Redefining festive wear this Diwali

Diwali Special 2016

By Neehar Mishra

Photography: Courtesy Jyotee Khaitan

Read Time: 2 mins

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From asymmetrical skirts to stitched dhotis, fashion designer Jyotee Khaitan tells you all you need to know to stay trendy this festive season…

It’s that time of the year, when people come together to ring in festivities, decked up in all of their fineries, spirits soaring high. And while Diwali is closely associated with traditional festive wear, exposure to global trends has led to a fusion of the best of both worlds.

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With unimaginable varieties in embroideries and embellishments, cuts and silhouettes, colours and material, spoiling even the most discerning consumer for choice, it may seem daunting to narrow down on the perfect outfit. To make things easier, Kolkata-based fashion designer, Jyotee Khaitan has just the advice you need.

While sari, salwar kameez and lehenga choli lend themselves most favourably to any festive occasion, trendy modern variations of these quintessentially traditional garments - such as stitched saris, angled lehenga skirts and culottes paired with kurtas - not only look more stylish but are also easier to adorn.

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Capes and cropped blouses paired with lehenga skirts, a mishmash of sequins in the embroidery instead of the traditional gold one, layering of asymmetrical patterns, different styles of draping and combinations of print and embroidery, all make your traditional outfit more modern, chic and glamorous.

For men, nothing spells sophisticated and traditional better than a well-fitted bandhgala teamed with a flaired Patiala salwar or a stitched dhoti.

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If you’re looking for something more casual but no less classy, opt for a plush bandi jacket in colours like antique gold, rust, coral or indigo and pair it with your regular shirt-and-trousers combo.

Pair bright coloured trousers with a simple white linen shirt and a trendy jacket for a cooler, younger look, or go classic black with a kurta and churidar along with an elegant red-and-gold stole to keep things festive.

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Diwali is the perfect occasion to pull all stops and put your most fashionable foot forward. However, whether you opt for something outright traditional or are gravitating towards a smart-casual ensemble, make sure you steer clear of anything too elaborate or gaudy.