An extended monsoon may have compelled the city’s garba and dandiya performers to adapt, but they certainly haven’t dulled their shine. Here’s how readers are keeping their garb stylish yet practical
Snehalata Jain opts for cheery colours
The weather gods are playing spoilsport again, with heavy showers predicted for most of this week — a week full of music, dance and revelry for most Mumbaikars. Even as organisers scurry to hoist domes, lay down anti-skid carpets and restructure their pandals to minimise mishaps, attendees are rethinking their outfit choices to stay comfortable, stylish and dry. From lighter fabrics to sensible shoes, we spoke to four enthusiasts about how they’re decking up to dance.
Light and bright, minus the fuss
Toral Mazmudar, 32, Gamdevi
Toral Mazmudar will optfor comfort this season
With the rains being so unpredictable this year, I’m choosing comfort with a festive twist. For me, this translates into breathable, quick-dry fabrics such as georgette and instead of heavy silks or velvets, since they don’t weigh me down if there’s a drizzle. I also prefer lighter lehenga skirts with shorter hemlines to avoid splashes, paired with chic crop tops or cholis that can later be styled with denims or palazzos. Pre-stitched or smaller dupattas work best while dancing, and I’m skipping white or very light colours so stains don’t show — vibrant jewel tones feel more festive.
Footwear with rubber soles is a must for slippery grounds. If you’re opting for Indo-Western attire, sneakers can be a fun and practical choice. I’m also keeping jewellery minimal, trying out fusion-wear versions, and adding a festive touch with nail art inspired by Bandhani or mirror-work. Phones in cute traditional slings complete the look — trendy and fuss-free!
Tradition with a twist
Neha K Kanbar, 44, Juhu
Neha Kanbar recommends keeping it light and practical
One of the easiest ways to trim bulk from your garba outfit is to swap heavy lehengas for dhoti pants. I am partial to the Indo-Western fusion look, and ankle-length co-ord sets ensure that there’s no puddle drama. Additionally, I’m skipping juttis and leather sandals for waterproof flats, sneakers or even chic boots. Make-up is simple with waterproof kajal, liner, mascara and liquid lipstick that can withstand the rain and heavy humidity. For jewellery, I’m picking lightweight statement earrings or bangles over heavy chokers so that I don’t chafe my skin.
A brighter colour story for the season
Snehalata Jain, 42, Vashi
When the weather is so grey and gloomy, I prefer an updated colour story, with light pastels and cheery colours in breathable, natural fabrics. Most of the venues I visit are indoors so I’m not overly concerned about dampness. But with the high humidity, staying comfortable is especially important. I’m also cutting down excess bulk with sheer dupattas in organza over long, mirrored ones and thread-work over sequins and heavy embroidery. However, I will spend a few evenings at outdoor locations — on these days, I will opt out of lehengas, and wear jeans with a plain black crop top, letting an ornate dupatta or cape take centre stage.
Simple but unexpected
Jainam Vora, 31, Malad
Jainam Vora prefers a blend of sleek kurtas and dhoti pants
This Navratri, I wanted my festive style to be a perfect balance of tradition and modern aesthetics. I went all out with traditional kurtas and statement jewellery that reflect the essence of the festival; but to give it a unique twist, I paired them with sneakers that I designed myself. I created DIY styles by adding borders and different materials to the sneakers, giving them a festive yet contemporary vibe. Sleeker kurta cuts over voluminous kediyu, and sharp dhoti pants are another combination I’m partial to. To keep the look more modern, I’m opting for largely monochromatic fits with pops of bright colour.
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