Footwear Styles That Make Your Kurta Look Amazing: A Style Guide

Ah, the mighty kurta! That versatile piece of clothing that carries us from casual coffee outings to grand wedding functions with just a few styling tweaks. But here's the thing – even the most stunning kurta can fall flat with the wrong pair of shoes.



What shoes to wear with a kurta can make or break your entire look. The footwear you choose doesn't just complete your outfit – it announces your style, comfort preferences, and even which part of the celebration you're heading to.



This guide breaks down everything you need to know about what shoes to wear with a men's kurta for every possible occasion – from formal family functions to casual Holi gatherings.

Understanding the Kurta: A Cultural Overview

The kurta has journeyed from being purely ceremonial attire to becoming a fashion staple in every Indian man's wardrobe. This versatile garment traces its roots back centuries, evolving from royal courts to modern wardrobes while maintaining its distinctive appeal.

Originally worn as daily wear across various regions of India, the kurta's design varies significantly – from the short Punjab-style kurtas to longer versions from Lucknow. These regional variations influence not just the kurta's cut and embellishments but also the footwear traditionally paired with them.

Today's kurta has adapted to contemporary fashion while respecting its cultural significance. The modern man pairs his kurta with everything from denims to formal pajamas, making what shoes to wear with a kurta an increasingly important styling question.

Why the Right Shoes Matter

Imagine showing up to a wedding baraat in a magnificently embroidered kurta, paired with... running shoes! The disconnect would be jarring! This is precisely why knowing what shoes to wear with a men's kurta is so important.

Your footwear creates the foundation of your outfit – both literally and stylistically. The right shoes:

• Balance your overall silhouette
• Communicate the formality level of your outfit
• Reflect your attention to cultural details
• Ensure comfort through long celebration hours
• Complete the story your outfit is telling

When you're spending good money on a quality kurta from Manyavar's kurta pajama collection, it makes sense to complement it with equally thoughtful footwear choices.

What Shoes to Wear with Kurta: A Comprehensive Guide

When figuring out what shoes to wear with a kurta, consider these factors:

Traditional Shoes to Pair with Kurta

• Juttis/Mojaris: These embroidered, pointed-toe shoes represent the quintessential footwear for kurtas. Available in countless designs – from minimally decorated to heavily embellished with zari, sequins, and beadwork – juttis add a royal touch to your look. They work beautifully for weddings, religious ceremonies, and formal family gatherings.
• Styling Tip: Match your jutti colour to either your kurta or its embroidery for a coordinated appearance.
• Kolhapuri Chappals: Originating from Maharashtra, these handcrafted leather sandals feature a distinctive T-strap design. Their sturdy construction and timeless appeal make them perfect for semi-formal occasions, especially during warmer months.
• Styling Tip: Dark brown Kolhapuris complement almost any kurta colour, making them a versatile investment.
• Nagra: These flat, round-toed shoes offer comfort with cultural authenticity. Their simple design makes them suitable for casual to semi-formal settings.
• Styling Tip: They are perfect for longer events where comfort is a priority and work well with both cotton and silk kurtas.

Modern Shoes to Pair with Kurta

• Loafers: Sleek, slip-on shoes that blend comfort with contemporary elegance, loafers are the perfect choice for Indo-Western and modern Indian wear. Crafted in leather, suede, or velvet, they come in versatile styles ranging from plain to subtly detailed with tassels, buckles, or embroidery.
• Styling Tip: Choose neutral or dark-toned loafers to complement bold outfits, or opt for textured and embroidered versions to add depth to simpler ensembles.
• Oxfords/Brogues: For formal events where you want to make a strong impression, classic lace-up leather shoes elevate your kurta ensemble.
• Styling Tip: They're particularly effective with longer kurtas and structured cuts.
• Sneakers: Yes, sneakers! Clean white sneakers paired with a kurta and sleek straight pants create the perfect casual-cool vibe for college functions and casual get-togethers.
• Styling Tip: Keep your sneakers pristine – dirty or worn-out athletic shoes will downgrade your entire look.

What Shoes to Wear with Kurta Pajama for Different Occasions

The beauty of the kurta pajama lies in its adaptability across various settings. Let's explore what shoes to wear with a kurta pajama for different types of occasions.

Casual Occasions

• Kolhapuri Sandals: These offer breathability and comfort for day events while maintaining cultural authenticity.
• Styling Tip: Pair a light cotton kurta with classic brown Kolhapuris for an effortless summer look.
• Occasion Match: Family lunches, casual Diwali gatherings, and daytime festivities
• Casual Loafers: Canvas or casual leather loafers create a laid-back yet put-together appearance for what shoes to wear with a kurta in everyday settings.
• Styling Tip: Navy blue loafers create an interesting contrast with lighter kurta shades like grey or pale yellow.
• Clean Sneakers: For the ultimate contemporary casual vibe, pristine white sneakers with a short kurta create a head-turning look.
• Styling Tip: Keep your kurta length above the knee and opt for fitted pajamas or jeans to balance the modern footwear.

Formal Occasions

• Embellished Mojaris: Intricately decorated mojaris signal the formality of the event and complement the craftsmanship of a dressy kurta.
• Styling Tip: For weddings, consider mojaris with goldwork that echoes any zari or gota details in your kurta.
• Formal Juttis: Velvet or silk juttis with detailed embroidery or stonework perfectly answer the question of what shoes to wear with a men's kurta for high-profile events.
• Styling Tip: Match your jutti colour to a secondary colour in your kurta's embroidery for subtle coordination.
• Polished Leather Shoes: Well-maintained formal leather shoes in classic shapes create a sophisticated fusion look for business-formal settings.
• Styling Tip: Ensure your leather shoes are impeccably polished and match any leather accessories you're wearing.

Festive Occasions

• Colourful Juttis: Bright, festive-coloured juttis add a playful touch to your kurta ensemble during joyous celebrations.
• Styling Tip: During Holi, protect your favourite juttis with a quick spray of fabric protector before heading out.
• Wedding-Specific Options: As a groom or wedding guest, your footwear should be both celebration-appropriate and comfortable for long hours.
• Styling Tip: Line your festive juttis with soft fabric inserts for added comfort during extended wedding functions.

Style Tips When Choosing Shoes for Your Kurta

• Match formality levels: Heavily embroidered kurtas call for equally refined footwear
• Consider the season: Closed juttis for winter, open sandals for summer
• Account for comfort: Wedding functions can last hours; prioritise wearability
• Maintain proportions: Sleeker shoes balance fuller pajamas; chunkier footwear works with narrower silhouettes
• Remember regional appropriateness: Different styles have cultural significance

Stepping Out in Style: The Perfect Finish to Your Kurta Look

Finding the perfect answer to what shoes to wear with a kurta is about balancing tradition with personal style. The right footwear doesn't just complete your look—it transforms it, elevating a simple kurta into a thoughtfully curated ensemble.



For your next celebration, explore Manyavar for a curated collection of footwear designed to create harmonious, head-to-toe looks that elevate contemporary style sensibilities.



Aap Kab Ban Rahe Hai Manyavar!