An anarkali suit has a fitted bodice that flares into a long, skirt-like kurta, while a salwar kameez has a straight or gently shaped kameez worn over a gathered salwar. Both are suits, both come with a dupatta, and both can be simple or festive. At House of Daisy on Golf Course Road, Gurugram, we find the choice usually comes down to how you like an outfit to feel and the occasion you are dressing for.
How are they cut?
- Anarkali: the kurta is fitted to the bust and then opens into many panels, so it flares like a skirt. It is usually worn with a fitted churidar.
- Salwar kameez: the kameez falls straight or slightly A-line from the shoulders, with side slits. The salwar is loose at the top and gathered at the ankle.
So the anarkali puts its volume in the kurta, and the salwar kameez puts its volume in the trousers.
How does each one feel to wear?
A salwar kameez is relaxed. The straight kameez skims the body, the salwar gives your legs room, and it is easy to sit cross-legged, travel or work in. An anarkali feels more dressed. The fitted bodice holds you, the flare moves around your legs, and the churidar is snug. Many women keep salwar kameez for daily life and reach for an anarkali when the day turns festive.
Which is better for occasions?
An anarkali has more natural drama, so it moves easily into festive evenings, family functions and parties. A salwar kameez can be festive too, especially in silk or with a rich dupatta, but it reads quieter. For a puja, a gathering at home or an office celebration, a well-cut salwar kameez is often just right. For a sangeet or a festive night, most women lean towards the anarkali.
Who does each silhouette suit?
Both suit most women; it is about the details. A straight kameez with a modest slit gives a long, clean line. An anarkali that starts its flare just under the bust skims the tummy and hips. If you are petite, a slightly shorter anarkali or a straight kameez at knee length keeps proportions easy. Comfort comes first: you should be able to sit, eat and move without tugging at anything.
What do I wear underneath each?
Traditionally, a churidar under an anarkali and a salwar under a kameez. Today both rules are loose. Palazzos and straight pants work under either, and a sharara can sit under a shorter anarkali. The bottom you choose changes the mood more than you might think, so it is worth trying a couple.
Where can I find both?
See our anarkali collection and our ready-made suits. Our range is mostly festive and party suits, with some lighter everyday ones. On most ready-made suits, the neckline or sleeves can be changed, usually within about a week.
If you would like something made to order, the first design consultation is free, in the showroom or on a video call. 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. Colours come from our fabric shade cards, and many shades can be tried ready at the showroom.
Can I compare them on me?
Yes. 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. Walk-ins are welcome to see pieces. Read more about visiting House of Daisy.
Common questions
Is an anarkali a type of salwar kameez?
In a broad sense, yes: both are suits. The anarkali is the flared style, and the salwar kameez is the straight one.
Which is more comfortable for a long day?
Usually the salwar kameez, because the salwar is roomy and the kameez is loose. A light anarkali is comfortable too.
Can I wear a salwar under an anarkali?
You can, though the churidar is more usual because it keeps the line slim under the flare.
Can you stitch a suit from fabric I bring?
We stitch unstitched suits and dress material bought from House of Daisy only, not fabric brought from elsewhere.
Anarkali aur salwar suit mein kya fark hai?
Anarkali ka kurta neeche se ghera hota hai, jaise skirt. Salwar suit ka kameez seedha hota hai aur salwar dheeli hoti hai.
Teej ya puja par kaunsa pehnun?
Dono sundar lagte hain. Aaram chahiye to salwar suit, thoda festive look chahiye to anarkali.
Written by the House of Daisy studio · Ask us anything on WhatsApp (opens in a new tab)