Colours to wear for Karva Chauth beyond red

Karva Chauth is often associated with red outfits, elaborate suits, and traditional bridal wear. And for those celebrating the festival, dressing up can be an exciting part of the day. However, red does not have to be the default choice as we have been made to believe over the years, thanks to the countless Bollywood Karva Chauth scenes. With plenty of colours, silhouettes, and styles to explore, there are several ways to put together an outfit that feels festive and also reflects your personal style.

Whether you enjoy dressing up in traditional Indian wear or prefer something a little more contemporary, your Karva Chauth outfit can be as understated or elaborate as you like. Think rich jewel tones, soft pastels, intricate embroidery, and statement accessories that bring the look together. From outfits you can wear again to pieces worth investing in, here are a few options to consider for the occasion, that can look as festive as red: 

A green or rani pink saree

A saree is a great choice for brides who want a traditional look without reaching for red. Colours such as emerald green and rani pink work well for an evening celebration. You could opt for a silk saree with a contrasting blouse, an embroidered drape, or a lightweight tissue saree for a more contemporary finish. Complete the look with gold jewellery, bangles and a small bindi.

A royal blue salwar suit

A well-fitted salwar suit is comfortable enough to wear through the day and easy to style for the evening. Look for silk, brocade, or georgette sets with delicate embroidery, mirror work, or zari detailing. Shades such as royal blue, mustard, teal, and deep pink are worth considering. Pair your suit with juttis, jhumkas, and a dupatta draped neatly over one shoulder.

A plum anarkali set

An anarkali suit brings a little drama to the outfit through its flared silhouette, making it a lovely option for the evening pooja or dinner. Choose one in a rich shade such as plum, bottle green, or midnight blue, with embroidery around the neckline and hem. Keep the jewellery traditional with chaandbaalis or jhumkas, and finish with embellished heels or mojaris.

A turquoise or gold sharara set

For women who enjoy a little extra volume, a sharara set is worth considering. The flared trousers, short kurta, and dupatta make for a festive combination that feels different from a regular salwar suit. Choose a set with gota patti, sequin work, or intricate thread embroidery. A champagne gold, lilac, turquoise, or rust-coloured ensemble can look particularly striking with statement earrings and bangles.

A yellow lehenga

Your wedding wardrobe might already have the perfect outfit for Karva Chauth. The yellow lehenga you wore for your haldi ceremony can be styled differently with a new blouse, a contrasting dupatta, or a different set of jewellery. If you are buying a new one, consider a lighter lehenga in shades of pinks or pastels that you can wear for future festive occasions. 

Metallic Indo-fusion co-ords

For brides who prefer contemporary dressing, Indo-fusion co-ord sets offer a fresh alternative. Think embroidered jackets paired with trousers, a kurta with wide-leg pants, or a draped top with a skirt. Look for details such as metallic shades, interesting sleeves, and subtle embellishments. Add statement earrings, a sleek hairstyle, and heels to make the ensemble feel occasion-ready.

Lead image: Katrina Kaif/Instagram

Inside images: The brands

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