Spirit of Navratri shines in Mumbai despite the lingering monsoon

The weather gods are playing spoilsport again with heavy showers predicted for most of this week mdash a week full of music dance and revelry for most Mumbaikars Even as organisers scurry to hoist domes lay down antiskid carpets and restructure their pandals to minimise mishaps attendees are rethinking their outfit choices to stay comfortable stylish and dry From lighter fabrics to sensible shoes we spoke to four enthusiasts about how theyrsquore decking up to danceLight and bright minus the fussToral Mazmudar 32 GamdeviToral Mazmudar will optfor comfort this seasonWith the rains being so unpredictable this year Irsquom choosing comfort with a festive twist For me this translates into breathable quickdry fabrics such as georgette and instead of heavy silks or velvets since they donrsquot weigh me down if therersquos a drizzle I also prefer lighter lehenga skirts with shorter hemlines to avoid splashes paired with chic crop tops or cholis that can later be styled with denims or palazzos Prestitched or smaller dupattas work best while dancing and Irsquom skipping white or very light colours so stains donrsquot show mdash vibrant jewel tones feel more festiveFootwear with rubber soles is a must for slippery grounds If yoursquore opting for IndoWestern attire sneakers can be a fun and practical choice Irsquom also keeping jewellery minimal trying out fusionwear versions and adding a festive touch with nail art inspired by Bandhani or mirrorwork Phones in cute traditional slings complete the look mdash trendy and fussfreeTradition with a twistNeha K Kanbar 44 JuhuNeha Kanbar recommends keeping it light and practicalOne of the easiest ways to trim bulk from your garba outfit is to swap heavy lehengas for dhoti pants I am partial to the IndoWestern fusion look and anklelength coord sets ensure that therersquos no puddle drama Additionally Irsquom skipping juttis and leather sandals for waterproof flats sneakers or even chic boots Makeup is simple with waterproof kajal liner mascara and liquid lipstick that can withstand the rain and heavy humidity For jewellery Irsquom picking lightweight statement earrings or bangles over heavy chokers so that I donrsquot chafe my skinA brighter colour story for the seasonSnehalata Jain 42 VashiWhen the weather is so grey and gloomy I prefer an updated colour story with light pastels and cheery colours in breathable natural fabrics Most of the venues I visit are indoors so Irsquom not overly concerned about dampness But with the high humidity staying comfortable is especially important Irsquom also cutting down excess bulk with sheer dupattas in organza over long mirrored ones and threadwork over sequins and heavy embroidery However I will spend a few evenings at outdoor locations mdash on these days I will opt out of lehengas and wear jeans with a plain black crop top letting an ornate dupatta or cape take centre stageSimple but unexpectedJainam Vora 31 MaladJainam Vora prefers a blend of sleek kurtas and dhoti pantsThis Navratri I wanted my festive style to be a perfect balance of tradition and modern aesthetics I went all out with traditional kurtas and statement jewellery that reflect the essence of the festival but to give it a unique twist I paired them with sneakers that I designed myself I created DIY styles by adding borders and different materials to the sneakers giving them a festive yet contemporary vibe Sleeker kurta cuts over voluminous kediyu and sharp dhoti pants are another combination Irsquom partial to To keep the look more modern Irsquom opting for largely monochromatic fits with pops of bright colour