Eyeing The Anarkali Look For Diwali? Here Is How To Select Best Embroidery Styles

There's something magical about the swirl of an Anarkali. The moment the fabric flares, it feels like stepping straight into a Mughal miniature painting. Diwali, with its lights, laughter and a thousand reasons to dress up, is the perfect occasion to bring out this classic silhouette. But while the Anarkali is eternal, what keeps it fresh season after season is the embroidery. It has always been more than just embellishment; it tells stories of regions, histories, and communities. And in today's festive fashion scene, embroidery is what turns a simple Anarkali into an heirloom-worthy masterpiece.

This guide takes you through 10 embroidery styles that work wonders on Anarkalis, and how to pick the right one for your Diwali look.

Best Embroidery Styles for Anarkali Suits This Diwali: A Complete Guide; Photo Credit: Pexels

Top Embroidery Styles to Elevate Your Anarkali This Diwali

1. Zari Work – A Touch of Royal Gold

Zari embroidery is like the sparkle of diyas against the night sky, classic, warm, and impossible to miss. Gold or silver threads are woven into the fabric, often creating paisleys, floral vines, or geometric borders. Zari instantly elevates an Anarkali into something regal.

Imagine stepping into a Diwali party in a deep maroon Anarkali with broad zari borders. The threads catch the light, and suddenly, you're the centrepiece of the evening. Zari works particularly well in silk or velvet fabrics, where the shine doesn't look too brash.

When shopping, check the quality of the zari. Real metallic threads are heavy and last longer, while synthetic versions may fade or fray after a few wears. Balance is key, too much zari can make the outfit look weighed down. Instead, go for understated motifs on the yoke or cuffs if you prefer subtlety. Pair it with antique jewellery and you'll look like you've stepped out of history.

2. Thread Embroidery – The Everyday Elegance

Sometimes, all it takes is a simple thread to weave magic. Thread embroidery is light, versatile and comes in an array of colours. Unlike metallic work, it has a softness that makes the outfit suitable for both day and evening Diwali events.

Picture a pastel peach Anarkali with contrasting pink and green thread florals scattered across the flare. It's breezy, feminine and playful. Thread embroidery also offers the advantage of colour play, you can either match it with the outfit or choose contrasting tones for drama.

This style is ideal for cottons, georgettes and chiffons, which are comfortable fabrics for those long Diwali evenings filled with food, dancing, and running around lighting diyas. It's budget-friendly too, beautiful threadwork doesn't always burn a hole in the pocket, with prices starting at around ₹3,000 for simpler styles. A pair of jhumkas and embroidered juttis can complete the festive-ready look.

Also Read: How To Pick The Perfect Cotton Anarkali For Everyday Elegance And Effortless Style: 10 Tips

3. Resham Embroidery – Smooth and Silken

Resham embroidery has a sheen of its own, thanks to silk threads that glide across fabric like strokes of a paintbrush. It's delicate, lustrous, and has a richness that stands out without being loud.

A navy blue Anarkali with resham peacocks along the hem or neckline can look breathtaking. The shine is soft, unlike zari, but equally festive. Resham often works beautifully with motifs inspired by nature, birds, leaves, or swirling vines.

The best part is its versatility. It can cover the entire Anarkali for a heavily worked look, or simply grace the bodice for a more understated effect. It works particularly well for women who want festive elegance but prefer not to shimmer excessively. Resham embroidery in bright jewel tones over darker fabrics creates a festive palette that feels both traditional and contemporary. Add a potli bag with matching resham tassels and you're ready to turn heads.

4. Mirror Work – Sparkles of Celebration

Mirror work is practically made for Diwali. Tiny reflective pieces stitched into fabric catch the light of diyas, candles and fairy bulbs, creating a natural sparkle wherever you move. It's festive, vibrant, and never fails to bring out smiles.

Think of a mustard-yellow Anarkali dotted with mirrors on the yoke and sleeves. As you twirl, every mirror bounces back a flash of light, turning the outfit into a walking firecracker display.

Mirror embroidery often pairs well with bright colours, turquoise, pink, saffron, and even black. It's especially popular in lighter fabrics like cotton and chiffon, perfect for outdoor Diwali gatherings where comfort matters as much as style. Prices vary, but even budget-friendly designs can look festive.

Pair the look with chunky silver jewellery or colourful bangles. With mirror work, you don't need much else; the outfit itself becomes the sparkle in the celebration.

5. Sequin Work – For the Glamorous Glow

If the plan is to shine brighter than the brightest lantern, sequin embroidery is the way to go. Sequins have been around for centuries, but they still carry a contemporary glamour. On Anarkalis, they work best when sprinkled rather than layered too heavily.

Imagine a midnight-black Anarkali scattered with tiny golden sequins, like the night sky full of stars. It's dramatic, dreamy, and perfect for a Diwali night out. Sequins can highlight specific areas like the neckline or sleeves, or be spread across the flare for a shimmering effect.

To avoid looking over the top, choose matte or antique-finish sequins rather than shiny ones. Pair the outfit with sleek makeup and let the embroidery do the talking. Sequins also photograph beautifully, so expect compliments on social media when those Diwali pictures go up.

6. Gota Patti – The Festive Favourite

Gota Patti embroidery comes straight from the colourful traditions of Rajasthan. Strips of gold or silver ribbon are hand-stitched into fabric, forming motifs that look festive and luxurious.

Visualise a bottle-green Anarkali with gota borders along the flare and neckline. The metallic shine plays beautifully against solid colours and gives an instant festive makeover without too much fuss. Gota Patti is also surprisingly light, making it comfortable for long celebrations.

This embroidery works well for pre-Diwali pujas or card parties where you want something grand yet not overpowering. Pair it with a dupatta that has gota highlights and you've got a coordinated festive outfit. Prices start at around ₹5,000 for machine-done styles, but handcrafted versions can go higher. It's an investment worth making if you love festive clothing with a traditional edge.

Best Embroidery Styles for Anarkali Suits This Diwali: A Complete Guide; Photo Credit: Pexels

7. Chikankari – The Subtle Grace

For those who prefer grace over glitter, Chikankari is a beautiful choice. Originating centuries ago, this white thread embroidery on pastel fabrics brings out a refined elegance.

Picture a powder-blue Anarkali with delicate white chikankari motifs on the bodice and cuffs. It's soothing, gentle, and perfect for daytime Diwali pujas or brunches with family. Chikankari works best in georgette, chiffon or muslin, keeping the outfit airy and comfortable.

Though it's subtle, chikankari can be paired with sequins or pearls for a touch of glamour. The understated elegance makes it perfect for people who want festive wear they can also re-use for other occasions. A chikankari Anarkali with pearl jewellery feels almost poetic, a reminder that not all Diwali sparkle comes from lights and firecrackers.

8. Zardozi – A Royal Affair

If grandeur is the goal, zardozi embroidery is unbeatable. Heavy metallic threads, beads and pearls are embroidered into bold motifs, giving the Anarkali an imperial finish. It's the kind of work you'd see in museum textiles, still alive today in festive wear.

A deep wine-coloured velvet Anarkali with zardozi embroidery across the bodice and cuffs can look like a piece straight out of royal courts. It's luxurious, heavy, and often on the pricier side, starting around ₹12,000 and going upwards depending on craftsmanship.

Since zardozi is weighty, keep accessories minimal. A single statement ring or chandelier earrings are more than enough. This embroidery is perfect for the main Diwali night, when the vibe is opulent and celebratory. Every stitch carries centuries of artistry, making you feel as though you're wearing history itself.

9. Kantha Work – The Artistic Storytelling

Kantha embroidery carries storytelling in its stitches. Traditionally made with running stitches, it depicts motifs of daily life, animals, nature, or geometric designs. While it's usually associated with stoles and sarees, Kantha on Anarkalis looks refreshingly unique.

Imagine a bright red Anarkali with Kantha motifs of lotus flowers scattered across the yoke. It feels less like clothing and more like wearable art. Kantha is usually done in cotton or silk, and it's lightweight, making it perfect for casual Diwali gatherings.

Because of its minimal yet artistic approach, Kantha embroidery stands out when paired with earthy accessories, terracotta bangles, handcrafted earrings, or juttis. It's not just festive wear; it's a conversation starter. Someone is bound to ask, “Where did you get this from?”

10. Phulkari – The Bloom of Colours

Phulkari, which literally translates to “flower work,” is known for its bold, colourful thread embroidery. It's vibrant, cheerful and brings out the joy of festivals.

Visualise a fuchsia Anarkali bursting with multicoloured Phulkari embroidery across the dupatta. The bright threads glow against the fabric, instantly lifting the mood. It's a style that radiates happiness and suits the energy of Diwali perfectly.

Phulkari is often used on georgette or cotton-silk blends. Because it's so eye-catching, the rest of the outfit can remain simple. A plain Anarkali with a heavily embroidered Phulkari dupatta also works wonders. Prices vary from ₹4,000 upwards, depending on the detailing. Pair it with chunky bangles and a bindi for that complete festive vibe.

Products Related To This Article

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Diwali dressing is as much about personal expression as it is about tradition. The Anarkali kurti, with its timeless silhouette, offers the perfect canvas for embroidery to shine. From the regal sheen of zari and zardozi to the playful sparkle of mirror work or the quiet grace of chikankari, there's something for every personality.

The key lies in balance, choosing embroidery that complements your style rather than overwhelms it. After all, the best festive outfit is the one that lets you enjoy the celebrations without fuss. This Diwali, let your Anarkali tell a story, not just with its flair, but with every stitch of embroidery on it.

Disclaimer: The images used in this article are for illustration purpose only. They may not be an exact representation of the products, categories and brands listed in this article.