October marks the start of the festive season with everyone busy shopping for the perfect outfits. This, obviously, is followed by scouring the boutiques for jewellery that goes with each of these outfits, a detour to the local tailor for last-minute alterations, footwear that’s versatile, and finally stocking up on make-up. It’s a lot, we get it. To save you time and keep you from endlessly perusing, we've rounded up some stunning festive picks from your favourite designers—each one stunning in its own right.
Raw Mango
Not the kind to do things in half measures, Sanjay Garg’s Raw Mango has a festive collection that’s a delight. Brocade, gold, and silver elements feature heavily in the label’s offering. Each piece comes with an alluring story, a translation of the designer’s vision while incorporating regional and local influences in the work.
Amit Aggarwal
The latest Banarasi Edit from the label is like finding an opulent saree as you rummage through your grandmother’s closet. This edit uses pre-loved textiles, preserving the fabric’s integrity while infusing new life into it. For the festive season, indulge in the reinterpretation of the well-loved Banarasi saree.
Torani
Not the kind to shy away from colour, the label’s latest edit leans heavily into the richness of maroon and earthy tones. The brand’s festive collection celebrates the power of femininity. The detailing is exquisite with zari, zardozi, and dabka work taking centre stage.
Anavila
Anavila’s latest showcase, titled Payanam, which translates to “journey” in Tamil, is a textile collection inspired by the opulent heritage of Chettinad, Tamil Nadu. Weaves, checkered patterns, a unique amalgamation of warp and weft, vivid colours, intricate borders and fine linens, Payanam takes the wearer on a journey through the bylanes of Chettinad. The metallic textiles work wonderfully for the festive season.
Jayanti Reddy
Paying homage to her roots in Hyderabad, Jayanti Reddy’s collection for the season features heavy Nizami influences and the house’s signature motifs. Take your pick from capes, corsets, sari gowns, and lehengas, all of which come with khada dupattas which are a Jayanti Reddy staple. The rich Banarasi textiles and delicate gota work make each outfit art in motion.
Ridhi Mehra
Right in time for the festivities, Ridhi Mehra’s capsule collection titled Jazz-E-Jashn is perfect for those with a penchant for the vibrant. Here, you will find bold hues, intricate threadwork, and chic prints. The silhouettes are contemporary with a dash of the classic, and it’s perfect for when you want to add drama to your celebrations.
Pankaj And Nidhi
You’ll be spoilt for choice with this power couple’s label’s festive offerings. There’s Loop filled with deeper hues and solid colours that are a huge departure from the brand’s affinity to prints. And there’s Via Roma, an effervescent collection that delivers on vintage charm and romance.
Qbik
Founded by Gurinder Singh and Vrinda Sachdev, Qbik’s portfolio has eclectic pieces that are best described as wearable art. The brand’s intricate patterns on their pieces, featuring a mix of embroidery, whimsical metal elements, and patterns have earned them a loyal fan base. Their blouses are extremely popular amongst the connoisseurs and it’s perfect for the festive season.
Aisha Rao
You can spot an Aisha Rao piece from miles away and this festive season, if you want to make a statement, an ensemble from this label should be on your ‘to wear’ list. Her colour palette is refreshing, there’s an interplay between vibrant hues with calming pastels which make for an interesting contrast.
Abhinav Mishra
A post shared by NEEDLEDUST (@needledust)ore is more is the mantra when it comes to Abhinav Mishra. Big, bold colours, intricate craftsmanship, and lots of mirrorwork dominate this label’s pieces and they are perfect for this season’s festivities. The designer recently collaborated with Needledust to create a line of footwear and accessories, just in time for Diwali.
More is more is the mantra when it comes to Abhinav Mishra. Big, bold colours, intricate craftsmanship, and lots of mirrorwork dominate this label’s pieces and they are perfect for this season’s festivities. The designer recently collaborated with Needledust to create a line of footwear and accessories, just in time for Diwali.
Mishru
Swapna Anumolu’s label Mishru’s edit for the festive season is anything but ordinary. Inspired by architecture, the silhouettes were strong and structured, while the colours were earthy and bright, making for an interesting contrast. There was plenty at play with beads, sequins, and embroidery creating interesting visual and textural stories.
Punit Balana
Punit Balana's Festive 2024 collection paid homage to the Pink City of Jaipur. Maximalists will love his approach to the festive season—the pieces feature artistic prints and saturated colours derived from the vibrant Rajasthani culture. There’s plenty of layering making every ensemble versatile; the brand is also size-inclusive.
Ekaya Banaras
Ekaya, a handloom luxury brand, has launched its collaboration with stylist Bhawna Sharma, know for her work in the series Made In Heaven. Bringing a sense of playfulness to Banarasi textiles the collection showcases the such as the vibrant energy of the Swinging 60s, celebrates the houndstooth, and draws inspiration from the nautical themes of the French Riviera.
All images: The brands
Also read: The boldest fashion statements from Lakmé Fashion Week 2024
Also read: 'Princess Diaries' India edition: 5 iconic style moments from India’s most glamorous royals