Graceful Glam!
BY GRACE CLARKE
NAVRATRI is a major festival honouring the Hindu goddess Durga, celebrated with nine days of fasting and rituals. On the eighth day, young girls, seen as forms of the goddess, are invited into homes and served prashad. While customs may differ across India and the diaspora, the common thread is the effort to bring happiness, peace, and prosperity into the home.
This festive season is the perfect opportunity to elevate your wardrobe. Celebrate in style with ensembles that merge traditional elements with modern touches, capturing the essence of Navratri. In this style guide, we’ll explore wardrobe inspirations that blend classic motifs with contemporary silhouettes, ensuring your Navratri attire exudes festive charm and timeless elegance.
STYLE GUIDE
INDO-WESTERN TUNICS WITH TROUSERS
A printed tunic paired with tailored trousers can give a modern yet very demure vibe. Pick tunics with high collars or boat necks, and make sure they fall just below the knees. Trousers should be fitted, but not tight – think cigarette pants or for a playful option, bootcut trousers. We found the perfect olive green piece on Global Desi (www.globaldesi.in) with silver embellishments and a high mandarin collar. Paired with some statement earrings, this creates a timeless and staple silhouette which you can re-wear across multiple occasions.
MIDI DRESSES WITH TRADITIONAL PRINTS
A mid-length dress with traditional block prints or embroidery can be an ideal fusion piece for Navratri. Ensure the dress is stylish yet modest by selecting long sleeves and higher necklines. A favourite online shop of ours to sift through is Pernia’s Pop-Up Shop (www.perniaspopupshop.com), which offers a selection of midi dresses for the occasion. Accentuate the look with statement jewellery and a pair of bold shoes for a more elevated and refined appearance.
MAXI SKIRTS WITH HIGH-NECK BLOUSES
A classic ensemble you can always opt for is the timeless maxi skirt and high-neck blouse pairing that seamlessly marries modesty with timeless sophistication. To infuse that celebratory sparkle, choose sumptuous fabrics accented with subtle shimmer or adorned with intricate embroidery, or embrace the season with traditional prints. Elevate the look with a touch of sparkle by pairing it with dazzling jewellery and chic, strappy shoes. These finishing touches will add a glamorous edge and ensure you stand out with elegance and style. One retailer we’ve discovered that exudes sophistication is OGAAN (www.ogaan. com), showcasing a carefully-curated collection of Indian designers for any occasion. Their selection of maxi skirts is especially exquisite, featuring rich colours, intricate textures, and beautiful detailing.
COORDINATED SETS WITH TRADITIONAL PRINTS
For a standout yet effortless look this Navratri season, coordinated sets with traditional prints are your go-to option. These matching ensembles offer a perfect blend of style and ease, while the vibrant prints keep the festive spirit alive. The cohesive design adds instant polish, while rich colours and intricate motifs lend a touch of traditional charm. Browse through Azurina (www.azurina.in), a chic online boutique, for a selection of premier coord sets in different colour ways, styles, and silhouettes.
STYLING TIPS & TRICKS JEWELLERY
This Navratri, adorn yourself with your favourite statement pieces, like large earrings, bold bracelets, and chunky bangles. For a more understated look, embrace the ‘less is more’ ethos; a single piece of jewellery can make a big impact!
MAKE-UP
Channel your inner goddess with a soft, luminous glam look this Navratri. Start with a warm taupe in the crease and enhance your eyes with shimmering champagne and bronze on the lids for a radiant glow. Aim for a dewy, luminous base, complemented by a delicate pink blush. Add a touch of warmth with bronzer and light up your features with a subtle highlighter. For the lips, choose sandy nudes, warm terracottas, or, if you’re feeling daring, a deep burgundy.
