Shararas, ghararas, co-ord sets and Indo-western outfits are giving Diwali wardrobes a vibrant look this year, while traditional sarees and Anarkalis continue to hold their place. Another noticeable change is in the colours. The usual festive favourites of red, orange and royal blue are sharing space with pastel pink, sage green, grey and cream, with gold and silver adding a festive touch. “Earlier, brighter colours were the regular choice for Diwali. This time, customers are showing more interest in softer shades,” explained Rahul and Swati Agrawal, owners of a fashion store in Sitabuldi. Tissue fabric and Banarasi silk are among the popular choices, with Banarasi now finding its way beyond sarees into suits and contemporary ethnic outfits.

 

Designer-inspired cuts and silhouettes are also influencing festive fashion. Zardozi, thread work and chikankari remain prominent in suits, kurtis and anarkalis, adding detailed work to the outfits. Kundan and polki designs, meanwhile, are moving beyond jewellery. Their patterns are being recreated on blouses, dresses, purses and clutches, bringing traditional jewellery-inspired detailing into festive clothing and accessories.

 

Preferences also vary across age groups. “Younger shoppers are leaning towards Indo-western wear, palazzos, co-ords and shorter kurtas, while older women continue to prefer sarees and traditional outfits,” Swati shared. Men’s festive fashion, meanwhile, remains largely unchanged. Kurta-pajamas continue to be the preferred choice, with printed and embroidered options in short and long styles. Younger men are trying shorter kurtas, while middle-aged buyers generally stick to regular lengths. While the choice of outfits is expanding, shoppers are keeping a close watch on their spending. “2026 is a price-conscious Diwali. Customers want good designs but at reasonable prices. They want fashionable clothes, but are equally particular about how much they spend,” explained Rahul. Festive clothing in the wider market starts at around Rs 799, while the emphasis remains on offering attractive designs and detailing at prices buyers are comfortable paying.