Celebrated at the end of the 9 day fest that is Navratri, Dussehra is one of the most diverse and versatile celebrations in India. Everyone has their own versions - many celebrate this day by the effigy bonfires and reenacting Ramayan in song & performance; some make it a point to give thanks to their prized possessions and their opportunities for education. In some regions it is notable for large parades, and some celebrate this day by charitable giving.
A Dussehra celebration can be seen as low-key or bombastic, and the festival deserves a dedicated ethnic garb that matches its multifaceted nature. Match your celebration and sparkle in ethnic attire ranging from sparkling lehengas to swishing sharara designs as you say goodbye to Navratri season & gear up for Diwali.
Of-course this year is not going to be the normal kind of celebration, however, this just makes your OOTD that much more important! Wondering if you should sparkle in a sequined kurta, a light muslin set, or a vibrant gharara silhouette? Set the holiday vibes right this year - scroll on for a glimpse into 9 unique and trending outfit ideas for Dussehra 2020!
It’s no secret that pastels are in this season. From fresh mint shades to soft blues and lilac tones, donning anything pastel this season is a sign that you’re in with the times. The good news? Pastels are the epitome of sophistication when it comes to Indian festive wear. Exude a soft and gentle sparkle with a touch of ethnic flair by opting for pretty pastel sharara designs this Dussehra.
Recommendations: Check out this powder blue beauty with gota patti detailing from Aanchho or if you’re looking to go all out in pricing, you can try this lilac hued stunner from Megha & Jigar.
Grungy ethnic - a little bit of traditional charm paired with a bite of rock ‘n’ roll - this combo oozes that modern and fashion forward elegance. Originally made popular by designers like Anamika Khanna and Tarun Tahliani, this is a combination that is sure to have heads turning. Make a statement on the gram with this unique ethnic silhouette.
Recommendations: Go for this uber sleek and affordable asymmetric kurta + dhoti pant set from Shree or opt for this glamorous designer ensemble by Vani Vats.
Just like the pastel trend for sharara designs - Tie-dye and shibori printed sarees are one of the most enduring Indian wear trends of 2020. Super trendy, on-spot with the current zeitgeist and a wonderful way to channel a traditional, coveted craft through ethnic wear; a shibori saree is an easy choice this season!
Recommendations: We love this super affordable Bhagalpuri pure cotton sari for its soft-glam elegance and this vibrant look from ‘The Loom’ if you want to go bold with color.
If you are looking for luxe and traditional types of ethnic Kurti that channel a well-loved Indian craft, look no further than a hand-block printed kurta set. Featuring beautiful floral and mughal motifs, there is a wide variety of this outfit available in the domestic market.
Recommendations: This classy sage-green set from The Secret Label is sure to score you some brownie points at your family festivities. If you’re looking for something ultra-easy and low price, go for this elegant burgundy option from Amazon.
Simply sober looks are not for us all - some of us revel in the dramatic bold flair of a lehenga set! However, for a festival like Dussehra, you can go off-beat and experiment a little with this flamboyant outfit.
Recommendations: We love this classic Biba set this Dussehra, or go for this chic designer one from Aakansha Singh in pristine off-white for a style statement like no other.
A crop-top and skirt combination is a no-brainer when it comes to staying youthful and stylish for Dussehra festivities. A chic and easy-to-execute look, this is one ethnic outfit that every woman should have in her closet!
Recommendations: Go chic and stylish with this contemporary crop-top and skirt set from Anita Dongre, or go super affordable and on-trend with this mint green combo at Myntra.
The gentle glimmer of sequin details and embellishments are unmatched when it comes to creating soft glamor with ethnic wear. Sultry and classy, the gilded appeal of this outfit option for Dussehra cannot be understated. Feel extra pretty in this outfit idea for the festive season.
Recommendations: We’re starry eyed at this sequined suit set from Kashish and this high-end design option from Talking threads for that sophisticated glimmer details.
A modern day hybrid of the Indian designer scene, this type of sari needs no draping and no introduction! A pre-draped dhoti-version with a pallu, go for this indo-fusion garment for a chic, experimental and unique festive outfit.
Recommendations: For us, printed is the way to go this Dussehra! Opt for this unmissable Payal Singhal Pret style or go for this chic cream-colored beauty from Ishin.
Brocade is a classic Indian wear staple. The landscape of traditional ethnic wear wouldn't be the same without it and no festive season is complete without this eternal style. Bold yet classy, a brocade suit set will have you feeling and looking your best for Dussehra.
Recommendations: Go for this pretty Banarasi cotton-silk brocade suit, or go big and pricey in this high-fashion in this rich maroon ensemble by Label Earthen.
Dussehra is a great opportunity to let loose, celebrate and give thanks - and we would love to see you do so feeling great in these stylish outfit ideas. Gear up - the merriment is just getting started!