Navratri is just around the corner and, while everyone else seems to have their festive wardrobe figured out, I’m still wondering what I’m going to wear. With nights of garba, dandiya and celebrations stretching well past midnight, the occasion calls for a look that can keep up. The colours, the music, the lights and, of course, the promise of dancing the night away all make it the perfect excuse to dress up.
This season, the answer lies somewhere between timeless Indian craft and a little bit of drama. Think vibrant Bandhani, intricate gota patti and rich textiles designed to move with you as you twirl your way through the evening. And if you’re still looking for that one outfit that will make its way straight to your
Torani
If you like your festive dressing with a generous dose of colour and storytelling, Torani deserves a spot at the top of your wishlist. The label’s occasionwear brings together traditional Indian influences with expressive silhouettes, intricate detailing and rich colour palettes, making its lehengas particularly suited to a celebration as vibrant as Navratri. From statement-making skirts to more fluid festive separates, there is plenty to choose from when you want your outfit to do the talking.
Shyamal & Bhumika
There is something inherently regal about a Shyamal & Bhumika creation. The designer duo blend Indian heritage with luxurious textiles and intricate handcraft, bringing together zardozi, aari, antique gota and hand embroidery across sweeping lehengas and richly detailed silhouettes.
For Navratri, turn to the label for an elevated take on festive dressing. Think jewel tones, beautiful volume and embroidery that catches the light as you move, all rooted in the duo’s love for Indian craft and finished with a sophisticated, couture-led sensibility.
Annu Patel
If there’s one designer to turn to for a Navratri look steeped in Gujarati spirit, it’s Annu Patel. The Vadodara-based designer brings the richness of Gujarati craftsmanship into contemporary occasionwear, with Bandhani taking centre stage across her festive creations.
And honestly, what could be more fitting for a night of garba than a beautifully crafted Bandhani lehenga? With its distinctive tie-dye patterns and celebratory colours, Bandhani already carries the spirit of Gujarat, while Annu Patel gives it a more polished, occasion-ready finish.
Sheetal Batra
Gota patti has a way of making even the simplest movement catch the light, which is exactly why it feels so right for Navratri. Sheetal Batra has made the craft a signature across her festive wardrobe, pairing it with fabrics such as silk Chanderi and raw silk and complementing it with details like Kashmiri tilla, dabka, zardosi and pearls.
Her Navratri edit is particularly worth exploring if you want something that feels traditional but still easy to dance in. From wide-flared anarkalis and ghararas to statement lehengas with colours like hot pink, mustard, deep red, and ivory bring plenty of festive energy. Whether you’re heading to a garba night or a family celebration, these are pieces that can take you from the first dandiya round to the final song without feeling too heavy.
Tatwamm Couture
If beautiful textiles and exceptional craftsmanship are at the heart of your festive wardrobe, Tatwamm is one to bookmark. The label brings together handwoven Indian textiles and intricate embroidery, with its Rajwadi collection weaving together Kanchipuram and Pochampally weaves, Bandhani from Bhuj and zardozi from rural Bengal.
There is an old-world richness to Tatwamm that feels right at home during Navratri. Vibrant hues, silk and ornate handwork come together in regal yet wearable silhouettes, making it a beautiful choice for anyone looking beyond the usual lehenga.
The best Navratri outfit is not necessarily the most heavily embroidered one or the brightest in the room. It is the one that makes you want to dance a little longer, twirl a little faster and stay out for just one more round of garba.
From the unmistakable charm of Bandhani to the glow of gota patti and the richness of handwoven textiles, these designers prove that festive dressing can still feel personal. So, if you’re like me and have somehow reached the week before Navratri without deciding what to wear, consider this your sign to start shopping. Your perfect garba look might already be waiting on your wishlist.