Why Indian fashion will always be about grandeur

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Kritik
08 Nov 2026
72
SubCategory | Events & Lifestyle

Why Indian fashion will always be about grandeur

By Shivani Supramani

Every few years, fashion declares maximalism is making a comeback. Bold colours return to the runway, elaborate embellishments find their way into collections and statement accessories reclaim the spotlight.

But in Indian culture, one has to wonder: when did maximalism ever leave?

For generations, grandeur has been part of the way Indian communities dress, celebrate and express themselves.

From richly embroidered saris and elaborate lehengas to layered jewellery, intricate textiles and vibrant colours, Indian fashion has never been particularly shy about making an impression.

As Deepavali approaches, this love for all things lavish becomes especially visible. Wardrobes take on a festive glow, jewellery boxes are opened and outfits become an opportunity to embrace colour, craftsmanship and personal expression.

It is not simply about dressing up. It is about celebrating an occasion with the same warmth and abundance that define the festivities themselves.

Grandeur woven into heritage

The idea of alamkara, or adornment, has long influenced Indian aesthetics. More than decoration, it reflects the belief that beauty can be expressed through detail, craftsmanship and the thoughtful layering of elements.

This philosophy is visible across traditional Indian clothing. A sari may feature elaborate zari work, a lehenga can be covered in intricate embroidery, while a simple outfit can be transformed through carefully chosen jewellery, accessories and embellishments.

These details are rarely accidental.

Why Indian fashion will always be about grandeur Brown saree featuring marodi and zardozi embroidered floral jaal motifs. – ALL PICS FROM PINTEREST

Techniques such as zari (a metallic thread – traditionally made of fine gold or silver – woven or embroidered into traditional South Asian garments), zardozi embroidery, mirror work, beadwork and intricate hand embroidery reflect generations of craftsmanship, with regional traditions giving each textile and garment its own character.

Indian maximalism is therefore not simply about wearing more. It is about the artistry behind each detail and the stories carried through fabric, colour and ornamentation.

What may appear extravagant at first glance often represents hours of skilled work and a cultural tradition passed down through generations.

More than an outfit, an expression

In Indian culture, clothing is closely tied to emotion, memory and identity. What we wear often reflects the occasion, the people we are celebrating with and the traditions we want to honour.

Festive dressing brings this relationship to life.

Deepavali, weddings and family gatherings offer opportunities to bring out garments that may otherwise remain carefully stored away. Some outfits are chosen for their craftsmanship, others for sentimental reasons, while a few are treasured because they have been passed down through the family.

Why Indian fashion will always be about grandeur Popularised in India during the Mughal era, Surat (Gujarat) remains a major global centre for zari production.

There is also a certain joy in getting dressed for the occasion. The familiar ritual of selecting an outfit, matching jewellery, deciding on accessories and adding the finishing touches becomes part of the celebration itself.

For many, these choices are also a way of staying connected to their roots.

A grandmother’s sari, a mother’s jewellery or a traditional garment worn with a contemporary twist can carry memories that go beyond fashion. They become pieces of personal history, worn and celebrated all over again.

Why minimalism never replaced maximalism

Minimalism certainly has its place in fashion. Clean silhouettes, neutral palettes and understated accessories offer their own appeal and Indian designers have embraced these approaches in different ways.

However, the popularity of simpler dressing does not mean that the desire for grandeur has disappeared. Indian fashion has always had room for both. A richly embroidered outfit can sit comfortably alongside a minimalist kurta, just as traditional jewellery can be paired with a contemporary silhouette.

Why Indian fashion will always be about grandeur The lengha features mirror hand-embroidery detailing, a scalloped waistline and hem and is paired with a matching full-sleeved tasselled blouse and dupatta.

What makes Indian fashion particularly interesting is its ability to adapt without losing its visual identity. Designers and wearers continue to experiment with cuts, fabrics and styling, bringing traditional techniques into modern wardrobes. A classic sari may be styled with a contemporary blouse, while traditional embroidery finds a place on modern co-ord sets, jackets and dresses.

The result is not a rejection of heritage, but a reinterpretation of it. Maximalism evolves, taking on new forms while retaining the richness that has long defined Indian aesthetics.

Deepavali is perfect excuse to embrace more

If there is one occasion that makes a strong case for dressing with a little extra flair, it is Deepavali. The Festival of Lights is filled with colour, family gatherings, food and celebrations, making festive fashion part of the atmosphere.

It is a time when vibrant hues, shimmering fabrics and statement accessories feel right at home. Gold accents, jewel tones, intricate embroidery and traditional silhouettes offer plenty of ways to dress for the occasion, whether someone prefers a grand ensemble or a more understated look with a few standout details.

Why Indian fashion will always be about grandeur One thing we have always been known for is that we never shy away from intricate designs, no matter the occasion.

There is no single way to interpret festive dressing, either. Some may gravitate towards a heavily embellished sari or lehenga, while others prefer a kurta set with striking accessories. The beauty lies in making the look personal, choosing pieces that feel comfortable while still capturing the spirit of the celebration.

And perhaps that is what Indian maximalism has always understood. Dressing up is not necessarily about following a trend or making the biggest statement in the room. It is about finding joy in colour, appreciating craftsmanship and allowing clothing to become part of a meaningful occasion.

Maximalism never went out of style

Fashion will continue to move between understated and extravagant, with each season giving different aesthetics their moment in the spotlight. But Indian fashion has never needed a trend cycle to justify its love for grandeur.

Its richness comes from centuries of artistry, regional influences, family traditions and the simple pleasure of celebrating life’s milestones in beautiful clothes. It is a visual language that continues to evolve, whether through traditional heirlooms or contemporary interpretations.

So, as Deepavali brings another season of festive dressing, perhaps it is time to stop calling maximalism a comeback. In Indian fashion, it has always had a place in the wardrobe. It was never waiting for permission to return.

Source: fashion-beauty/indian-fashion-maximalism

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