With Diwali round the corner, the parties, galas, and dinners have begun to roll out. At Huda Beauty, it looked like festival glam with pink walls, a marigold-infused photo op, custom bangle stations, and an array of traditional sweet treats. Whereas Farhana Bodi brought together the region’s finest, including of course, her Dubai Bling peers, to an intimate soirée.
As part of her FH Circle community and in collaboration with Roberto Coin, the hostess stunned as a contemporary Maharani in a couture corset-fusion lehenga by Manish Malhotra. Whereas the rest understood the assignment, showcasing their best take on Indian glam. Turning our FOMO into inspo, we’ve bookmarked all the ways to turn up to the Festival of Lights shining brighter than ever. So for those still undecided on their Diwali glam, let this guide help you out.
Remember, Nothing Is Too Much
Between sarees, kaftans, and sets, the brighter you can go with the bling, the better! And traditional Indian wear has plenty to offer, from mirror work, sequined pieces, and crystal embellishments. For those looking to go all out, refer to Nadia Shahril Menon and her pink-purple anarkali dress, complete with brocade borders and a statement choker. For a subtle but still bright look, we turn to Lojain Omran and her beige crystal saree by Pallavi Puri.
What’s the Colour Scheme?
Almost anything goes for Diwali, but for those looking to nail the palette on the head, opt for red, gold, or royal blue. In fact, a jewel-toned palette is all you need for the festival. But for those who prefer a cool-toned look, opt for softer colours like baby pink, sky blue and gold, or lilac. Black is usually avoided, especially during rituals, but the shade is more acceptable during gatherings.
Bring a Statement Clutch
The bling on the bag must reflect the bling of the overall outfit. While we love the look of a typical top handle bag, unless it’s gilded in gold, it can skip this one night. Among Indian fashion, the bags you will often find are potli bags, a drawstring pouch with a short chain strap that functions as a wristlet. These bags are intricately made, featuring sequins, traditional embroidery, and more.
When in Doubt, Bring on the Jewellery
If you’re looking for a last-minute idea and traditional wear is not an option, opt for traditional jewellery over a gown instead. As seen on Nessma Fareed, who paired a mauve-brown dress with oxidised jhumkas and a maang tikka, creating an Indo-fusion look is one of the best ways to get creative with dressing for the festival.
Similarly, Bend the Rules With Custom Fits
One aspect about the Huda Beauty event that we absolutely loved was non-Indians blending their own culture with traditional Indian fits. Shora Al Bandari had her abaya reflect Indian mosaic patterns while Enri Carmody wore a maxi dress with traditional sequinned embroidery. Both ways embraced a fusion that celebrates the best of multiple cultures and is the best way to bend the rules and bring on a contemporary look.
Bring the Drama With the Eyes
And finally, when it comes to makeup, Indian glam is heavily centred on the eyes. So naturally, for Diwali we turn to the same codes, using kohl for our waterlines, shimmers on the eyelid, and filled-in eyebrows that frame the whole look together.
Designers To Shop
If last-minute plans have entered the agenda, check out these designers that bring in the glam and look effortless while doing it too.
Rashmi Kumari
For those looking for modest sarees, Indian-inspired dresses, and statement sets, Rashmi Kumari is the one to go. You can even take your pick between standardised sizing or custom tailoring, allowing for each piece to fit like a glove.
NSS by Pallavi Mohan
Standing for Not So Serious, NSS is all about the unconventional through ornamentation. Here you can find kaftans, dresses, and kurta sets, among others, with feather trims, beadwork, and more. Or for a last-minute pick, opt for one of the many bedazzled capes to wear over a gown to create a fusion outfit.
Zainab Chottani
Between formalwear, semiformals, and luxury pret, Zainab Chottani also brings a fusion design to her pieces. Her current edit of velvet pieces brings a refined statement to Diwali dressing without feeling like too much.
Nadima Saqib
Where cultural designs meet contemporary silhouettes, Nadima Saqib is a spot for festive kaftans and co-ord sets. Ornate embroidery and intricate metallic detailing are what you can find in these designer’s pieces.
Anaydara By Gunjan
Mainly working with velvet and zari embroidery, Anaydara By Gunjan’s collection features modest kurta sets, shararas, and co-ord sets. You can also find matching potli bags that complete each look.
Nirraamyaa
Drawing inspiration from Mughal-Indian, Arabian, and Baroque art, Nirraamyaa’s pieces are designed to be seen in. With plenty of modest silhouettes to choose from, you can take your pick from kaftans to modest lehengas, sets, and more.
