From Reel to Real: Bollywood’s Most Memorable Kurta Moments and How to Recreate Them

Bollywood has long influenced fashion trends, turning everyday outfits into iconic style statements. The kurta, a staple in Indian fashion, has been reimagined by leading ladies on the silver screen, blending tradition with contemporary appeal. From playful Patialas to elegant Anarkalis, these timeless kurta styles have captured the essence of personality, mood, and cultural heritage.

Whether it’s the effortless charm of Deepika Padukone in Piku or the vibrant energy of Kareena Kapoor Khan in Jab We Met, Bollywood has showcased diverse kurta styles that remain popular today. Here’s a look at some of the most memorable kurta moments in Hindi cinema and how you can recreate them.

Iconic Kurta Looks from Bollywood

Rani Mukerji’s Vibrant Kurtas in Bunty Aur Babli

Rani Mukerji’s character in Bunty Aur Babli exuded confidence and quirkiness with her bold and colorful kurtas. Her wardrobe featured collared kurtas paired with heavily pleated Patiala salwars, juttis, and printed waistcoats, making for a lively and playful look.
How to Recreate: Opt for bright, printed kurtas with mirror work or traditional block prints. Pair them with Patiala salwars, a short jacket, and accessorize with chunky bangles and jhumkas for that Bollywood flair.

Kareena Kapoor Khan’s Iconic Kurtas in Jab We Met

Kareena Kapoor’s vibrant kurtas in Jab We Met became a fashion sensation, reflecting the spirited and carefree personality of her character, Geet. The combination of A-line kurtas with Patiala salwars and matching dupattas became an instant hit.
How to Recreate: Choose bright, colorful kurtas and pair them with Patiala salwars. Drape a matching dupatta casually and complete the look with minimal makeup, natural hair, and statement jhumkas.

Sara Ali Khan’s Ethereal Kurtas in Kedarnath

In Kedarnath, Sara Ali Khan embraced a serene, divine aesthetic with soft embroidery and flowing silhouettes, perfectly complementing the film’s setting.
How to Recreate: Opt for lightweight, embroidered kurtas in bright colors. Pair them with palazzos or churidars, and finish with kohl-rimmed eyes and open hair for a timeless, elegant look.

Sonam Kapoor’s Indie-Girl Kurtas in Raanjhanaa

Sonam Kapoor’s wardrobe in Raanjhanaa was a blend of tradition and grace, featuring pastel kurtas with delicate embroidery, often paired with palazzos or flared pants.
How to Recreate: Choose pastel Anarkali or A-line kurtas with embroidery or Banarasi prints. Pair with straight pants or flared palazzos, drape a soft dupatta, and accessorize with oxidized silver jewelry for a classic touch.

Kangana Ranaut’s Bold and Quirky Kurtas in Tanu Weds Manu

Kangana Ranaut’s character in Tanu Weds Manu brought an edgy and unconventional twist to the kurta, pairing it with dhoti pants, contrasting salwars, and oversized jhumkas.
How to Recreate: Experiment with short or mid-length floral kurtas, pairing them with dhoti pants or Patialas. Add a bindi, big jhumkas, and bangles to enhance the bold, quirky appeal.

Deepika Padukone’s Effortlessly Chic Kurtas in Piku

Deepika Padukone’s wardrobe in Piku was all about understated elegance, featuring muted tones and straight-cut cotton kurtas paired with palazzos.
How to Recreate: Choose earthy-toned, straight-cut kurtas with subtle embroidery or block prints. Pair with palazzos or churidars, keep accessories minimal, and complete the look with a soft bindi and loose waves.

Janhvi Kapoor’s Dreamy Kurtas in Dhadak

Janhvi Kapoor’s kurtas in Dhadak exuded romantic charm with pastel shades, flowy fabrics, and delicate embroidery.
How to Recreate: Opt for pastel-hued kurtas with light embroidery, pair them with palazzos, and add a sheer dupatta. Keep makeup minimal, focusing on a natural glow, and style your hair in soft waves.

Anushka Sharma’s Poetic Kurtas in Ae Dil Hai Mushkil

Anushka Sharma’s deep-hued, flowy kurtas in Ae Dil Hai Mushkil added a moody, poetic touch to traditional wear, perfect for winter evenings.
How to Recreate: Choose flowy, dark-colored kurtas and pair them with leggings or ankle-length palazzos. Swap a dupatta for a woolen shawl, accessorize with statement silver jewelry, and keep makeup and hair minimal for a refined look.

Bollywood continues to redefine kurta fashion, making it a versatile and timeless wardrobe essential. Whether you prefer the effortless sophistication of Piku or the vibrant energy of Jab We Met, there’s a Bollywood-inspired kurta look for every personality. Take inspiration from these iconic styles, experiment with different combinations, and make the kurta your own.