Diwali, the festival of lights, is not only about celebrating traditions but also about dressing up for the occasion and showing off your style. Although traditional clothing is the focus, it never hurts to add a little modern flair to your elegance.
Designer duo Shantanu Mehra and Nikhil Mehra of luxury couture label Shantnu & Nikhil have made saree gowns and draped skirts with capes a go-to ensemble for women. “Geometric prints accentuated with intricate details are a key highlight of this season, adding depth and texture to festive looks,” says Mehra. Customization is also available for men. Designer Kunal Rawal of the menswear fashion label of the same name wears kurta shirts and short kurtas and pairs them with churidars.
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“Choose a contemporary style by pairing it with tonal chinos or clean-toned tonal denim. For footwear, opt for traditional Indo-Western styles or classic lace-ups in a neutral brown, always keeping a modern look. I have black shoes,” says Rawal, suggesting that fit and color are key, and choosing well-tailored clothing is essential. Designers as well as fashion retailers like H&M are presenting festive collections that capture the charm and festive spirit of the season. Eliana Masgaros, Concept Designer at H&M, said: “We have created something special for the holiday season, inspiring consumers with stylish, elevated and confident collections that are suitable for self-expression.” I wanted to,” he says. H&M’s womenswear features eye-catching silhouettes, including “goddess-like” dresses and skirts, sheer blouses and disco-inspired sequined ensembles. For men, classic sartorial cuts are available, with crisp button-down jackets and blazers paired with luxurious knitwear and pleated trousers.
In fact, multi-occasion wear is trending this season. For pre-Diwali festivities, opt for a traditional look that’s embellished from top to bottom, combining vibrant jewel colors like emerald, sapphire, and ruby with metallic accents. “Silhouettes are fluid yet structured. What’s different this time around is the emphasis on personal style. These versatile designs transition easily from day to night, so people is investing in statement pieces that blend luxury and sustainability,” says Avani Karan Chandan, co-founder of fashion brand The House, of Ara.
Party dressing is currently evolving, with an increased interest in dressing up in multi-functional and multi-style couture. Designer Anjul Bhandari says, “The blend of tradition and modernity includes the newly introduced Dagra jacket, the Nawab’s way of wearing a jacket, coordinating sets with a modern twist, and timeless formal wear. Including Sally. Indian and Western party wear has the essence of a coordinating set, a much-needed addition to your Diwali outfit, creating a breezy outfit for playing cards, hosting a party, and overall poise and dignity. , added Bhandari, who introduced the Chikankari coordinate. Metallic silver odes and gorgeous lehenga add luster to the outfit. “We also introduced shades of pink with gray beadwork and ivory flowers, blending a noble elegance that is graceful yet captivating. Preserving craftsmanship for posterity, intricate hand embroidery work The trend is to invest in sustainable pieces to create and transform them into treasured heirlooms,” she says.
Says the founder of eponymous designer label Lavanya Ahuja: “In contrast to the muted, pretty pastels of previous seasons, the shift from minimalist to dramatic is evident in bold details such as exaggerated ruffles, layered textures, and jewel-like embellishments using pearls. & crystal.”
Accessories that leave an impression
“This time it’s a kind of ‘ribbon love’, adding whimsical accents to bring coquettish charm to any dress code,” says Hair Drama, Disney India’s handcrafted hair accessories licensee brand. says Priyanka Sanghi, founder of the company. Emily and Barbie in Paris. This holiday season, accessories like bows, headbands, and statement bows take center stage, with versatile everyday clips essential to sprucing up your wardrobe.
“Deep greens, rich blues, and vibrant purples are seen in eye-catching and unique patterns, so dressing up with fun and creativity is key. Mix and match different textures, such as silky satins and sparkling sequins. It adds a cool twist to any outfit,” says Sanghi.
Festivals at this time of the year embrace a fusion of Indian and Western styles, with coordinating sets, traditional kurtas, and headpieces as popular must-haves. More and more labels are turning to fused or mixed metals for a contemporary feel and versatility. “An eye-catching design that can be carried effortlessly from celebrations to after-parties, the flowing shapes add a touch of elegance and movement, making it a piece that can be adapted to a variety of looks. Modern, eye-catching jewelry that can be worn to a variety of events. ,” says Sonali Lalvani, founder and CEO of accessories brand Toniq Retail Brands.
While she tends to redefine festive fashion with statement accessories, silhouettes and eye-catching details, Akanksha Arora, CEO of Tribe Amrapali, which manufactures handcrafted semi-precious metal jewellery, says Navratan Rani Haar We suggest pairing the necklace with peacock eye earrings. Shop the Navratna collection and wear it with silk sarees and lehengas for a traditional look. “If you want a contemporary style, opt for geometric patterned earrings and a delicate bracelet. This combination offers a modern, stylish aesthetic and is perfect for pairing with modern jumpsuits or fusion outfits.” she added. Meanwhile, sparkling accessories like potlis and clutches are making a strong comeback after years of minimalism. “Demand for these standout items is returning and we’re thrilled to see customers embracing glitz and glamor once again,” said Reno, a homegrown accessories brand targeting Gen Z customers. says Peros director Natasha Dua.
Italian luxury shoe and footwear brand Tod’s also announces a collaboration with Indian fashion designer Rahul Mishra to introduce the iconic Tod’s Gommino, Tod’s Di bag and a selection of Tod’s T Timeless accessories for men and women. I did.
Grooming essentials
It is most important to maintain a beautiful appearance by taking gentle care of your skin and makeup to avoid damaging your skin after the party season. “The biggest challenge is getting through the night without worrying about your makeup coming off, so keep your skin looking fresh with a water-based foundation for a bold look that’s resistant to dirt and sweat. Colored eyeliner is a big plus. It’s making a comeback. To create a festive vibe, think gemstone colors like emerald and sapphire,” says Ananya Kapoor, founder of Type Beauty.
Celebrity makeup artist Namrata Soni, founder of Simply Nam, says, “Use a metallic brown kajal as a blurred eyeshadow, pair it with a dark brown or black kajal on your waterline, and slather on mascara.” For a long day, use products that are smudge-resistant and sweat-resistant.A soft brown mocha blush shade that looks great on all Indian skin tones and gives a glossy look to the center of your lips. If you apply a balm with a certain amount, you will get a more plumping effect.
Brands like Marmelo Beauty offer lightweight, serum-based blushes that give you a natural look. According to makeup artist Samaira Sandhu, if you’re attending the grand Diwali festival in an elaborate outfit, donning mascara, a little concealer, tint, and stepping up your hair and makeup. Tahnee Nagar, creative director of Looks Salon at Select CityWalk, agrees. “Ponytails are making a bold comeback, but with a twist. The key is in the details. Think embellished accessories and soft waves for a festive feel.”
