Diwali 2021: The best printed lehengas, saris and shararas to add to y

Rajasthan's popular Dabu to Gujarat's heritage-rich Ajrakh, prints and its myriad forms are brought to life with photorealistic precision across India. Thanks to the timelessness and uniqueness of each craft and colourful motif, whether done by hand or with the assistance of a machine, our summer stash would be remiss without those effortless printed dresses, co-ord sets and kurtas. But who says we are bound to wear prints only when the temperatures soar? This Diwali, ranking high on the list of ways to bring joy to our festive wardrobes is the addition of prints, from bold patterns to demure designs.

Bollywood celebrities who nailed printed Indian wear

A number of Bollywood’s best-dressed stars, too, have made a case for wearing prints with their Indian wear of late. Take Katrina Kaif for instance. The actor opted for a striking red floral lehenga for the promotional rounds of her upcoming film, Sooryavanshi. Featuring painterly yellow and crimson blooms on the diaphanous skirt and dupatta, a set, like hers, would not only make for the perfect Diwali puja outfit but also come in handy at a friend’s wedding in the future. Aditi Rao Hydari was spotted in a rani pink kurta set by Label Anushree, which was complemented with printed sharara pants. Sonakshi Sinha chose ivory brick flower dhoti and a cape for an appearance on a television reality show—this is easily the must-invest outfit we are bookmarking for the next Diwali cards party on the calendar.

10 printed Indian wear outfits you can invest in right now

Between being romanced by florals, enticed by tie dye and glued to geometrics, the festive season’s plethora of prints is as mood-lifting and statement-making as they come. On eye-catching lehengas such as Arpita Mehta’s stunning sand and yellow lehenga and embroidered blouse set, Anita Dongre’s ombré peach and green Naima choli + skirt set or Kshitij Jalori’s Bentota Jaal Mirissa purple creation, florals take much of the guesswork out of styling. All you need is a pair of jhumkas and juttis and you’ll be ready for that Diwali puja and dinner. Punit Balana’s turquoise resham and mirror work skirt and top puts a spotlight on leheriya. On separates with clashing prints, including gharara set, Payal Singhal’s blouse and low crotch pants with Ikat star print, and tunic and flared pants, they inject vibrancy and take the monotony out of festive outfits. On a printed sari like black organza drape, chevron patterns and florals come together for an outfit that would work on multiple occasions.

Whether you fall under the maximalist camp who’d appreciate bold patterns, a minimalist with an affinity for delicate chintz or simply someone who prioritises comfort, let us provide you with some much-needed inspiration. Ahead, we have made our cases for Diwali 2021 dressing—and it turns out we will be wearing anything but solids.