Diwali outfit prep means chaos, and let's be real, none of us feels like repeating the last Diwali's fits, do we? It's the one time in the year we get to refresh our ethnic wardrobe with traditional pieces that are evergreen, easy to pull off, and NOT a lehenga. Sure, lehengas are great but can be quite uncomfortable to wear, difficult to store, and can't be repeated soon (because where would you wear a lehenga again except at weddings). So, here I am, sharing my not-so-traditional ethnic wear wishlist with all of those who are going through a wardrobe upgradation phase (like me) and are looking for light, youthful, and somewhat minimalistic outfit ideas for Diwali that can be worn throughout the year for different occasions and won't end up being dumped in the corner of our closet. Read on!
10 Diwali Outfit Ideas For When You Want To Dress Simple Yet Ethnic Chic
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Ethnic Dress
₹5199
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For whoever thought ethnic dressing is boring, wait till you check out this red dress by Abhishti. The dress features a crisp collar and contrasting piping that adds extra oomph to the plain red. We love how the Benarasi-bordered cape mellows down the risqué factor of the side slit in the dress and also gives a handloom touch to the contemporary outfit, making it perfect for a not-so-traditional outing during the Diwali days.
Draped Skirt
₹15000
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Paulmi and Harsh are known for their vibrant prints and beautiful drapes. With celebrities like Alia Bhatt rocking their stunning outfits, this is one fashion label worth spending the buck on. Here we have their draped skirt and one-shoulder top set in their nature-inspired naksha print with the addition of a square sequinned belt to accentuate the waist. This one's a great pick for fashionistas looking for a breezy outfit for the countless Diwali dinner nights.
Anarkali
₹11995
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If you are like me and despise wearing embroidery-clad ethnic clothes that start feeling heavy (and at times itchy) the moment you get them on, but still want to sport the typical traditional look then anarkalis are just the thing for you! They are breezy, comfortable (and don't cling to the body) and look absolutely ethereal if styled correctly. This printed red anarkali from Basanti Kapde aur Koffee (brownie points for the cutesy name) looks like something Sonam Kapoor would wear. Can't stop planning an imaginary Diwali event in my mind to flaunt this!
Palazzo Set
₹12500
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Traditional-looking bottoms that look fashionable and are also extremely comfortable? Sign me up! The moment I spotted this palazzo set, I know I had to make space in my shopping cart right away! This crepe co-ord with motifs printed on shaded hues adds a certain character to the otherwise somber blue tone. The attention to detail whether it is the coined border on the wrap top or the tasseled-ties are impeccable and the craftsmanship speaks for itself and also the price.
Pre-draped Saree
₹17433
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There's nothing in this world that can beat the charm of a saree. However, if you can't do seven yards of draping tucked around your waist, a pre-draped skirt saree is just the thing for you! Not only does it save the time consumed by draping, but is also very feasible to carry and is exactly what you need to dance the night away at the Diwali parties. I have my heart on this floral rouge reddish-pink and beige saree with a sultry bralette blouse. Also, the pearl detailing on the blouse and the pallu add to the playful vibes of the saree. The price is a little crazy so I would suggest getting your hands on it during a sale.
Gharara Set
₹15800
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Ghararas are a great addition to your Diwali wardrobe as they are not only easy to pull off but also look extremely stylish. I found this beautiful gharara set from the Hidden Gems section on the Nykaa Fashion website, always a great place to start looking for a show-stopping outfit such as this one from Baise Gaba. I absolutely love the pleated top with the tie-up neck that gives the outfit a youthful contemporary touch in contrast to the traditional gharara. Baise Gaba is known for their luxe clothing and thus is a little heavily priced, skip this one if you are not a fan of investing in quirky prints.
Kurta Set
₹4499
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There's nothing that can beat the comfort and looks of a crisp kurta teamed with a pair of well-fitted trousers. This one from trueBrowns is giving quiet luxury with the opulent blue colour and sleek V-neck. The puff sleeves along with gathers at the neck make for the perfect minimalistic details that don't overpower the simplicity of the look. Dress this up with a pair of chandbalis or jhumkas for your Dhanteras puja.
Saree
₹3999
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Every single detail about this saree screams drama in a Bollywood movie star kind of way. You can never go wrong with black, especially if it's sheer because it adds sophistication to the look. This is for the divas who like going all out for their Diwali celebrations and wanna dress the part. Would suggest going the old-world charm route for the styling and doing your hair up in a bun while keeping the accessories very minimal.
Fusion Set
₹5199
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While I am not a big fan of wearing a plain shirt with embroidered trousers/skirts, I know many people enjoy the contemporary-meets-traditional aesthetic and so, here's my take on the same. These Abhishti separates include a wrap shirt situation along with a pair of zari-embroidered trousers. Also, it's black so I might even give it a shot and wear it (because you can never go wrong with black).
Kaftan
₹20000
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Saved the best for the last. For easy dressers like me who enjoy wearing free-flowing silhouettes that don't cling to the body but still look fab, a kaftan's your best friend! This one from Gulabo, Abu Jani & Sandeep Khosla's prét label has been sitting in my wishlist since long and I feel now's the perfect time to splurge a little on this statement piece. This eclectic print kaftan is the perfect pick for the Diwali parties around town when you wanna leave an impression but still feel comfy.
