The main anarkali suit types are floor-length, knee-length, jacket-style, angrakha, layered and kalidar, and each one changes how the outfit looks and moves. At House of Daisy on Golf Course Road, Gurugram, we find that once women know these names, choosing becomes much easier, because they can say exactly what they want.
Floor-length anarkali
The classic. The kurta falls to the floor or just above it, flaring from the waist or under the bust. It is the most formal of the types and the closest to a gown in feel. Wear it to festive evenings, family weddings as a guest and big pujas. Ask for the hem to sit just above the floor in the shoes you will wear, so you do not trip on stairs.
Knee-length anarkali
Shorter and lighter, ending around the knee. It shows the bottom you wear underneath, whether a churidar, a palazzo or a sharara, and it is easier to walk and sit in. It suits daytime functions, festive lunches and anyone who finds a full-length kurta too much fabric.
Jacket anarkali
An anarkali with a jacket over it, either attached or separate. The jacket can be short, hip length or long and open at the front. It adds structure, warmth and a second layer of embroidery, and often replaces the dupatta. Lovely for winter evenings.
Angrakha anarkali
The bodice overlaps across the front, like a wrap, and ties at the side, often with dori and tassels. The overlap creates a soft V and a gentle diagonal line across the chest. It looks graceful and slightly traditional, and it suits many figures because the wrap can be adjusted to sit comfortably.
Layered anarkali
Here the flare is built from tiers or several layers of fabric, often in net, organza or georgette, so the skirt looks fuller and floatier. It photographs beautifully and moves well, but it carries more fabric, so a lined, breathable inner layer matters.
Kalidar anarkali
Kalis are the long, triangular panels that make the flare. A kalidar anarkali shows these panels clearly, sometimes with piping or a contrast between them. More kalis mean a fuller circle when you turn. It is a classic choice for anyone who loves a twirl.
Do the necklines and sleeves change with the type?
They can, and they change the feel as much as the length does. A sweetheart or deep round neck suits a festive floor-length piece, while a high neck or a collared yoke looks crisp on a knee-length one. Sleeves run from sleeveless and cap to elbow, three-quarter and full. Full sleeves in a sheer fabric add elegance without warmth. When you look at types, notice the neckline too, because it decides whether you will want a dupatta at all.
Which type should I choose?
- For a long day: knee-length or a light floor-length.
- For a cold evening: jacket anarkali.
- For dancing: kalidar or layered.
- For a graceful, traditional look: angrakha.
- For a formal evening: floor-length with rich work.
Can I see them in person?
Our anarkali collection shows the ready styles we have now. On most ready-made suits, the neckline or sleeves can be changed, usually within about a week. Any of these types can also be made to order. The first design consultation is free, in the showroom or on a video call, and the designer shares a sketch for your approval before anything is made. Pieces we make to order are made to your measurements and hand-embroidered in our atelier. For a festive or party outfit, order 3 to 4 weeks ahead.
Visit us at Shop 226A, 2nd Floor, DT Mega Mall, Golf Course Road, DLF Phase 1, Sector 28, Gurugram, open every day from 11 AM to 9 PM. Read more about visiting House of Daisy.
Common questions
Which anarkali type is the most traditional?
The floor-length kalidar and the angrakha both feel classic. The jacket and layered styles feel more contemporary.
Which type is easiest to wear all day?
A knee-length anarkali in a light fabric.
What does kali mean in an anarkali?
A kali is one of the long panels that create the flare. More kalis usually mean a fuller twirl.
Can I combine two types, such as angrakha and jacket?
Yes, made to order. Your designer can sketch the combination for your approval.
Angrakha anarkali kya hota hai?
Isme aage ka hissa ek doosre ke upar overlap hota hai aur side mein dori se bandhta hai, wrap jaisa.
Lambi anarkali lun ya ghutne tak?
Bade shaam ke function ke liye lambi, din ke function aur aaram ke liye ghutne tak.
Written by the House of Daisy studio · Ask us anything on WhatsApp (opens in a new tab)