Off-beat haldi colour palettes that prove yellow isn’t the only option

For years, the haldi ceremony has been synonymous with marigold yellows, turmeric drapes, and the bride dressed in sunshine hues. But 2025 brides are rewriting the rules. From pastels to bold contrasts, the haldi is no longer confined to one shade. These off-beat colour palettes are redefining the ceremony, keeping the spirit intact, but with a modern, Instagram-worthy twist.

Coral charm

Move over marigold, coral is having its haldi moment. This warm yet playful hue sits beautifully against outdoor daytime setups, especially when paired with ivory accents. Think bridesmaids in breezy coral lehengas, floral jewellery in peach and pink tones, and décor with bougainvillaea blooms.

Papa Don't Preach Alia Bhatt Sparkle Me Fun Ivory Embellished Lehenga Set, ₹219,500

Papa Don’t Preach by Shubhika does vibrant coral lehengas with a playful edge

Mint fresh

For brides who prefer cool tones, mint brings a refreshing new vibe to haldi celebrations. Perfect for summer weddings, mint sarees, lehengas, or shararas look crisp against traditional haldi haloes. Add pastel seating, green cocktails, and white-gold accessories to complete the look.

Vinita Bhansali Green Pure Crepe Zardosi Embroidered Cape Lehenga Set, ₹67,000

This cape lehenga set from the label Vinita Bhansali crafted in pure crepe zardosi with hand embroidery makes for the perfect fit for a summer haldi ceremony.

Lilac love

Soft, whimsical, and completely on-trend, lilac is a shade that flatters every skin tone and feels dreamy for pre-wedding functions. Picture a lilac kurta set for the groom’s squad, floral installations in purple orchids, and brides balancing it out with silver or mirrorwork details.

Ridhi Mehra Lilac Organza Embroidered Lehenga Set, ₹143,800

Ridhi Mehra’s pastel lehengas nail the lilac brief and is just the place to shop from if its the colour your after.

Sunset blend

Why stick to one colour when you can have a gradient? Ombre palettes in shades of peach, pink, and orange look magical in haldi décor—from draped fabric ceilings to multicoloured seating. Bonus: the photos come alive under natural light.

Devnaagri Fuchsia Pink Organza Dori Embroidered Ombre Saree Set, ₹56,000

Devnaagri’s hand-dyed ombre saris and Genda Phool’s floral installations add depth and vibrancy to this palette.

White and gold luxe

Minimalists, rejoice. A white-and-gold Haldi exudes sophistication without overpowering the ceremony’s cultural essence. Think white chikankari outfits, gold kaliras, brass décor accents, and delicate gajras.

Nikhil Thampi White Volvo Beaded Draped Sari with Bustier, ₹61,600

This stunning outfit by Nikhil Thampi is an intricate, modern piece featuring a strapless tie-up bustier blouse and a volvo-draped saree, with delicate hand-done bead detailing for a refined sheen.

Multi-pastel medley

Can’t pick one? Go for a pastel rainbow—pistachio green cushions, blush pink dupattas, powder blue signage, and lavender garlands. Bridesmaids can coordinate in different pastel shades, while the bride wears a statement monotone look.

House of Masaba The Gulaab Cham Cham Lehenga, ₹600,000

Masaba Gupta’s pastel-hued lehenga sets paired with artisanal sweets create a perfect Instagram-ready haldi vibe.

Your haldi doesn’t have to be painted only in turmeric yellow. Whether you lean towards coral warmth, mint freshness, or lilac whimsy, experimenting with colour palettes lets your personality shine through. After all, the best weddings are the ones that feel unapologetically you.

Lead image: Alanna Panday/Instagram

Also read: Ten years on, Punit Balana reflects on craft, colour, and the brides of 2025

Also read: The ultimate guide to planning bridesmaid outfits for an Indian wedding