Kurtas sit in that rare space where tradition and modern fashion actually get along. The core silhouettes have been around for decades, but every year the details shift — a different fabric here, an unexpected colour there — and suddenly something classic feels fresh again. 2026 is bringing bolder choices across the board, from velvet creeping into casual cuts to pastels taking over wedding-season Anarkalis. These five designs are the ones worth knowing about.
1. Straight Cut Kurtas
The straight cut works on practically every body type, which is why it never falls out of rotation. Clean lines, no fuss, easy to dress up or down depending on the fabric. Cotton handles daily and office wear without any issues. Silk takes the same shape and makes it evening-ready.
The 2026 addition worth noticing is subtle mirror work along the hems — enough to catch light without going overboard. Straight pants and Kolhapuri flats round it off nicely.
2. A Line Kurtas
Fitted at the waist, flared toward the hem — the A-line shape does the flattering on its own without much effort from anyone wearing it. Chanderi and silk fabrics give it a slightly dressy quality even on regular days, but the 2026 move turning heads is velvet. Emerald and burgundy velvet A-lines have been everywhere this season.
A maroon velvet version in particular is becoming one of those cold-weather pieces that gets pulled out week after week. Leggings and statement jhumkas complete the look without overcomplicating things.
3. Anarkali Kurtas
Fitted bodice, full flared skirt — Anarkalis were built for weddings and festivals, and they still own that space. Zari embroidery and brocade remain the go-to combination, but 2026 has shifted the colour story. Pastel shades — soft pinks, muted lavenders, powder blues — are replacing heavy jewel tones at daytime events. A Mughal-era silhouette in modern colours, and it works better than expected.
Churidar and a heavy dupatta finish it off. This is the design reserved for occasions where the outfit needs to hold its own in photographs.
4. Asymmetrical Kurtas
Uneven hemlines and unusual necklines push the kurta into more experimental territory. Georgette gives the asymmetry enough flow to look deliberate rather than odd. The specific trend picking up steam right now is side-slit asymmetrical cuts — longer on one side with a clean slit on the other, creating movement without overcomplicating the shape.
Palazzo pants keep the bottom half grounded while the kurta does its thing up top. Minimal jewellery — small studs, nothing fighting the hemline for attention. A solid pick for occasions that land somewhere between casual and formal.
5. High-Low Hemline Kurtas
Short at the front, long at the back. Simple idea, but it creates genuine movement, especially in chiffon or silk, where that longer back panel catches air. 2026 is pushing high-low cuts further into party wear with sequin detailing — an alternative for women who want something celebratory without going full lehenga.
Dhoti pants and block heels underneath give it a contemporary edge that matches the cut’s modern energy. One of those designs that photographs extremely well, which never hurts.