Durga Puja is more than just a religious celebration; it’s a cultural extravaganza where fashion takes center stage.
Whether you’re participating in morning rituals, enjoying bhog, or hopping from one pandal to another, this festival offers a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, and your wardrobe should reflect that.
This article will take you through 15 traditional and trendy styles for Durga Puja, giving you a comprehensive guide to stand out this festive season.
From the timeless red-and-white saree to trendy Indo-Western outfits, we’ve got you covered!
1. Classic Red and White Saree for the Morning Anjali
No Durga Puja is complete without donning the iconic red-and-white saree.
This classic look represents purity and devotion and is perfect for the Anjali ceremony, typically performed on Ashtami morning.
How to Style:
- The Saree:
Opt for a traditional cotton or silk saree with a bright red border.
Look for traditional motifs like paisleys, florals, or intricate Bengali kantha stitches that add a unique element to the saree.
- Blouse Pairing:
You can stick to a classic red blouse with elbow-length sleeves for a traditional look, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with puffed sleeves or a high-neck blouse with intricate designs.
For a trendier twist, try pairing it with a statement blouse in contrasting colors like gold or black with embroidered detailing.
- Accessorize:
Keep it traditional with gold or temple jewelry, such as jhumkas, a choker necklace, and gold bangles.
Don’t forget the red bindi, and use kohl to highlight your eyes for that quintessential Bengali look.
Trendy Twist:
To make this look more contemporary, you can experiment with blouse styles such as off-shoulder, backless, or cape blouses.
Another trendy option is to drape the saree in a modern style, like the belted saree drape, which not only adds structure but also keeps the pallu in place while you go about your rituals.
2. Lightweight Cotton Sarees for Comfortable Pandal Hopping
Pandal hopping is a significant part of Durga Puja celebrations, often lasting all day and well into the night. To stay comfortable yet stylish, lightweight cotton sarees are your best bet.
How to Style:
- The Saree:
Opt for handwoven cotton sarees such as Tant, Jamdani, or Handloom sarees.
These sarees are known for their breathable fabric and intricate designs.
Go for vibrant colors like mustard yellow, royal blue, or pastel hues to make a style statement.
- Blouse Pairing:
You can opt for printed blouses, quirky patterns, or embroidered designs to contrast with the simplicity of the cotton saree.
If you want to experiment, go for a printed blouse with geometric patterns or stripes.
- Accessorize:
Silver or oxidized jewelry pairs beautifully with cotton sarees.
A stack of silver bangles, oxidized jhumkas, and a long pendant necklace will add a boho-chic vibe to your look.
Pair this with a casual sling bag or jute tote to complete the ensemble.
Trendy Twist:
Drape your saree in an unconventional way, such as the pant-style drape, where you wear leggings or palazzos under the saree for a fusion look.
You can also use a thin belt to cinch your waist, giving the saree a more structured appearance.
3. Fusion Kurtas and Palazzo Sets for a Modern Touch
For those who prefer a blend of tradition and modernity, fusion kurtas paired with palazzo pants or dhoti pants offer a stylish yet comfortable outfit.
Ideal for casual evening events or when you want to keep it light and breezy, these ensembles allow for plenty of movement.
How to Style:
- The Kurta:
Choose a fusion kurta in fabrics like silk, chiffon, or georgette.
Asymmetrical hems, high-low styles, and cape sleeves are trendy options that add flair to your outfit.
Pastel colors like mint green, lavender, and blush pink are currently in vogue, but you can also opt for bolder colors like deep maroon or teal.
- Palazzo or Dhoti Pants:
Pair the kurta with wide-legged palazzos or go for dhoti pants if you want a more Indo-Western vibe.
These pants offer comfort while adding an elegant flow to your movement.
- Accessorize:
Keep the jewelry minimalist but impactful. Opt for a statement pair of earrings, like chandbalis or large hoops, and pair with simple rings or bracelets.
Add a sleek clutch to enhance the look.
Trendy Twist:
Elevate this look with an embroidered jacket or a long, flowy shrug over your kurta-palazzo set.
You can also experiment with footwear by opting for embroidered juttis or stylish block heels.
4. Lehenga-Choli for Festive Evenings
For those grand evening events, nothing beats the elegance of a lehenga-choli.
This ensemble is perfect for Saptami or Navami nights when everyone is dressed to impress, and you want to exude both glamour and tradition.
How to Style:
- The Lehenga:
Opt for a lehenga in rich fabrics like silk, velvet, or brocade with intricate embroidery, zari work, or mirror embellishments.
Choose vibrant jewel tones such as emerald green, ruby red, or midnight blue for a regal look.
- The Choli:
Pair your lehenga with a fitted choli that complements the skirt.
You can go for traditional full-sleeved blouses or try more modern designs like off-shoulder, cape-style, or even backless cholis for a trendier look.
- Accessorize:
Heavy kundan or polki jewelry, including a statement maang tikka, will perfectly complement this look.
Don’t forget to carry a matching potli bag to complete the ensemble.
Trendy Twist:
For a modern spin, consider wearing a lehenga with a sequined or crop top-style blouse.
You can also add an ethnic jacket or a sheer cape to give your lehenga-choli an updated and fashion-forward look.
5. Anarkali Suits for a Timeless Appeal
An Anarkali suit is the epitome of grace and can be worn for family gatherings or evening pujas.
The flared silhouette of the Anarkali creates a royal, floor-length gown effect, perfect for a grand celebration like Durga Puja.
How to Style:
- The Anarkali:
Choose an Anarkali with intricate embroidery, zari work, or mirror embellishments for a festive look.
Colors like wine, emerald green, or maroon give a rich, regal appearance.
- The Dupatta:
Pair your Anarkali with a contrasting dupatta in silk or organza for an added touch of elegance.
A dupatta with golden borders or light embellishments can elevate the overall look.
- Accessorize:
Statement jhumkas, chandelier earrings, or a choker necklace will enhance the beauty of the Anarkali suit.
A sleek bun or soft curls will perfectly complement this elegant outfit.
Trendy Twist:
Opt for an Anarkali with a cape instead of a traditional dupatta, or try a jacket-style Anarkali for a more contemporary look.
You can also experiment with prints and pastel colors to give this classic silhouette a modern twist.
6. Handloom Sarees for a Sustainable Statement
Durga Puja is the perfect time to celebrate India’s rich textile heritage by wearing handloom sarees.
These sarees are not only environmentally sustainable but also timeless and versatile, making them a go-to choice for anyone looking to combine tradition with consciousness.
How to Style:
- The Saree:
Choose a handloom saree like Tussar, Chanderi, or Khadi, which comes with a rich history and intricate craftsmanship.
Opt for earthy tones like beige, rust, or olive green, or go for jewel tones like deep red or royal blue.
- Blouse Pairing:
A plain handloom saree can be paired with an elaborately embroidered or hand-painted blouse.
Experiment with different necklines like halter, high-neck, or boat neck to modernize the look.
- Accessorize:
Stick to natural, handcrafted jewelry, such as terracotta or brass, for a raw, authentic look.
A nose ring and bangles will add a touch of tradition, while a potli bag or a small clutch will complete the outfit.
Trendy Twist:
For a contemporary twist, you can style your handloom saree with a belt or wear it over a shirt-style blouse for a fusion look.
You can also wear the saree in the pant-style drape for a more structured and fashionable take on traditional handloom.
7. Indo-Western Dhoti Pants and Crop Tops
If you want a more modern, experimental look this Durga Puja, Indo-Western dhoti pants paired with crop tops or kurtis are perfect.
This outfit is stylish, comfortable, and ideal for both casual and semi-formal events during the festival.
How to Style:
- The Outfit:
Opt for silk or satin dhoti pants paired with a heavily embroidered crop top or an asymmetric kurta.
Bright colors like fuchsia, teal, or gold will add festive charm to your look.
- Accessorize:
Go bold with chunky statement earrings or layered necklaces.
Pair the outfit with metallic heels or juttis for a stylish finish.
- Hair and Makeup:
Keep your hair sleek with a high ponytail or a top bun.
Go for a bold lip color and defined eyes to add drama to your Indo-Western look.
Trendy Twist:
You can swap the crop top for a jacket-style blouse or layer it with an embroidered ethnic shrug.
Adding a belt or wearing statement kamarbands (waist chains) can also give your Indo-Western outfit a trendy yet festive vibe.
8. Statement Benarasi Dupatta with Simple Kurtis
If you prefer minimalism but still want to look festive, pairing a Benarasi dupatta with a simple kurti and churidar is the perfect way to incorporate luxury into an otherwise modest outfit.
How to Style:
- The Dupatta:
A heavily embroidered Benarasi silk dupatta in vibrant colors like magenta, emerald green, or royal blue can be paired with plain kurtis in neutral tones like beige, white, or light pink.
- The Kurti:
Opt for a simple, well-fitted kurti in a solid color to let the Benarasi dupatta take center stage.
Add churidar pants or cigarette pants for a more structured look.
- Accessorize:
A pair of bold jhumkas, a stack of bangles, and a statement ring will perfectly complement the outfit.
Complete the look with traditional footwear like mojris.
Trendy Twist:
Drape the Benarasi dupatta in a unique way—such as wrapping it around your shoulders like a shawl or pinning it at the waist to create a belted saree effect.
9. Saree Gowns for a Contemporary Look
If you want to stand out in a crowd, a saree gown is the perfect fusion of tradition and modernity.
It offers the elegance of a saree with the ease and simplicity of a gown, making it perfect for grand evening celebrations.
How to Style:
- The Saree Gown:
Choose a pre-stitched saree gown in rich fabrics like velvet, silk, or chiffon.
Go for trendy colors like metallics, silver, or deep reds with embellishments such as sequins or beads.
- Accessorize:
Statement earrings, a cuff bracelet, and a sleek clutch will complete your contemporary saree gown look.
Pair it with high heels to create a streamlined silhouette.
- Makeup:
Go for bold makeup with smoky eyes and a deep lip color to match the drama of the saree gown.
Trendy Twist:
For an edgier look, opt for a saree gown with cut-out designs or thigh-high slits.
You can also experiment with metallic shades or glittery fabrics to make a bold statement.
10. Punjabi Suits with a Modern Touch
The Punjabi suit is a timeless and versatile outfit that can be worn during Durga Puja.
For those who prefer something more traditional yet comfortable, a Punjabi suit with modern cuts and embroidery can be a great choice.
How to Style:
- The Suit:
Choose a heavily embroidered Phulkari or Gota Patti suit in rich colors like deep red, emerald, or gold.
The embroidery adds festive charm, while the flowing Patiala or churidar bottoms offer comfort.
- The Dupatta:
Pair your suit with a contrasting, embroidered dupatta that adds flair to the ensemble.
- Accessorize:
Go for jhumkas, a maang tikka, and a statement ring to enhance the traditional vibe.
Pair the look with embroidered juttis or Punjabi mojris.
Trendy Twist:
For a modern twist, opt for a shorter kurti paired with cigarette pants instead of the traditional Patiala or churidar bottoms.
You can also swap out the dupatta for a cape or a long jacket for a more contemporary feel.
11. Traditional Dhoti-Saree for a Unique Style Statement
For those who love traditional drapes with a unique twist, the dhoti-saree is a must-try.
This style fuses the elegance of a saree with the comfort of a dhoti, making it perfect for a statement look during Durga Puja.
How to Style:
- The Saree:
Choose a lightweight fabric like silk, cotton, or georgette for easy draping.
Bold colors or traditional patterns like Benarasi or Kanjeevaram work beautifully for a dhoti-saree drape.
- Blouse Pairing:
Pair your saree with a bold crop top or an off-shoulder blouse for a modern take on tradition.
You can also go for a heavily embroidered or sequined blouse to add some extra sparkle.
- Accessorize:
Kundan jewelry, a bold belt around the waist, and a stylish clutch will perfectly complement this look.
Don’t forget to wear high heels to enhance the drape.
Trendy Twist:
Add a structured jacket or a statement belt to your dhoti-saree for a fusion look.
You can also experiment with pre-stitched dhoti-sarees available in the market for a more contemporary take on this traditional style.
12. Silk Skirts with Crop Tops for a Fusion Look
Silk skirts paired with crop tops are a fusion outfit that perfectly balances modernity and tradition.
This look is easy to wear, comfortable, and perfect for evening functions during Durga Puja.
How to Style:
- The Skirt:
Opt for a heavy silk skirt with traditional motifs like paisleys, florals, or geometric patterns.
Rich colors like wine, royal blue, or mustard yellow work best for festive occasions.
- The Crop Top:
Pair your skirt with a crop top in contrasting colors or with intricate embroidery.
Off-shoulder, one-shoulder, or halter-neck designs add a modern twist to the traditional outfit.
- Accessorize:
Complete the look with a statement choker or layered necklaces.
A matching potli bag and traditional heels will add the finishing touches.
Trendy Twist:
For a more modern take, you can pair the skirt with a structured blouse or jacket, or even go for a sequined or velvet crop top to elevate the look.
13. Benarasi Lehenga with Cape for a Royal Look
Lehengas are an all-time favorite for festive celebrations, and a Benarasi lehenga paired with a cape-style blouse gives you an ultra-glam look with traditional roots.
The richness of the Benarasi fabric combined with the modern silhouette of the cape creates a regal appearance.
How to Style:
- The Lehenga:
Go for a Benarasi lehenga in jewel tones like emerald green, ruby red, or midnight blue, adorned with zari work or intricate embroidery.
- The Cape:
Instead of a dupatta, opt for a cape-style blouse that adds drama and sophistication to your outfit.
You can choose a sheer, embellished cape for a trendy finish.
- Accessorize:
Go for heavy kundan or polki jewelry, such as a statement maang tikka, chandelier earrings, and a matching necklace.
Pair it with a metallic clutch and embellished sandals for a complete royal look.
Trendy Twist:
For an edgy vibe, try a metallic or fringed cape instead of a traditional one.
You can also experiment with asymmetrical hems and cut-out designs to make your look stand out.
14. Gharara Suits for a Regal Appeal
Gharara suits have made a strong comeback and are perfect for adding a touch of royalty to your Durga Puja wardrobe.
The flared bottoms combined with the fitted kurti create a stunning silhouette that is both comfortable and fashionable.
How to Style:
- The Gharara:
Opt for a gharara suit in silk or velvet with intricate zari or threadwork.
Choose bold colors like maroon, emerald, or gold to enhance the regal feel.
- The Kurti:
Pair the gharara with a fitted kurti in a complementary color.
A short kurti works best to show off the flared gharara pants.
- Accessorize:
Add traditional polki or pearl jewelry to complement the richness of the outfit.
Complete the look with jhumkas, bangles, and a matching clutch.
Trendy Twist:
For a more modern look, you can opt for a cape-style kurti or pair the gharara with a crop top or jacket for a fusion vibe.
You can also experiment with layering for a more dramatic effect.
15. Modern Printed Sarees with Belt and Sneakers
If you love the idea of mixing tradition with ultra-modern elements, try a printed saree paired with a belt and sneakers for a laid-back yet trendy look.
This fusion outfit is perfect for pandal hopping or casual Durga Puja events.
How to Style:
- The Saree:
Opt for a light, printed saree in fabrics like chiffon, georgette, or crepe.
Look for fun, quirky prints like florals, geometric shapes, or even abstract art.
- The Belt:
Cinch your saree at the waist with a statement belt for a structured, fashion-forward look.
- Sneakers:
Pair your saree with trendy white sneakers or metallic slip-ons for an effortlessly cool vibe.
- Accessorize:
Keep your accessories minimal with stud earrings, a watch, or simple bracelets to maintain the casual feel of the outfit.
Trendy Twist:
For a more glam look, pair your printed saree with a crop top or bralette instead of a traditional blouse.
You can also add a statement belt in metallic or embellished designs for extra sparkle.
Takeaway
Durga Puja is the perfect time to experiment with a blend of traditional and modern fashion.
Whether you want to go all out with a lehenga-choli or keep it casual yet trendy with Indo-Western outfits, the options are endless.
These 15 traditional and trendy styles will ensure that you stand out at every Durga Puja event, from morning Anjali to late-night pandal hopping.
Embrace the festival spirit with outfits that celebrate both your heritage and contemporary fashion, and make this Durga Puja your most stylish one yet!
