Let’s Talk Garba Looks: My Go-To Outfit Ideas for Navratri Nights
Okay, let’s be real for a second — Navratri isn’t just about the dancing (although yes, I’ll be spinning till my feet give up). It’s also that time of the year when dressing up becomes part of the celebration. The colors, the sparkle, the accessories... I genuinely get excited just planning my outfits.
If you’re like me and live for those what-are-you-wearing-tonight group chats, this post is for you. Whether you’re a classic chaniya choli loyalist or someone who wants to try something a bit more offbeat this year, I’ve got a few ideas that might help you plan your perfect look.
The OG Chaniya Choli – But Make It YOU
I’ll never stop loving a good, old-school chaniya choli. It’s flowy, vibrant, and just screams Garba night. I usually go for something in bold jewel tones — think deep purple, emerald green, or hot pink — especially with a ton of mirror work that catches every bit of light when I twirl (yes, I twirl a lot).
This year, I’m thinking of ditching the heavy dupatta and going for a cape-style drape. It’s less fussy and honestly makes the whole outfit feel more modern without losing that traditional charm.
Little tip: Add a waist belt — it pulls the look together and gives your silhouette a little structure.
Mix It Up: Crop Top + Skirt Combo
Some nights I just don’t feel like going full traditional, and that’s where the crop top + lehenga skirt combo comes in. It’s cute, comfy, and totally remixable. I have this off-shoulder blouse I wore to a wedding last year — pairing it with a new flared skirt (maybe with some sequins or embroidery) is such an easy way to put a look together without starting from scratch.
Honestly, this is the look I go for when I know I’ll be out for hours and need to be able to breathe and move (and eat, let’s be honest).
Dhoti Pants & Short Kurti = My Underrated Fave
I don’t know why more people aren’t rocking this combo — dhoti pants are a dream. Pair them with a bright short kurti or even a backless blouse, and boom — you’ve got style and comfort in one. I wore this look last year for one of the weekday Garba nights and got more compliments than I expected.
Bonus? You can dance for hours and not feel restricted. Highly recommend for nights when the dandiya energy is full throttle.
The Power of a Long Jacket
I only started doing jacket-style outfits a couple of years ago, and I’m officially obsessed. Throw a long, flowy embroidered jacket over a basic lehenga or even pants and a crop top, and it instantly looks like you made effort — even if you didn’t.
It’s especially great if you’re rewearing a look and want to switch things up without buying something new.
Shop Your Own Closet: The DIY Look
One of my favorite things to do before Navratri is raid my own closet (and my mom’s!). You’d be surprised how many hidden gems are already in there. Last year I turned a heavy dupatta into a wrap skirt and paired it with a plain black crop top — totally random, but it worked.
If you’ve got a cute blouse from a wedding, pair it with a plain skirt or vice versa. Mix textures, mix patterns, go wild. It’s Navratri — the more color, the better.
Finishing Touches — Because Accessories Deserve Their Own Section
Footwear: I’ve made the mistake of wearing heels. Don’t. Go for juttis or flats or those tiny wedges if you must. You’ll thank yourself around round 6 of Garba.
Jewelry: Chunky oxidized earrings and bangles are my go-to. Maang tikka if I’m feeling fancy. Nose ring if I’m feeling bold.
Makeup: Honestly, I just go for shimmery eyes, a bold lip, and a lot of highlighter. And yes, the bindi always comes through to complete the look.
Final Thoughts?
Wear what makes you feel good. Some nights I go all-out, other nights I just want to be able to move and vibe. Either way, if you feel like your best self in it, then that’s the right Garba outfit.
So here’s to dancing till our feet hurt, sweating off our makeup, and looking fabulous while doing it. Happy Navratri, babes! Let’s make it a stylish one.