Bollywood-Inspired Diwali Looks You’ll Love

As Diwali approaches, we are gearing up for one of the most anticipated and joyous celebrations of the year. Known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali brings together family, friends, and an endless amount of festive spirit! And let’s be honest—choosing the perfect Diwali outfit is almost as exciting as the festivities themselves. Inspired by Bollywood’s glam factor, here are some outfit ideas to make sure you’re dressed to impress, whether you're attending a Diwali pooja or a lively party.

1. Glamorous Sarees for an Effortless Traditional Look

When it comes to traditional Indian attire, sarees are undeniably classic and never go out of style. Bollywood stars are known to embrace this elegant garment, and this Diwali, you can channel that same elegance with a saree that exudes style and grace.

• The Silk Saree: Inspired by stars like Deepika Padukone and Alia Bhatt, a silk saree with traditional zari work or a more minimalistic design is perfect for a Diwali pooja. Opt for jewel tones like deep blue, emerald green, or ruby red, and keep the accessories simple—a pair of statement earrings or a delicate maang tikka can complete the look without overpowering it.

• Sequin and Embellished Sarees: For a more glamorous, Bollywood-inspired evening look, an embellished saree can be a fantastic choice. Think of the sequin sarees worn by actresses like Kareena Kapoor or Shilpa Shetty—these add a dazzling touch to any Diwali party. Go for lighter colors like champagne or pastel hues to keep the look elegant yet festive, and style with loose waves or a soft bun.

2. Pretty Lehengas for a Modern yet Traditional Feel

Lehengas are Bollywood favorites, especially for festive occasions, and they offer a beautiful blend of tradition and modern style. For those in the US celebrating Diwali, a lehenga can be dressed up or down depending on the type of event.

• The Classic Red Lehenga: Inspired by Bollywood’s regal looks, a red lehenga is perfect if you want to channel a more traditional vibe. Actresses like Priyanka Chopra and Aishwarya Rai have often chosen red lehengas for important events. Pair a red lehenga with a blouse that has intricate embroidery, and a dupatta with a contrasting border for an extra pop. Keep the jewelry minimal—a pair of gold earrings or bangles will do the trick.

• Pastel and Floral Lehengas: For a contemporary twist, try pastel or floral lehengas inspired by Alia Bhatt’s and Anushka Sharma’s subtle, yet stylish choices. Ideal for a Diwali party, these lighter colors feel fresh and are perfect for a sophisticated yet festive vibe. A pastel lehenga paired with minimal jewelry and soft curls or a sleek ponytail can add that perfect Bollywood touch.

3. Stunning Cape Sets for an Elegant, Western Twist

Cape sets are relatively new to Indian festive fashion, but they’ve quickly gained popularity, especially among Bollywood’s young trendsetters. These three-piece outfits consist of a cape, a blouse, and either a skirt or pants, creating an effortlessly stylish look that blends Western and Indian elements.

• Embellished Cape Sets: For a bold yet refined look, consider a cape set with sequin or mirror work, similar to outfits worn by Sonam Kapoor or Sara Ali Khan. These sets bring all the glam of Bollywood to your Diwali event. Choose a cape set in deep tones like navy blue or black with gold embellishments, and style it with loose waves and statement earrings.

• Minimalist Cape Sets in Jewel Tones: For a sleek and modern look, a minimalist cape set in colors like emerald green, burgundy, or sapphire blue is both trendy and traditional. These jewel tones are perfect for Diwali and add a rich, luxurious feel. Finish the look with a pair of stud earrings and a slick bun or low ponytail.

4. Elegant Anarkalis for a Regal Diwali Look

Anarkalis have been a Bollywood staple for years, offering both comfort and a royal vibe. They’re versatile enough for a Diwali pooja or a party, making them ideal for any Diwali gathering.

• Floor-Length Anarkalis with Embroidery: Inspired by the regal look of actresses like Madhuri Dixit and Vidya Balan, a floor-length Anarkali in colors like maroon, royal blue, or forest green is both traditional and glamorous. Opt for an Anarkali with subtle embroidery or mirror work, and keep the look refined with jhumkas and a low bun.

• Anarkalis with Capes: To add a Bollywood twist, go for an Anarkali with an attached cape. This outfit combines traditional charm with a modern silhouette, perfect for Diwali celebrations in the US. Pair this with soft curls and minimal jewelry for a look that’s both graceful and festive.

5. Accessorizing Your Bollywood-Inspired Diwali Look

The right accessories can elevate your outfit to Bollywood levels of glamour, but balance is key to making sure your look is both stylish and elegant.

• Statement Earrings and Bangles: For Diwali outfits, statement earrings are often enough to create a complete look. Choose bold chandbalis or jhumkas if you’re going for a saree or lehenga. Bangles can be added to complement your outfit, but avoid too much jewelry to keep the look balanced.

• Maang Tikkas and Bindis: If you’re aiming for a more traditional Bollywood-inspired look, consider a maang tikka or a bindi. These small additions can make a big impact, especially if you’re wearing a more ornate outfit like a lehenga or Anarkali. Choose a bindi that complements your outfit color, and keep the maang tikka delicate to avoid an overly heavy look.

• Hair and Makeup Tips: For a traditional look, soft curls or a low bun are great choices, as they allow the focus to remain on your outfit. For makeup, opt for dewy skin, a bold lip, or kohl-rimmed eyes to add that Bollywood flair. A touch of highlighter on your cheekbones can bring extra glow, perfect for Diwali evenings.

No matter where you are in the world, celebrating Diwali in style is about embracing the beauty of your culture and making the day memorable. With these Bollywood-inspired outfit ideas, South Asians in the US can celebrate the Festival of Lights with glamour and grace, honoring tradition while showcasing individual style. Whether you choose a classic saree, a statement lehenga, or a contemporary cape set, remember that the best accessory is your confidence and joy in the celebration!