From Casual to Royal: Styling a Shawl with a Simple Kurta

"Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak." 

And sometimes, all it takes is a shawl to establish your unique style..

Last winter, I attended a friend’s mehendi in Delhi. I had packed light—just a crisp white kurta pajama and a pair of mojris. 

But then, I saw everyone around me was dressed to impress. I looked... well, like I was ready to fetch chai for the baraat, not attend it.

Luckily, while packing, I had tossed in an old handwoven shawl my dad had given me. I flung it over my shoulder without a second thought. Soon after, I had someone ask me if I was part of the groom’s family. 

That’s the magic of styling a men kurta with shawl. It turns your simplest look into something that feels almost royal, without even trying too hard.

Why the Shawl Works So Well with a Kurta

We often think of the shawl as something our uncles or granddads wore while sipping chai in the verandah. 

But today, it’s so much more than just a winter essential. It’s a statement piece. A mood. A vibe.

Presently, pairing a men kurta shawl is more about blending comfort with culture. It adds texture, contrast, and a bit of drama to your outfit. 

Whether it’s a casual brunch or a wedding reception, the right shawl can elevate your men kurta pajama with shawl combo to designer-level sharpness.

But let’s get real—there’s a right way to do it.

The Casual Drape

Let’s start with the basics.

You’ve got a cotton or linen kurta. It’s breathable, relaxed, something you’d wear to a coffee catch-up or even a weekend family lunch.

Here’s what to do:

• Pick a lightweight shawl in a contrasting color (a muted mustard with navy, or charcoal grey over white).
  
  

• Drape it over one shoulder casually and let it hang free on the opposite side.
  
  

• Don’t overthink it. The idea is to look effortless.
  
  

I often throw on a jamdani shawl over a pastel kurta when heading out for errands. Suddenly, it doesn’t feel like errands anymore. It feels like I could bump into someone important and still feel put together.

The Royal Wrap 

Now let’s say you're heading to a wedding—or worse, you're in the groom squad.

Here’s how to own the room:

• Choose a heavier shawl—maybe in velvet, pashmina, or with intricate zari embroidery.
  
  

• Wear it over one shoulder and bring it back under the opposite arm, letting it hang in the front like a dupatta.
  
  

• Secure it with a brooch if you’re feeling bold. (Trust me, it works.)
  
  

This works especially well with solid or monochrome kurtas. I wore a deep green kurta with a gold-threaded shawl last December, and three girls asked if I was single. Coincidence? I don’t think so.

Playing with Prints and Textures

Don’t shy away from mixing things up. If your kurta is plain, go bold with the shawl—paisleys, block prints, woven motifs. If your kurta is already quite detailed, keep the shawl neutral and textured.

A few no-fail combos:

• Ivory kurta + maroon woolen shawl = timeless
  
  

• Black kurta + deep red or mustard kantha shawl = statement
  
  

• Indigo kurta + beige raw silk shawl = artsy elegance
  
  

When in doubt, take a mirror selfie. If it looks too “overdressed,” take the shawl off one shoulder and let it fall naturally.

The Modern Minimalist Look

Now, not all of us want to look like Mughal royalty at every event. For those who prefer clean lines and minimal fuss, the trick is in the fabric and fold.

• Go for a slim, hand-finished wool or cotton blend shawl.
  
  

• Fold it narrow and wear it like a scarf around the neck, with both ends falling symmetrically in front.
  
  

• Works beautifully with darker kurtas and sleek sandals or leather loafers.
  
  

This is my go-to look for winter office parties. Understated, sharp, and a little different from the usual blazer crowd.

Pairing Accessories 

Less is more! Accessories can make or break your men kurta with shawl look. I learned this the hard way when I overdid it with a chunky watch, loud cufflinks, and a pocket square. The shawl lost its charm! Here’s what works:

• Footwear: Mojaris or juttis in neutral tones (tan, black, or gold) pair beautifully. I scored a pair of embroidered juttis from Ajio for ₹1,500, and they’ve been my festive staple.

• Jewelry: Keep it minimal. A simple ring or a thin chain necklace adds sophistication. I wear a silver ring my brother gifted me—it’s subtle but personal.

• Watch: If you must, choose a sleek watch with a leather strap. My Fossil watch with a brown strap blends seamlessly with most kurtas.

Choosing the Right Shawl 

Not all shawls are created equal. Early on, I made the mistake of pairing a heavy woolen shawl with a lightweight kurta. It looked bulky, and I was sweating buckets at a winter wedding! 

Here’s what I’ve learned about picking the perfect shawl for a men kurta with shawl:

• Material Matters: For summer or indoor events, go for lightweight fabrics like silk, cotton, or linen. I love a silk shawl for evening events—it catches the light beautifully. For winter, a pashmina or fine wool shawl adds warmth without overpowering your kurta.

• Color Coordination: A safe bet is to pick a shawl that complements your kurta’s color. My go-to is a neutral kurta (white, beige, or navy) with a bold shawl (maroon, emerald, or mustard). For a subtle look, match the shawl’s undertones to your kurta’s embroidery.

• Length and Width: A shawl that’s too long can overwhelm a simple kurta. Aim for 2–2.5 meters in length and about 1 meter wide. I once tried a 3-meter shawl and ended up tripping over it—lesson learned!

If you’re new to shawls, start with a solid color or minimal embroidery. Taroob has a number of solid colored shawls under 5k. Get one for yourself, and I’m sure it will be your trusty sidekick for everything from brunches to receptions.

Final Thoughts

Look, you don’t need a whole new wardrobe to feel like a king. Just a thoughtfully chosen shawl, a well-fitted kurta, and the confidence to carry it.

The beauty of the men's kurta with shawl look is that it works across age groups, occasions, and even moods. 

One day you’re running errands. The next, you’re catching compliments at a destination wedding. All with the same base outfit—just styled differently.

So the next time you pull out that kurta pajama, don’t think of it as “just” traditional wear. Add a shawl. Change the drape. Experiment. Mix moods.

Because somewhere between casual and royal, you’ll find your style.