HAZARAPHULKARI
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How to Style a Phulkari Shawl

4 min read

Handmade Phulkari shawl draped to show a red lattice pattern with a teal embroidered panel

A Phulkari shawl carries a great deal of visual detail, so styling it is mostly a matter of restraint. The shawl becomes the focus and everything else supports it.

With Traditional Clothing

Worn over a plain kurta or a simple suit in a solid colour, the embroidery reads clearly. Drawing one shade from the shawl and echoing it in the outfit ties the look together without competing.

With Contemporary Clothing

Phulkari sits comfortably over neutral modern clothing. A shawl worn loosely over a plain coat, a simple dress or a monochrome outfit becomes the single decorative element.

Draping and Proportion

How you drape the shawl changes which part of the pattern is visible. Folding lengthwise emphasises the border, while wearing it open across the shoulders shows the full field of embroidery.

Let the shawl fall naturally rather than pinning it tightly; the fabric moves better when it is allowed to drape.

If you would like help choosing a shawl for a particular occasion, send us an enquiry.

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Full view of a densely embroidered Bagh Phulkari shawl with diagonal geometric motifs on a black ground fabric

The History of Phulkari

How an everyday domestic craft became one of South Asia's most recognisable embroidery traditions.