One chaniya choli, several looks: restyling for nine nights
4 min read
Change the dupatta
The dupatta is the largest block of colour after the skirt, so swapping it changes the whole outfit. A contrast bandhani or leheriya dupatta on a plain chaniya looks like a different set. Changing the drape, from one shoulder to saree style, helps as well.
Swap the blouse
Wear the chaniya with a different blouse, a mirror-work kurti or even a plain fitted top in a matching colour. A black or white blouse goes with almost any chaniya and is worth owning for this reason.
Rotate the jewellery
Oxidised silver one night, coloured thread or beaded jewellery the next, and a kamarbandh or hair accessories on another. Jewellery costs far less than a new outfit and makes the most visible difference in photos.
Mix sets
If you and a friend or sister are similar sizes, exchange dupattas or blouses for a night. Mixing the skirt of one set with the blouse of another often looks more interesting than either original.
Look after it between nights
After each night, hang the outfit in a ventilated place rather than leaving it in a bag. Spot clean the hem, which collects the most dust, and check that mirrors and tie-backs are secure before you wear it again.
More guides
- How to choose a chaniya choli for garbaFabric, flare, weight and length: what makes a chaniya choli comfortable to dance in.
- Garba night checklist: jewellery, footwear and outfit careWhat to wear with your outfit, what to carry, and how to store mirror work afterwards.
- Cotton, rayon, chanderi or silk: choosing a kurta fabricWhich fabric suits which weather and occasion, and how each one washes.
- How to measure yourself for a lehengaThe four measurements that matter and how to take them at home.
- How to store and care for a silk sareeSimple habits that keep silk from fading, creasing and losing its zari shine.
