Tie-dye is festival wear in much of western India. Its bright dots and waves are part of how Gujarat and Rajasthan celebrate, and the same pieces work beautifully for festive days everywhere.
Navratri: made for garba
Navratri nights of garba and dandiya are made for flared, colourful outfits. Bandhani lehengas and chaniya cholis, often with mirror work, are a classic choice: the flare moves with the dance and the dots catch the light. Choose a skirt you can turn in and footwear you can dance in for hours.
For garba nights
Teej and the monsoon: Leheriya
In Rajasthan, Leheriya is closely associated with Teej and the monsoon. Its diagonal waves are traditionally worn in greens, pinks and yellows, colours of the season.
Karva Chauth, weddings and Diwali
Red and maroon Bandhani, often with gold zari, is a traditional choice for married women’s festivals and for weddings in Gujarat and Rajasthan, where the gharchola, a red-and-white tie-dye with a zari grid, is worn by brides. For Karva Chauth or Diwali, a red Bandhani saree or dupatta with gold jewellery is a look that never goes out of season.
Red and festive
Wearing tie-dye now
Let the tie-dye lead and keep the rest simple: a Bandhani dupatta over a plain kurta, or a Bandhani saree with a solid blouse. Silver oxidised jewellery suits cotton tie-dye for the day; gold suits silk and georgette for the evening.
Questions, answered
What should I wear for Navratri garba?
A flared lehenga or chaniya choli you can dance in, often in Bandhani with mirror work, and comfortable footwear for hours of garba.
When is Leheriya worn?
In Rajasthan, Leheriya is traditionally worn for Teej and through the monsoon, in greens, pinks and yellows.
