Must-have fashion trends for this festive season: A blend of pastels, sparkle, and eco-friendly choices

Festival fashion: This year, metallics will reign supreme. Silver, gold, and even bronze will grace both accessories and outfits. From shimmering lehengas to sarees with metallic borders, these elements add a bold statement to festive wear (Image: Canva)

With Diwali and Karwa Chauth around the corner, the festive season brings exciting changes in fashion trends. These celebrations blend traditional and modern styles. From pastel colours and sparkling details to sustainable fabrics, there’s a focus on looking stylish while being mindful of the environment. This year’s festive fashion is all about celebrating with elegance and responsibility.

"With fashion trends evolving globally, this Diwali season promises a mix of traditional elegance and modern innovation. Whether it’s the return of traditional silhouettes or the use of cutting-edge fabrics and patterns, there’s something for everyone in the marketplace this Diwali,” says Ankit Jaipuria, Co-Founder of ZYOD.

Jaipuria shares the trend that will dominate this festive season:

• The pastels: Move away from the traditionally bold colours of festivals and opt for the calming allure of pastels. Expect soft lavenders, peachy blushes, and mint greens to take center stage in festive collections. The excitement lies in how these pastel tones are paired with intricate handwork, from delicate zari work, mirror embellishments, and modern embroidery techniques. These soft hues bring a fresh, modern elegance to the festive wardrobe while still offering the richness that celebrations demand.

• Shimmering metallics: The festive season is synonymous with sparkle, and this year, metallics will reign supreme. Silver, gold, and even bronze will grace both accessories and outfits. From shimmering lehengas to sarees with metallic borders, these elements add a bold statement to festive wear.  Use metallics to infuse a sense of luxury without overwhelming the design.

• Fusion silhouettes: The fusion of traditional Indian wear with Western silhouettes is gaining immense popularity. This season, styles like saree gowns, dhoti pants paired with crop tops, and lehenga skirts with blazers or jackets will steal the show. These designs offer comfort and flair while staying true to the festive spirit, making them a go-to for fashion-forward gentry.

• Sustainability: There is a  significant rise in the demand for sustainable fabrics like organic cotton, bamboo silk, and recycled textiles. These eco-friendly fabrics add a layer of responsibility to the festive season, allowing fashion to be both beautiful and environmentally conscious.

• Statement dupatta: This season, the dupatta transcends its role as a mere accessory to become a statement piece. Look out for richly embroidered, patchwork-heavy dupattas in vibrant hues like fuchsia, mustard, and royal blue. These dupattas, when paired with simple kurtas or lehengas, add a festive touch that balances simplicity with opulence. It’s all about using the dupatta to rev up the  look, making it the centerpiece of your outfit.