Table of Contents

  1. 1. What colour combinations look best while pairing a shawl with a kurta?

  2. 2. Is it okay if I tie a scarf around the waist of my kurta?

  3. 3. Can you wear a pashmina as a shawl?

  4. 4. How to pair a shawl with a kurti?

How to Wear Shawl with Kurta: 5 Easy Ways

Article published at: Nov 21, 2025
How to wear a shawl with kurta, by Kosala
All Kosala Diaries

Table of Contents

To be honest, when it comes to Indian ethnic wear, nothing is more charming than a simple kurta with a shawl. It is graceful, comfortable, and has a touch of elegance that is hard to beat. 

But, truly, the question is how to wear it without looking like something was just thrown on when one does not put an effort to achieve that 'effortless look'?

Whether it is a wedding, a celebration, or having a festive dinner, when one just wants to elevate an everyday look, this is the guide to ‘how to wear a shawl with a kurta’ so that overthinking is not a part of the process.

Natural Kosa and Mulberry Shawl, from Kosala

1. How Do You Drape It 'The Classic' Way?

The simplest, timeless, and shawl-related to the kurta 'one-side' drape technique is the most classic approach. Just take one end of the shawl, throw it over your left shoulder, and then let the other end fall naturally.

Not only does this technique add a sense of royalty, but it works beautifully on both genders. If it is a silk short kurta, the festive look comes with a light embroidered shawl is perfect, and its bulky feeling is to be avoided.

It is the absence of effort that makes the look perfect.

2. How To Layer It for That Elegant Touch

If you enjoy layering, you should try the front drape style. All you have to do is spread the shawl evenly around your shoulders, letting both ends fall to the front. This drape creates a sense of balance while providing a bit of structure to your outfit.

The design is also practical for those pleasant cool evenings when you need a bit of warmth. Pair this look with minimalistic jewelry and clean hair, and you will radiate confidence. This is the kind of understated luxury we often associate with designer kurta set for wedding.

So the next time you go out, skip the jacket. The shawl will do the job better!

3. How To Make It Look Modern Yet Effortless

The diagonal drape is for those who want to add drama while still remaining classy. To do this, take one end of the shawl and throw it over the opposite shoulder, letting it fall diagonally across the body.

This design is asymmetrical and will create movement and give your outfit a defined look. It will also give your outfit a more trendy look, especially if you are wearing pastels or a patterned stole.

This design is also a great answer to the question of how to wear a shawl with a kurta when you want a more contemporary touch while still keeping a traditional style.

4. How Do You Style It for Weddings or Special Occasions?

Go for the double shoulder drape for bigger events. Both ends of the shawl rest evenly over each shoulder to provide balance, framing the outfit perfectly.

For a more polished finish, you can lightly pin it at the side, which works best with more elaborate or embroidered shawls. This instantly enriches the outfit.

It’s also perfect for photos - the drape skillfully frames the kurta and adds a regal touch without being over the top. If you want to balance the outfit, though, a stole for woman in lighter shades works beautifully in place of heavy shawls.

5. How to Wear It for a Casual, Yet Polished Look?

Not every day requires a grand outfit. You simply need that soft, cozy, and comfortable elegance to get you through the day. Try the half-wrap style. Place the shawl over your shoulders and wrap one end loosely around the neck.

It feels utterly natural, almost like styling a scarf, but the look is way more polished at the end. For an everyday casual look, you can use lighter fabrics like silk or cotton blends.

This way of draping the shawl over the kurta is ideal for winter evenings, casual brunches, and festive get-togethers. It is chic and comfortable, and has an effortless appeal.

So, What’s the Best Way to Wear a Shawl with a Kurta?

It varies. It will depend on your mood, the event, and the outfit. Some days call for the majestic one-shoulder drape, and there are days that call for the relaxed half wrap.

Personalization is important. Play with different textures, shades, and drape styles.

Indian attire is about self-expression rather than strict guidelines. The moment you find the perfect style for your shawl and kurta, you will never think of your shawl as "just an accessory."

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What colour combinations look best while pairing a shawl with a kurta?

Neutral kurtas pair beautifully with vibrant or embroidered shawls, think ivory with maroon, beige with emerald, or mustard with navy. For printed kurtas, choose solid shawls to balance the look. The idea is contrast without clash.

2. Is it okay if I tie a scarf around the waist of my kurta?

Yes, absolutely. Tying a scarf or slim stole around the waist can define your silhouette and add a contemporary touch. Just make sure the fabric isn’t too bulky, and choose softer textures that drape well.

3. Can you wear a pashmina as a shawl?

Definitely. Pashmina makes for a luxurious shawl choice; it’s soft, warm, and timeless. Drape it loosely over your shoulders for an elegant daytime look or style it formally for festive evenings.

4. How to pair a shawl with a kurti?

Go for lighter shawls with everyday kurtis, cotton, linen, or light silk work best. Try contrasting colours or subtle embroidery to lift the outfit, and let the shawl flow naturally instead of wrapping it too tightly.

Share: