Who, What, Wear?

Choose from pre-stitched saris, bias cut kurtas and brightly coloured kurta pyjama sets to make heads turn this Diwali

Shopping for Diwali is a ritual in itself that is more religiously observed by most of us than the traditional oil soak or bhai dooj. As amusing as it may seem even the most culture confused of NRIs and Gen X brats confess doing the rounds for an embellished silk lehnga or at least a cocktail sari to flaunt during the festival. With numerous silhouettes, cuts and fabrics to choose from it’s now that much more easier to invest in ethnic wear that’s both comfortable and chic. We have 5 top Indian designers, each known for their unique style sensibilities, telling you what works this year


Designer Kavitha Bhartia
Trademark style: Experimental and re inventive designs
“I think this year it’s all about having a little fun with the sari. Pre-stitched saris work great for this fun festival that is all about get-togethers, meeting people and parties. Embellishments are minimal allowing a lot of experimentation with mixing of different types of fabric. Accessorise the sari with metallic bags and embellished footwear.”

Designer Rina Dhaka
Trademark style: Bold and offbeat
“It’s the perfect time for well preserved hand me downs. Blacks, navys, bottle greens and midnight blues are the colours to look for. Choose a style that works for your body type. It’s very important to go Indian and western wear and fusion dressing is a complete no no.”


Designer Varun Bahl
Trademark style: mix of old world charm and contemporary chic
“It’s neither about bling nor minimalism. It’s all about individualism. Light ghagras or anarkalis work for women and men can abandon the usual white and black kurta pyjama sets for brightly coloured ones.”

Designer Sonam Dubal
Trademark style: fusion of eastern traditions with western aesthetics
“Opt for a causal meets formal look. Tunics with craft oriented intricate embellishments teamed with jeans and accessorized with a beautifully textured and printed scarf or stole works well for women. Men can opt for ikat or pin tuck kurtas.”

Designer Nikasha Tawadey
Trademark style: Bohemian chic
“Wear a nice bias cut kurta (anarkali if it works for your body type) paired with churidhar or salwar pants, depending on the wearer’s comfort, with a brocade waist coat and pretty kohlapuris or gold wedges. Accessorise with just one statement piece.”