In modern usage, a short kurta is referred to as the kurti, which is usually is the attire of females. However, traditionally, the term kurti refers to waist coats, jackets and blouses which sit above the waist without side slits, and are believed to have descended from the tunic of the Shunga period (2nd century BC). The kurti is distinguished from the choli by the latter leaving the midriff exposed.

The Kurti can be a unisex garment, in the same way the Kurta can be a unisex garment. The main difference generally is that the Kurti Top is much longer, whereas the Kurta is a bit shorter.