Dressing the whole family for Diwali, without the last-minute rush

Diwali is the one day in the year when the whole family wants to look its best at the same time — for the puja, the photos and the visits to relatives. A little planning makes it much easier.

Pick a colour story, not a uniform

Matching outfits can feel forced. Instead, choose two or three colours that sit well together — say maroon, gold and cream — and let each person wear them in their own way. A kurta for one, a dupatta or border for another. The photos will look coordinated without anyone feeling dressed up as a set.

Sort children's sizes first

Children grow fast, and kids' festive sizes are the first to sell out in October. Bring them along for a trial a couple of weeks ahead, and leave a little room for growth in kurta lengths.

Comfort for a long day

Diwali starts early and ends late. Choose cotton or cotton-silk linings for anything worn close to the skin, and keep heavy embroidery for the evening. If you're lighting diyas, avoid long, loose synthetic dupattas near the flame.

One last thing

Try everything on at home a few days before — with the footwear you plan to wear. That leaves time for small alterations.