kurta

The kurta is a traditional tunic worn in the Indian subcontinent, traditionally by men but increasingly by women in contemporary fashion. It is typically knee-length or longer and has a straight or slightly flared silhouette. A mandarin or band collar is common, with a front placket that is often buttoned. Side slits, long or three-quarter sleeves, and lightweight fabrics such as cotton or linen are typical; heavier fabrics and embroidery appear for formal wear.

In daily wear, kurtas are paired with pajama or churidar bottoms; for women or casual outfits, they are worn with leggings, salwar, or jeans. Variants include shorter kurti-like silhouettes in women's fashion. Patterns range from solid colors to floral or geometric prints, and many kurtas feature embroidery, block printing, or chikankari work.

Regional styles include Lucknowi kurta with intricate chikankari, Punjabi kurtas with bold patterns, and Bengali versions with traditional motifs. The kurta also exists in ceremonial forms such as the kurta worn with a sherwani or as a fabric layer in wedding ensembles. The kurta has historical roots in the Mughal era and broader South Asian clothing traditions.

In modern fashion, kurtas have gained international popularity as versatile, culturally rooted garments that can be layered and adapted across styles and climates. The term kurta is widely used in South Asia and among the diaspora; a closely related female garment is the kurti, which is typically shorter. However, the terms overlap in everyday use.