My City My Navratri: An expert guide to dazzle in your red sari

Red, the colour of the sixth day of Navratri, symbolises strength, fervour, and passion. On this day, Goddess Durga takes the form of Katyayani, who is believed to be the epitome of love and also the manifestation of war spirits. Red has been a timeless favourite in the fashion industry and has always made bigger and bolder comebacks. Here’s how you can incorporate red into your wardrobe and create a stunning look.
CHOOSING THE PERFECT RED SARI
Fabric: While choices like silk, georgette, and chiffon remain popular, red saris in options such as velvet, tulle, and organza are now in fashion.
Shade: The ideal shade of red depends on skin tone and the time of day. For lighter skin, consider deep reds like maroon or burgundy while olive or wheatish skin can carry off vibrant hues like crimson or scarlet. Caramel and dusky skin tones look gorgeous in rich shades like ruby or cherry red.
Accessories: While gold accessories look absolutely royal on red, oxidised silver jewellery or ruby embedded jewellery can give a rustic look. Adding a statement belt that cinches the waist can add some dimensions to the silhouette. Inputs from Chaitanya Rao, fashion designer, and Anu Vardhan, celebrity stylist
How to get the makeup game on point
Eyes: If opting for a bold look, try smoky eyes with long lashes. A thick kajal look on the waterline and below, with neutral eyeshadows (hints of brown, bronze, or copper), will do wonders in making your eyes stand out.
Face: To make sure that the eyes stand out, keep the face makeup minimal. An important point to consider is that red tends to look a little dull on cold undertones, so make sure to use the right shade of colour corrector under your foundation.
Lips: Bold red lips can be a statement piece but if you prefer a subtle look, opt for a nude or pink lipstick. Lip liners can add definition and prevent feathering. Add a coat of transparent lip gloss for a glossy lip look.
Hair: While a sleek bun with some gajra is sure to steal the show, consider a wet hair pull back look or a half-up half-down hairstyle, for a more contemporary style. Inputs Meghali Shivan, a city-based makeup artist