26 March,2026 03:14 PM IST | Mumbai | Maitrai Agarwal
Image for representational purpose only. Photo Courtesy: File pic
Navratri is more than just a festival, it is a whirlwind of 360-degree fashion, rhythmic movement, and cultural vibrance. In 2026, festive fashion has evolved into a blend of heritage and modern maximalism, where tradition meets tech and stability meets style.
Whether you are hosting a traditional chowki, visiting friends for a festive meal, or attending a serene aarti, the way you accessorize tells a story of devotion and personal style. To help you navigate this period, we've gathered exclusive insights from fashion experts. Here is how to transform your festive wardrobe into a masterpiece of light, even if your feet never leave the ground.
According to Paridhi Patodia and Shrishti Agarwal, founders of the artisanal label Parishri, the magic of Navratri styling lies in the unexpected. While many focus solely on the neckline, Patodia argues that because you are constantly moving and spinning, your outfit must work from every perspective.
"Most people focus only on earrings or a necklace, but the real magic often comes from the accessories that people don't think about," she explains.
To achieve a truly complete look, the duo recommends these six essential additions:
1. The Kamarband
A gold-plated kamarband (waist belt) adds immediate structure. Even the simplest ghagra or sari is transformed into a styled, festive ensemble once the waist is defined.
2. Payal
In a festival defined by footwork, payal (anklets) are essential. A delicate gold-plated payal adds a subtle elegance that highlights your movement on the dance floor.
3. Back jewellery
With many modern cholis featuring deep-cut backs, this negative space is a canvas. A gold-plated back chain or pendant falling along the spine ensures you look striking even when your back is turned to the crowd.
4. Haathphool
A haathphool highlights their grace and adds richness without the cumbersome weight of heavy bangles.
5. Baju bandh
For those wearing sleeveless or short-sleeved blouses, the baju bandh (armlets) offers a regal, traditional frame for the arms.
6. Hair accessories
Don't neglect the crowning glory. Woven gold-plated chains or pins in a braid pull the entire look together, making it feel curated rather than accidental.
As we move through 2026, the trend of âModern Maximalism' is taking centre stage. Rushin Jhaveri, co-founder of Modera, explains that this involves bold, layered styling with a contemporary edge, "We are seeing a shift where traditional lehengas are elevated by metallic belts and geometric chains." Interestingly, technology is also finding a place in our jewellery boxes. "Tech-integrated accessories - pieces that can hold digital memories or connect to personal stories - are emerging, bringing a modern dimension to the festival while respecting its cultural spirit," he adds. This manifests in digital heirlooms - sculptural pieces embedded with near-field tech that link to personal memories or micro-LED fibres woven into traditional threadwork to mimic the soft glow of a festive lamp.
Building the Navratri capsule accessory kit
If you are starting from scratch, Jhaveri, suggests focusing on versatility. You don't need a hundred pieces; you need the right five. Here are his essentials for transitioning through nine nights:
1. Statement jhumkas: These anchor the look. Their sculptural movement frames the face and pairs effortlessly with both lehengas and fusion wear.
2. The choker necklace: Highly adaptable for any neckline. Look for kundan, polki, or enamel detailing for richness.
3. Stackable bangles: Mix textures like mirror-work and oxidised finishes to add sound, sparkle, and energy to your dance.
4. Statement maang tikka: A piece that is neither too minimal nor too bridal can instantly elevate a simple ghagra-choli.
5.The kamarband: Beyond aesthetics, it secures your dupatta, allowing you to move freely.
How do you mix gold, oxidised silver, resham (threadwork), and mirror-work without looking cluttered? Patodia and Agarwal offer a simple golden rule: Balance.
1. The anchor piece: Choose one statement piece (like a bold choker) and build around it with lighter elements.
2. Layer for depth: Instead of one heavy necklace, layer a choker with a longer pendant. This adds depth without the physical weight.
3. Spread the sparkle: Don't concentrate all your jewellery around the neck. By spreading elements to your waist (kamarband) and anklets (payal), the look feels balanced and effortless.
High stability style
"Navratri is as much an athletic event as it is a fashion showcase," notes Jhaveri. To ensure your jewellery stays on through the day and doesn't cause discomfort, he shares these pro-stability tips:
1. Weight distribution: Choose lighter constructions like hollow or openwork designs to keep pieces from feeling heavy.
2. The ear chain secret: Use ear chains (saharas) for heavy jhumkas to hook into the hair and distribute weight.
3. The glue trick: Use a tiny drop of eyelash glue to keep your maang tikka centred, and secure it with crossed bobby pins.
4. Stay close: Chokers and fitted bangles stay more stable during movement than loose, dangling pieces.
Navratri is a celebration of energy, colour, and movement. Whether you are leaning into the regal warmth of gold-plated pieces or experimenting with tech-integrated modern maximalism, the goal remains the same: to enhance your natural energy. As our experts suggest, when styled thoughtfully, even a few well-chosen pieces can transform a simple outfit into a mesmerising festive masterpiece.
