Stunning outfit ideas for Diwali 2022

The countdown has begun. Diwali, the festival of lights, is fast approaching, and with it comes the sartorial dilemma: what to wear? Donning new clothes on the auspicious day is entwined with the joy of the holiday, and you may be excited to plan your outfit, but in need of some fresh ideas.

Whether you're hosting a feast at home for your loved ones, attending a puja ceremony or stepping out for a cards party at a friend's place, here's all the inspiration you'll need to ace festive dressing for Diwali 2022. 

Vibrant yellows

Make your presence felt in bold shades of mustard, ochre and gold that reflect the spirit of Diwali. Pick a tone-on-tone kurta with churidars in Chanderi silk for an outfit reminiscent of yesteryear elegance. An embroidered blouse and voluminous skirt in similar tones would give off the same vibes.

Bold hues for two

A matching look is perfect for couples who like to coordinate, the closest of cousins and other BFFs. The floral-printed set shown here is a lovely, lightweight and fuss-free alternative to, say, a heavy lehenga. And the white kurta-pyjama set in silk or something similar, layered with a sleeveless Nehru jacket with a sheen, makes for an opulent outfit.

Muted shades

If you favour a calming colour palette, you can borrow ideas from these elegant duos, dressed in the palest of pinks, cream and white. Pair a pristine white shirt with a light-toned suit. Or perfectly match your six-yard drape to your blouse if you favour a sari (pick a ready-to-wear one to keep things hassle-free). A traditional look like this might be just what you're looking for if you're celebrating Diwali with your in-laws or extended family.

Subtle details

Maybe you want to ditch the ornate lehengas and sherwanis this year and go with a cleaner silhouette and understated style instead. Here are two great ideas: a blouse with bow closures and one with ruffled layers — both worn with pleated skirts of soft netted fabric. And we love this sherwani with a Mughal-inspired floral motif and its subtle yet special ornamentation.

Coordinated sets for the family

If you need to plan your children's outfits as well as your own, why not coordinate! Match the embroidery details and colours on your lehenga and bandhgala suits with the designs on the kids' lehenga choli sets. What better way to make an unforgettable entry at your relative's Diwali bash?

Playful prints and patterns 

Women looking to move away from traditional Indian styles might opt for a printed crop top and sharara set like the one featured above. Throw on a pair of sneakers to add modern flair. Meanwhile, men can experiment with embroidered vests and jackets that lend a playful element.

All-black ensembles

If you want to push the sartorial envelope, consider midnight black. Embrace contemporary styles like a one-shoulder blouse and matching skirt in the eye-catching colour, making sure to add just the right amount of bling. For men, this black kurta-pyjama set makes a dapper Diwali outfit too. Whether you're celebrating at home or with your friends, a bold look like this will definitely be one for the books.

Shweta Gandhi is a Toronto-based fashion and lifestyle journalist. Follow her at @svetarot.