How to dress up this Diwali! 

By Ashima Sethi

1. Fusion Revolution

Let’s face it, this year intimate parties are taking centre-stage due to COVID-19, so the motto for this festive season is ‘less is more.’ Opt for mix-and-match pieces that you can wear multiple times in multiple ways, whether it’s a statement top that works with a skirt and jeans or a statement dupatta that can elevate a simple outfit.

A variation of this trend by Payal Singhal.

2. Free Flow

Who doesn’t love a good kaftan? They’re comfortable, flowy, and fit for all body types, and this year they’re actually making it onto the festive fashion scene thanks to celebrities like Kareena Kapoor who has fully embraced this item during the pandemic lockdown. One shoulder variations and kaftans in bright prints are perfect for celebratory occasions. Add an embroidered belt or some chunky jewellery to really boost your look.

Colourful kaftan by Masaba Gupta. 

3. Up Your Sleeve

This year has undeniably seen the rise of dramatic sleeves in both Indian attire and Western fashion. Instead of choosing something basic and acessorising the usual route, opt for a top with some drama! There’s plenty of choices, from butterfly and bell sleeves, to giant ruffles and padded shoulders.

Bipasha Basu wears an ensemble from Sanjukta Dutta’s Prayaash collection. 

4. Best in a Vest

A colourful, embroidered vest can go a long way in adding some flair to your sartorial selections. Whether short or long, a well-cut vest can jazz up simple anarkalis, kurtas, and even dresses, especially when colours are cleverly contrasted. But what’s best about a vest? You can even adapt them for a Western wardrobe to enhance a tee and jeans combo.

Bright, multi-coloured vest from Etsy.

5. Pretty in Palazzos

An ultra-flattering trend for all body types, the palazzo pant is one item that just doesn’t seem to go out of style. For a simple yet fun outfit for family dinners, choose bold trousers that you can pair with a simple top, belt, and funky accessories. For something more elegant in the case of a puja, pair your palazzos with an anarkali top or kurta.

Yellow printed palazzo trousers from House of Indya.