Monday, throw on your cotton printed dupatta over your basic kurti and pants - it'll give you that 'I tried' look without actually trying. For office meetings, the georgette or chiffon dupatta keeps things sleek and professional (and saves you from freezing ACs). Got a wedding to attend? Just layer your Banarasi dupatta over literally anything, and you're good to go.
Weekend brunch with the girls? The chikankari dupatta + pastel co-ords = chef's kiss.
And when you're feeling a bit extra or heading out for date night, the satin/silk dupatta brings the drama you deserve.
If you've been ignoring your dupatta drawer, it's time to revisit it. These five styles are total game-changers and not just for dressing up ethnic wear. They're lightweight, functional, and let's be real, they make you feel like that girl. So go ahead, mix them into your daily fits - you'll be surprised how much they can switch up your vibe.
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