Wedding season is probably the best excuse to refresh your ethnic wardrobe. Between engagement parties, mehendi ceremonies and wedding receptions, you need outfits that not only look festive but are also comfortable enough to wear for hours. As someone who likes clothes that I can wear in different ways, I am always on the lookout for kurta sets that strike the right balance between beauty and practicality.
Recently, I got a chance to wear two kurta sets from Etasha by Asha Jain, a homegrown label that also recently opened its new flagship store in Kala Ghoda, Mumbai. I wore one for a close friend’s engagement and the other for a wedding ceremony. Even though both are from the same label, they couldn’t be more different. One leaned towards contemporaneity with metallic textures and sleek silhouettes, while the other embraced classic embroideries and timeless charm.
After wearing both to long gatherings, lots of photos, and lots of dancing, here is my honest review.
Black Tissue Crepe Textured Metallic Kurta Set
price: ₹29600
This was the dress I chose for my friend’s engagement, and it immediately felt like something different from the usual celebratory attire. Instead of relying on heavy embroidery or embellishments, the kurta stands out due to its metallic textured tissue crepe fabric. It catches the light beautifully without looking overly flashy, making it ideal for evening events.
What I liked most was the silhouette. The crepe fabric drapes exceptionally well, creating a flattering fit that envelops the body rather than clinging to it. It has a beautiful fall which makes the entire outfit look expensive and effortless. The subtle shine running through the fabric gives it a polished finish, so you don’t need excessive jewelery to dress it up for the occasion.
I also appreciated how well the black trousers matched the kurta. Instead of competing with the textured fabric, they balanced the dress and kept the overall look sleek. Together, they created a silhouette that felt equal parts contemporary and traditional, a combination I always look for in festive wear.
That said, there was one detail that could definitely be improved.
Shoulder tie-up strings have heavy beaded tassels, which look beautiful but become a bit impractical when wearing a dress. Due to the weight of the beads, the shoulder straps kept loosening throughout the evening, and I found myself retying them several times. It wasn’t enough to ruin the costume, but it’s something I would prefer to be more protected about, especially during an event where you’re constantly moving around, greeting people, or dancing.
Even with that small flaw, this was easily one of my favorite festival outfits I’ve worn recently. It feels fashion-forward without losing its ethnic appeal and photographs beautifully in evening light.
Rating: 4.5/5
Best for: Engagements, cocktail ceremonies, music nights and intimate receptions.
Hand embroidered white aari colored silk kurta
price: ₹27000
For another wedding ceremony, I wanted something softer and more traditional, and this white embroidered kurta set seemed the perfect choice.
Unlike the black dress, this one relies on delicate details rather than dramatic textures. The embroidery around the yoke immediately catches your attention, a combination of soft pink and golden thread work that looks elegant without being overbearing. It is crafted in the best possible way and gives a beautiful, handmade look to the kurta.
The overall aesthetic is classic and timeless. If you’re someone who prefers subtle festive attire rather than heavily embellished outfits, this set is an easy recommendation. It has that effortless elegance that is perfect for day functions, pujas or family gatherings where you want to look without looking over dressed up.
My favorite element of this set was the red dupatta. Unlike the white kurta, it creates a beautiful contrast and instantly elevates the entire ensemble. Without it, the look would have been quite subdued, but the vibrant dupatta adds the right amount of color and festive energy.
However, the fit is slightly different from the black kurta.
This silhouette is a little loose, which some people may actually like as it feels comfortable and breathable. Personally, I would prefer a slightly more tailored fit around the waist for a more defined silhouette, but it will never look over-sized or unflattering. Instead, it gave the dress a casual, easy-to-wear feel that works well for spending the entire day attending wedding festivities.
Comfort-wise, I really had no complaints. I never felt restricted while sitting, walking around or spending hours at the venue, and that’s something I value just as much as good design.
Rating: 4.6/5
Best for: Wedding ceremonies, festive lunches, family gatherings and traditional celebrations.
What I enjoyed most about both of these outfits is that they cater to completely different moods.
Black Tissue Crepe Metallic Kurta Set This is for those days when you want your ethnic attire to look modern, sleek and fashion-forward. It has a contemporary edge that is different from traditional festive wear, and apart from the slightly impractical shoulder tie-up, it is beautifully designed.
White Embroidered Yoke Kurta SetOn the other hand, it’s perfect for anyone who appreciates restrained elegance. It is so comfortable, timeless and versatile that it can be worn on multiple occasions by simply changing its accessories.
If I had to choose one I would probably choose this one black metallic kurta set Purely because it feels unique and different from anything else I already have in my wardrobe. But if you’re looking for an outfit that will keep you going year after year, this white embroidered set equally deserves a place in your festive collection.
Sometimes the best festive attire isn’t about choosing between modern and traditional; It’s about having space for both. These two Etasha kurta sets from Asha Jain prove exactly that.
More Kurta Sets for Events and Festivals:
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