This Navratri, it’s time to let go of inhibitions and put a spin on your traditional outfits for a contemporary look. While customary chaniya-cholis are evergreen, incorporating certain western elements into you outfit can make you stand out, as you dance the night away.
Want to dress to impress but got no time to go festival shopping? Well, not to fear when we are here. We’ve created the perfect cheat-sheet to help you refashion your old clothes and play Dandiya in style this year.
Styling Tips for Garba Night
The Lehenga Twist
Own a fancy bridal lehenga that you just cannot find the occasion to wear again? Put it to use this Navratri season. We know what you’re thinking, how can I wear such a heavy lehenga to Garba night? Ditch your matching choli and pair your lehenga with a basic black tee to balance out the elements. Throw in some chunky oxidized jewelry into the mix and voila; your very own, one-in-a-million Garba outfit is ready.
Fun with Dhoti Pants
If you own a pair of dhoti pants that you cannot seem to get much use out of, now’s their time to shine. Swap your traditional ghagras for comfy dhoti pants that’ll allow you to dance all night, without the fear of tripping on your clothes. Pair it with a crop top and dupatta for an ethnic touch. Complete your look with shoulder dusters or a maang tikka and slip on a pair of your most comfortable juttis for a fun night out.
A Layered Story
Got a favorite Anarkali outfit that you’ve worn one too many times? Layer it with an embroidered Garba jacket featuring mirror-work, sequins, and conch shell embellishments and breathe new life into it. Alternately, you may layer a crisp shirt on top of your Anarkali and tie a knot to give it the illusion of a swirling skirt. Add finishing touches with traditional silver jewellery. Got time to spare? Get your old Anarkali repurposed into a quintessential chaniya choli for the perfect Navratri attire.
Fusion Flamboyance
Have any dresses in your wardrobe that you love? Style a maxi dress as an Anarkali, and a midi dress as a long Kurti. Pair your maxis with a chunky belt to cinch in the waist and add definition to your attire. Wear wide-leg pants or palazzos underneath the midi dress and layer it with an embellished jacket on top. Wrap a dupatta across the torso and tie it at the side for a traditional take on an otherwise contemporary outfit.
Armed with these tips, you can transform your grand, old Indian wedding dresses into designer outfits so good, they may even spark new trends this festive season!