The Anarkali’s flared silhouette is naturally forgiving, but a few adjustments can make it even more flattering depending on your body type.
Pear-Shaped
The Anarkali is one of the most flattering cuts for a pear shape, since the flare naturally balances broader hips. A style with detailing concentrated on the bodice, like this embroidered Anarkali in green, draws the eye upward too.
Apple-Shaped
Look for Anarkalis with some definition at the waist (even if it’s just a fitted yoke) rather than styles that are loose all the way from the shoulders, which can add bulk through the middle.
Hourglass
Almost any Anarkali cut works well here, since the fitted bodice follows the natural waist before flaring out — the silhouette was practically designed for this shape.
Rectangle
An Anarkali is a great way to introduce curves visually — the flare from the waist creates shape where a straight kurti wouldn’t.
Petite Frames
Stick to knee-length or calf-length rather than floor-length to avoid the flare overwhelming a shorter frame.
More on choosing the right Anarkali in our complete Anarkali kurti guide.
