How to dress like royalty without spending a fortune? Style guide for the keeps

Priceless items like a Banarasi sari woven years ago, a zari-bordered dupatta, or even a pair of temple-inspired jhumkas are worth far more than any off-the-rack piece. Instead of saving them for “special occasions,” bring them into rotation (Image: Canva)

When it comes to Indian celebrations, every moment is steeped in grandeur and so it is the fashion. However, dressing like a queen doesn’t mean blowing up your bank account on the latest couture lehenga or designer jewels. The essence of royalty lies in timelessness, heritage, and a carefully curated sense of elegance.

If you know where to look (often right in your own home) and how to style what you already own, you can channel your inner maharani without spending a bomb.

• Revive your heirlooms:  Open your mother’s trunk, raid your grandmother’s wardrobe and you’ll probably stumble upon treasures most designers today would envy. Priceless items like a Banarasi sari woven years ago, a zari-bordered dupatta, or even a pair of temple-inspired jhumkas are worth far more than any off-the-rack piece. Instead of saving them for “special occasions,” bring them into rotation.

Pair a vintage Kanjeevaram with a contemporary backless blouse, or drape a brocade dupatta over a sleek monochrome kurta set. Small tweaks like adding tassels, embroidery, or a fresh border can give these classics new life.

• Invest in handmade accessories: A true queen doesn’t need a full jewellery box because she knows the power of one statement piece. Swap factory-made baubles for handcrafted marvels: think jadau chokers, meenakari earrings, or even a polki maangtikka. If fine jewellery feels out of reach, explore artisanal silver or gold-plated options that carry the same intricate detailing.

• Choose fabrics with legacy: When it comes to textiles, royalty has always been synonymous with handloom. Fabrics like Banarasi silk, Patola, Paithani, Jamdani, and Chanderi are not only luxurious but also carry centuries of heritage. You don’t need an entire trousseau of them — just one standout piece can make an impact.

Imagine a deep emerald velvet lehenga with zari embroidery at a wedding or a soft Chanderi in muted mauve for a festive dinner. Keep the cuts clean and the palette refined; let the fabric speak for itself. The beauty of these weaves is that they never go out of style, so consider them investments rather than expenses.

• Play with a regal palette: Royalty has always spoken in colour. Jewel tones like sapphire blue, emerald green, ruby red, and deep purple are synonymous with grandeur. But understated tones like ivory, champagne, muted golds can be just as powerful when styled with bold accents.