Holi - the festival of Colors; the bringing in of the new; the arrival of spring and the celebration of good over evil. Holi is probably the one Indian festival that is the most loved and the most celebrated. Holi was traditionally the festival where there were no barriers - caste wise or sexually. People rush out into the streets and pump colored water over each other. Throw water balloons on passersby - even strangers. Everything is forgiven. It's a happy day filled with joy and merriment. So what do you to wear to an occasion like this? True it is a celebration to paint yourself in the colors of joy but what would be the appropriate dressing for the celebration?


Women have to worry about several things while dressing up for the festival of Holi. Remember you are going to be splattered with color. Most colors are cheaply made and are purchased off the road. They are high in chemicals. While you cannot control who throws color over you, you can control your choice of attire. If you are going out to play Holi or if you are generally planning to move about on the day of Holi, I suggest you invest in a chiffon sari and preferably one that is not too expensive. If you are willing to discard the sari after use then simply choose a plain color. If on the other hand, you are planning to re use the sari, pick out one which has some kind of abstract print on it. The risk lies in the fact that you will also get splattered with plenty of water. Chiffon tends to get transparent under water. So beware of this. Wear a thick blouse so that you conceal everything that needs to be concealed. No matter what you do, you probably will end up bearing your midriff so take great care of your sari choice.

A salwar kameez is probably your best clothing option. Once again, I suggest you choose chiffon or nylon. They dry up quickly and are easy to take the color off. In addition to that, they also come with a dupatta. You simply drape your dupatta over your upper body to prevent any wardrobe malfunctions. Never select light colors. They stand the risk of getting transparent more easily. Instead choose dark colors. Dark does not necessarily mean dull. Stay away from light shades and pastels but colors like bright blues, purples, deep greens or a combination of colors is ideal for playing Holi.

If you are heading out only to witness the fun or for a 'Holi' party, dress yourself up in a sari. Remember though that you may stand the risk of spoiling your dress. Dress up according to the theme of your party. Most importantly remember to have fun and partake in the enthusiastic spirit of the festival.


So enjoy This Holi in colorful saris and have fun.


Best regards,

Aaron Wilson
Fashion Designer at www.bride-pride.com