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Traditional upgrade alert: 5 contemporary ethnic styles for the festive season

TOI Lifestyle Desk
| etimes.in | Last updated on - Aug 27, 2025, 22:51 IST
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1/6

Swap the saree 101 for these fusion picks!

Dressing for the festive season is one of those activities that gets every woman all excited and riled up at the same time. While the idea of arriving at festive gatherings is a chance to create a statement, the pressure to absolutely nail it can make you feel overwhelmed. This is especially true for the Gen Z crowd, who are still in the process of defining their personal style. Balancing modernity with core traditional aesthetics, draping a simple saree or slipping into an age-old anarkali is no longer the go-to choice. So, let’s put together a stunning line-up of contemporary ethnic outfits that scream iconic, aren’t a century old, and are far from basic.
2/6

Short kurti with gharara or lehenga skirt

Short kurtis are one of the things Gen Z is obsessed with. As they are back with a bang and are available with a corset-fitted bodice, you can uplift this retro beat with a stunning lehenga or flared gharara skirt that will surely be tipping in favour of grandeur. These flared ghararas and lehengas have been all the rage for quite some time. Team them with sleeveless short kurtis and throw in a stylish cape or matching dupatta, which will be an instant hit.


(Image Credits: Pinterest)

3/6

Corset with draped full-length skirt

Every Gen Z is utterly obsessed with corsets. From corset gowns to blouse designs, we can see the cinched waistline detailing in full-length suits and ethnic sets, which neatly accentuates one’s curves, creating a lean illusion. Therefore, have a taste of something new and opt for a stunning full-length corset top, and drape it with a pleated skirt. This combination is great for the festive run and ticks all the boxes of being youthful, sophisticated, and modern traditionalist.
(Image Credits: Pinterest)

4/6

Concept sarees are the ultimate thing

Gone are the days of draping six yards of drape with a matching blouse in the usual way. Gen Z always prefers to keep things fast yet statement-worthy, and these pre-draped concept sarees can be your ultimate muse. Opt for pre-draped Banarasi sarees with a sleek pallu show, which accentuates your curves and also showcases the embroidery and detailing of your blouse. You can also opt for frill-style layered concept sarees that come with a sense of ease and comfort, making them every Gen Z’s favourite.
(Image Credits: Pinterest)

5/6

Enjoy the aura of lehenga sarees

Bollywood’s ‘Sundari’, Janhvi Kapoor, has made the half-saree trend go viral in the Northern states. Known as Pavadai Dhavani, Langa Voni, and Langa Dhavani in Southern states, this South Indian half saree mainly features a lehenga skirt with a matching choli and a dupatta that is styled like a saree’s pallu. Often drenched in bright shades with statement golden borders, you can now opt for a colourful palette with floral motifs that will look perfect for the festive season.
(Image Credits: Pinterest)

6/6

Traditional jumpsuits for the run

Traditional jumpsuits may sound odd, but they are a current rage amongst the Bollywood celebrities. Opt for a flattering traditional silhouette with a sharp V-neckline and flared bottom detailing that guarantees ease of movement. Combining the East and West's luxury with comfort, ethnic jumpsuits can easily be worn at weddings, festivities, and other celebrations, offering you the best of both worlds.
(Image Credits: Pinterest)

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Copyright © Jun 7, 2026, 11.51AM IST Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd. All rights reserved. For reprint rights: Times Syndication Service