What Shoes Should I Wear with a Kurti?

Have you ever stood in front of your mirror, kurti on, hair just right, and then paused—staring down at your shoes, wondering if they’re ruining the whole look? I’ve been there more times than I’d like to admit. In fact, my first kurti-and-jeans combo at university was paired with clunky trainers, and the result? Let’s just say my friends still bring it up during reunions. That moment taught me something important: when it comes to styling a kurti, shoes aren’t just an accessory—they can make or break the outfit.

In this article, we’ll explore what type of shoes you should wear with a kurti—whether you’re dressing for a casual day out, a professional event, or a festive occasion. I’ll be blending personal style trials, fashion expert insights, and timeless principles that go beyond short-lived trends. Let’s walk through it (pun intended).

Why Shoes Matter When Styling a Kurti

A kurti is one of the most versatile pieces in South Asian wardrobes. Depending on how you pair it, it can look ethnic, contemporary, casual, or formal. Shoes are a silent communicator—they say whether you’re keeping things traditional, experimenting with fusion wear, or leaning towards a Westernised edge.

Fashion stylist Ayesha Malik, who has styled celebrities for both casual and red-carpet events in Pakistan, once said in an interview: “Shoes are the foundation of any outfit. With a kurti, they decide whether you look effortlessly put together or as if you got ready in a rush.” This rings true, especially because the kurti itself is such a neutral canvas.

Everyday Wear: Comfortable Yet Stylish Options

1. Juttis – The Timeless Classic

If you want to keep things traditional, you can never go wrong with embroidered or plain juttis. They’re flat, comfortable, and come in countless designs. For casual cotton kurtis, I often pick a pastel-coloured jutti with minimal embroidery—it adds just enough character without overpowering the outfit.

Pro tip: A pair of neutral-toned leather juttis can go with almost any kurti, making them a staple in your wardrobe.

2. Kolhapuris – Effortlessly Ethnic

Kolhapuri chappals strike a balance between laid-back and stylish. I once wore tan Kolhapuris with a navy blue kurti and white trousers—the earthy tones instantly grounded the outfit and made it look cohesive.

According to The Economic Times style report (2024), Kolhapuris are experiencing a global revival, not only in South Asia but also in Indo-fusion fashion abroad. This makes them a future-proof investment.

3. Ballet Flats – Minimalist Fusion

For those who want comfort with a hint of modernity, ballet flats work wonders. They complement kurtis paired with jeans or cigarette trousers. I find them especially useful when travelling—they’re easy to slip on and match most semi-formal kurtis.

Professional & Office Looks

4. Block Heels – Adding Elegance Without Sacrificing Comfort

When attending meetings or professional gatherings, I prefer block heels with longer kurtis. They provide posture support and elongate your silhouette without the discomfort of stilettos. A nude or beige block heel can make even a simple cotton kurti look boardroom-ready.

Dr. Sarah Johnson, a podiatrist from the UK, explains in a study published by the British Medical Journal that block heels distribute body weight more evenly compared to pencil heels, reducing strain on your lower back and ankles. So, it’s not just a fashion choice but also a health-conscious one.

5. Loafers – Smart and Practical

For a chic, semi-corporate look, loafers are underrated heroes. Black or tan loafers look particularly sharp with straight-cut kurtis. I once paired metallic loafers with a plain grey kurti—and the compliments I received made me realise that footwear can be a conversation starter at work.

Festive & Special Occasions

6. Mojaris – Embellished Tradition

When you’re heading to a wedding or a festive dinner, mojaris are your best bet. Their ornate designs add a celebratory feel. Pair them with silk or georgette kurtis, and you’ll instantly look festive without trying too hard.

7. Kitten Heels – Subtle Glamour

For those who struggle with higher heels (like me, after an embarrassing trip at a cousin’s engagement), kitten heels are a saviour. They provide height, grace, and elegance while remaining wearable for long hours.

Fusion & Contemporary Styles

8. Sneakers – Bold Yet Comfortable

Yes, sneakers! The younger crowd, especially Gen Z, has embraced pairing white trainers with kurtis for a street-style edge. I tested this with a short kurti and skinny jeans, and the look was not only trendy but also perfect for long shopping days.

However, keep in mind that not every kurti style goes well with sneakers. They usually pair best with short or A-line kurtis.

9. Wedges – Comfort Meets Style

If you’re aiming for a fusion look but want more stability than heels, wedges are your friend. They’re ideal for outdoor events like garden parties where stilettos might sink into the grass.

Matching Shoes with Kurti Types

Straight-Cut Kurtis → Best with loafers, block heels, or juttis.
A-Line Kurtis → Go for wedges or Kolhapuris.
Anarkali Kurtis → Mojaris, kitten heels, or embellished sandals.
Kurti with Jeans → Sneakers or ballet flats.
Kurti with Palazzo Pants → Block heels or wedges to balance the wide bottom.

FAQs

1. Can I wear boots with a kurti?
Yes, ankle boots can look chic in winter with a long kurti and leggings. Avoid knee-high boots unless styled carefully, as they may overwhelm the outfit.

2. Do heels always make kurtis look better?
Not necessarily. While heels elongate your frame, flats like juttis or loafers can look equally stylish if styled thoughtfully.

3. Are sneakers acceptable for formal kurti looks?
No, sneakers are best reserved for casual or fusion outfits. For formal occasions, stick to mojaris, heels, or loafers.

4. Which shoe colour works universally with kurtis?
Neutral shades like beige, tan, or metallic gold are versatile. They complement most kurti colours without clashing.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right shoes for a kurti is less about strict rules and more about context—where you’re going, the fabric of your kurti, and the impression you want to leave. Personally, I keep three pairs handy: neutral juttis, nude block heels, and white sneakers. Between them, I can style almost any kurti in my wardrobe.

The next time you’re staring at your shoe rack in confusion, remember: your choice of footwear is not just about matching—it’s about expressing your personality. Whether you lean towards the comfort of Kolhapuris or the boldness of sneakers, let your shoes tell your story.

Your Turn: What’s your go-to shoe choice with a kurti? Have you experimented with something unusual—like boots or mules? Share your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear your style experiments!