10 Everyday Ethnic Wear Essentials Every Indian Woman Needs in 2025 (That You Can Totally Wear to a Festival Too!)
Okay, let’s spill some tea.
Ethnic wear isn’t just for Diwali or wedding season. Nope. In 2025, it’s our everyday love language—whether we’re running to the office, grabbing chai with the squad, or crashing a cousin’s sangeet last minute.
If you’ve ever stood in front of your wardrobe thinking, “I want to look cute, but not like I tried too hard,” this list is for you.
Let’s talk about 10 ethnic essentials every Indian girl needs right now—the kind that works for a Monday and a Mehendi.
1. A No-Nonsense Cotton Kurta Set
Let’s start with the OG.
If you don’t have at least one soft, breathable cotton kurta set in your closet… girl, fix that. Right now.
Why you need it:
Looks polished.
Feels like pajamas.
Works for office, errands, dates, brunch—you name it.
Bonus: Add a pretty dupatta + silver jhumkas = Insta-worthy in 2 minutes flat.
Shop a vibe: [Insert link to your best cotton set on Myriwayat]
2. A Dupatta That’s a Whole Mood
If you're someone who repeats outfits (no shame, we all do), a statement dupatta will save your life.
Throw it over a plain kurta and suddenly—bam—you look like a queen.
Pro tip:
Try phulkari when you're feeling bold, organza when you're feeling soft, and banarasi when you want to turn heads.
Play it your way: Wrap it like a scarf or wear it cape-style. Experiment!
3. The Wide-Leg Palazzo Pants
They flow. They flatter. They feel like freedom.
Palazzos are the underrated MVP of ethnic fashion.
Pair them with kurtas, short tops, long shirts—or heck, even a crop tee on lazy days.
2025 hack: Printed palazzos with a plain top = effortless glam.
4. The “Looks-Festive-But-Feels-Chill” Kurta
You know the one. That kurta you wear on a casual Wednesday but could also wear to a Diwali dinner if needed.
Look for:
Gota work
Subtle mirror detailing
Light foil prints
It’s like having a party outfit… disguised as dailywear. Genius.
5. A Co-Ord Set That Makes You Feel Put Together
You know those days when you’re too lazy to match stuff?
Co-ord sets are the cheat code.
Throw it on, step out, and pretend you definitely had time to plan your outfit.
Bonus points: Wear with juttis or sneakers depending on your vibe. Add big hoops for drama.
6. A Plain Anarkali That Feels Fancy Without Trying
Let me say it louder for the girls in the back:
A solid-colored Anarkali dress is a wardrobe staple.
It’s comfy, flowy, and a total showstopper when styled right.
Pro tip: Add a belt at the waist and wear it with Kolhapuris. Instant desi princess.
7. One Killer Embroidered Blouse (Trust Me)
Even if you rarely wear sarees, own one really, really good blouse.
Why? Because you can pair it with:
•A skirt
•Jeans
•A lehenga
•Even trousers if you're feeling edgy
It’s that one piece you’ll wear more times than you think. Especially during wedding szn.
8. A Twirl-Worthy Skirt
If you don’t twirl when you wear it… is it even an ethnic skirt?
Get yourself one bright, flowy number that brings joy the minute you wear it.
Festive shortcut: Pair with a plain tee + oxidized jewelry. Boom. Done.
9. A Versatile Top & Dupatta Set
This is for my mix-n-match girls.
You know the power of a cute ethnic top that works with jeans, palazzos, or skirts. Add a matching dupatta, and you’ve got a look.
Styling ideas:
•Ethnic top + ripped jeans + heels
•Full set with palazzos for a chilled-out family dinner
10. That One Saree You’ll Pass Down Someday
Sarees are forever. But in 2025, they’re also fun.
Try a soft cotton, breezy georgette, or even a pre-draped one if you're not into pleating drama.
Wear it your way: With a belt, boots, or even a shirt. It’s your canvas, babe.
Real Talk: You Don’t Need a Wedding to Wear Ethnic.
You just need a mood.
And maybe a good mirror.
Every piece on this list can go from grocery runs to Ganesha visarjan with just a little styling magic.
Want to Build Your Ethnic Starter Pack?
We’ve got you covered at Myriwayat.com—because dressing desi should feel easy, effortless, and a little extra (when you want it to be).
Now Your Turn:
Which ethnic essential do you live in?
Do you have a dupatta that doubles as a comfort blanket? A skirt that never lets you down?
Tell us in the comments. We’re building a community of stylish, sari-loving, palazzo-rocking women—and we want to hear your stories.
