There’s something undeniably theatrical about dupattas—one flick of chiffon and suddenly you’re in your own Om Shanti Om moment (wind machine optional). Dupattas has long played understudy to the lehenga or kurta, but this festive season, it’s high time we gave this unstitched starlet its main character moment. Bollywood, of course, has done the most PR for it—“Hawa mein udta jaye…”
Even before the global fashion landscape was obsessed with the Scandi-girl scarf and “elevated layering”, here we’ve always known the power of this unstitched rectangle. We’ve hidden behind it, clutched it in school ceremonies, draped it over dolls. It can shift the tone of an entire look—ceremonial, subversive, camouflaging or simply saving a look that didn’t quite work out.
Whether it’s a featherlight handloom Chanderi, a weighty Kanchipuram zari or something dipped in more chamki than the midnight sky, this festive season, we’ve got you covered.
Banarasi weave
Heavy with heritage, Banarasi’s dense zari and silk brocade offers a luxurious fall that’s best reserved for evening occasions or ceremonies. Best to drape with precision; no sloppy folds. Pair this with a tissue salwar set or across a lehenga; this regal number offers range.
Chanderi weave
Lightweight silk-cotton with a crisp finish that holds shape without stiffness. Ideal for daytime events where neatness counts. Best worn folded sharply across the shoulders or pinned vertically for a tailored look. Chanderi does have an airy yet luxurious feel, it pairs well with a sleeveless kurti set and contemporary, minimal jewellery.
Bandhani
Soft georgette or cotton with circular tie-dye patterns that make the eye dance. Easy to drape, a bandhani is perfect for casual daywear or a stroll through festive markets. Toss over one shoulder or loosely around the neck. Pair with a classic backless choli or with a slip top and denims to keep the effortless vibe intact.
Floral bloom
Painted or printed, these delicate florals blooming across organza, cotton and silk are a soft, romantic pick for daytime festivities. Don one with a white mul angrakha when you head to get your mehendi done with the girls.
Indian woven rainbow (Bhujodi and kala cotton)
Cotton handlooms with a lively textural weave, natural fabrics and dyes. These materials tend to be of a heavier weave but perfect for daywear. They pair well with jeans, kurta sets or even a dress—ideal for introducing a pop of colour for a laid-back look.
Shibori
Typically on silk or modal, this airy fabric features jewel-toned, patterned prints from traditional clamp-dye techniques. Has a silky scarf-like feel, perfect for layering. Wrap across to elevate a co-ord set or knot it to your bag for a fresh twist on tradition.
Ajrakh
Typically in deep indigos, blacks and earthy reds, ajrakh on modal or cotton delivers moodier prints. Pairs exceptionally well with darker lehengas or sequined separates for an impactful look. Pair with silver or diamond chandbalis and head out for an evening Diwali party.
Organza
Sheer silk with a subtle stiffness, offering a floaty yet structured fall. Works well for evening wear where you want lightness without losing form. Organza can sponge a heavier outfit and balance it well, use it to soften a richly detailed outfit without losing balance.
Linen
India, even in late October, tends to get hot, so linen dupattas in muted hues can be just the respite you need from heavier sets. Paired with linen trousers and a shirt or with a kurti set, it helps you feel fresh, natural and luxurious.
Velvet & shine
Velvet, zardozi and jewel tones come together when you’re dressing for sparkle under the stars. Mirror the richness with a velvet or tissue sharara set with an embellished potli and juttis. When leaning into richer textures, these are your go-tos.
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South Indian silks
Kanchipuram silk dupattas bring serious gravitas with their gold-threaded motifs and rich colour palettes. Often ignored as a weave in dupattas, they have a more structured fall, drape one over a silk lehenga or across a half sari. Pair with antique temple jewellery to complete the look.
Delicate detailing
Net, tulle and ultra-fine laces with embroidered accents, scalloped hems or lace insets. Delicate details that would make your grandma happy. Best layered over tone-on-tone sets or light silks for afternoon events. Pair with a pastel slip dress for a twist and accessorise with pearls and a delicate clutch to complete the look.
Shimmer
The OG pataka piece. Sequins, shisha and a whole lot of shimmer—these are dupattas that love the limelight. Drape as a veil or shawl to add drama to even the most basic outfit.
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Also read:
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