Velvet kaftans, tasselled parandis, dhoti-style ease: Lohri fits for peak festive feels

Lohri nights call for dhol beats, bonfire warmth and unabashed festivity. As families gather with rewari and popcorn, singing Sundar Mundriye Hoye, richly textured, winter-ready silhouettes – steeped in traditional detailing – take centre stage. Your Lohri OOTD guide starts here.

‘Farshi salwar suits & dhoti-style pants feel festive without being overwhelming’
This year, Lohri dressing is gravitating towards silhouettes styled with an effortless contemporary sensibility. “Farshi salwar suits are popular for their elongated silhouette, fluid movement, and regal structure. Paired with embroidered kurtas and statement dupattas, they feel festive without being overwhelming,” say Vrinda Sachdev and Gurinder Singh, co-founders of Qbik.

The duo adds that sharara and gharara sets continue to be popular, especially when styled with short kurta tops that allow for layering during Delhi’s winter. “For men, dhoti-style bottoms paired with embroidered kurtas or layered with bomber jackets are gaining traction, offering a modern take on traditional festive dressing.”
‘Velvet and textured weaves add warmth while holding structure’
Winter-friendly fabrics dominate the Lohri lookbook. “Raw silk, pashmina silk, silk jacquards, satin blends and textured weaves work best for Lohri evenings, adding warmth while holding structure beautifully,” says Vrinda.
Designer Rajdeep Ranawat agrees that Lohri celebrations call for rich fabrics. “Think silks, silk dupions, Chanderis, and velvets for a Lohri function. Prints and detailing like bandhej motifs, subtle ikat influences, Banarasi-inspired brocades and miniature-style florals are timeless. Zardozi, resham work, mirror accents and delicate rhinestones can add some festive sparkle.”

Lifestyle influencer Deeksha Mishra suggests, “Opt for a velvet kurta in a deep winter hue, paired with a blush organza dupatta to keep the look light. The contrast of rich texture and sheer layering works perfectly for the celebration.”

Fashion and lifestyle influencer Mehak Jain says she’ll choose a farshi salwar with a velvet kaftan or pashmina cape. “Oversized jhumkis and a maang tikka add instant festive charm, while sleek buns or braided hair (gutt) adorned with gota complete the look.”

Fashion and lifestyle influencer Mahima Chawla Chandhok says, “For Lohri, I gravitate towards rich winter fabrics like velvet, raw silk and heavier suit sets. A phulkari dupatta or pashmina shawl is my go-to. Traditional jhumkas or chandbalis with stacked bangles elevate the look, while kohl, a bright lip, and a sleek low bun or soft waves tie it all together.”

‘No Lohri look is complete without a parandi’
Celebrity stylist Rochelle D’sa suggests fusion dressing. “Think colour-block shararas, tassel and mirror-work cholis with tissue lehengas, or capes layered over brocade pants. Even a tailored velvet blazer styled with a lehenga feels fresh and festive,” she says. “Finish with embellished juttis and a potli, jhumkas with ear chains, and a customised parandi – an instant Lohri showstopper.”