This Navratri, here’s how you can accessorise to mesmerise

Navratri is more than just a festival it is a whirlwind of 360degree fashion rhythmic movement and cultural vibrance In 2026 festive fashion has evolved into a blend of heritage and modern maximalism where tradition meets tech and stability meets styleWhether you are hosting a traditional chowki visiting friends for a festive meal or attending a serene aarti the way you accessorize tells a story of devotion and personal style To help you navigate this period wersquove gathered exclusive insights from fashion experts Here is how to transform your festive wardrobe into a masterpiece of light even if your feet never leave the groundThe 360degree philosophyAccording to Paridhi Patodia and Shrishti Agarwal founders of the artisanal label Parishri the magic of Navratri styling lies in the unexpected While many focus solely on the neckline Patodia argues that because you are constantly moving and spinning your outfit must work from every perspectiveMost people focus only on earrings or a necklace but the real magic often comes from the accessories that people donrsquot think about she explainsTo achieve a truly complete look the duo recommends these six essential additions1 The KamarbandA goldplated kamarband waist belt adds immediate structure Even the simplest ghagra or sari is transformed into a styled festive ensemble once the waist is defined2 PayalIn a festival defined by footwork payal anklets are essential A delicate goldplated payal adds a subtle elegance that highlights your movement on the dance floor3 Back jewelleryWith many modern cholis featuring deepcut backs this negative space is a canvas A goldplated back chain or pendant falling along the spine ensures you look striking even when your back is turned to the crowd4 HaathphoolA haathphool highlights their grace and adds richness without the cumbersome weight of heavy bangles5 Baju bandhFor those wearing sleeveless or shortsleeved blouses the baju bandh armlets offers a regal traditional frame for the arms6 Hair accessoriesDont neglect the crowning glory Woven goldplated chains or pins in a braid pull the entire look together making it feel curated rather than accidentalThe 2026 trend modern maximalismAs we move through 2026 the trend of lsquoModern Maximalismrsquo is taking centre stage Rushin Jhaveri cofounder of Modera explains that this involves bold layered styling with a contemporary edge We are seeing a shift where traditional lehengas are elevated by metallic belts and geometric chainsrdquo Interestingly technology is also finding a place in our jewellery boxes ldquoTechintegrated accessoriesmdashpieces that can hold digital memories or connect to personal storiesmdashare emerging bringing a modern dimension to the festival while respecting its cultural spiritrdquo he adds This manifests in digital heirloomsmdashsculptural pieces embedded with nearfield tech that link to personal memories or microLED fibres woven into traditional threadwork to mimic the soft glow of a festive lampBuilding the Navratri capsule accessory kitIf you are starting from scratch Jhaveri suggests focusing on versatility You dont need a hundred pieces you need the right five Here are his essentials for transitioning through nine nights1 Statement jhumkas These anchor the look Their sculptural movement frames the face and pairs effortlessly with both lehengas and fusion wear2 The choker necklace Highly adaptable for any neckline Look for kundan polki or enamel detailing for richness3 Stackable bangles Mix textures like mirrorwork and oxidised finishes to add sound sparkle and energy to your dance4 Statement maang tikka A piece that is neither too minimal nor too bridal can instantly elevate a simple ghagracholi5The kamarband Beyond aesthetics it secures your dupatta allowing you to move freelyThe art of the mix Rules for layeringHow do you mix gold oxidised silver resham threadwork and mirrorwork without looking cluttered Patodia and Agarwal offer a simple golden rule Balance1 The anchor piece Choose one statement piece like a bold choker and build around it with lighter elements2 Layer for depth Instead of one heavy necklace layer a choker with a longer pendant This adds depth without the physical weight3 Spread the sparkle Donrsquot concentrate all your jewellery around the neck By spreading elements to your waist kamarband and anklets payal the look feels balanced and effortlessHigh stability styleNavratri is as much an athletic event as it is a fashion showcase notes Jhaveri To ensure your jewellery stays on through the day and doesnt cause discomfort he shares these prostability tips1 Weight distribution Choose lighter constructions like hollow or openwork designs to keep pieces from feeling heavy2 The ear chain secret Use ear chains saharas for heavy jhumkas to hook into the hair and distribute weight3 The glue trick Use a tiny drop of eyelash glue to keep your maang tikka centred and secure it with crossed bobby pins4 Stay close Chokers and fitted bangles stay more stable during movement than loose dangling piecesNavratri is a celebration of energy colour and movement Whether you are leaning into the regal warmth of goldplated pieces or experimenting with techintegrated modern maximalism the goal remains the same to enhance your natural energy As our experts suggest when styled thoughtfully even a few wellchosen pieces can transform a simple outfit into a mesmerising festive masterpiece