What to Wear for Lohri When You Want Comfort and Compliments

Punjabis are everywhere right now—on playlists, on runways, in pop culture conversations. Its festivals, too, arrive with the same unmistakable energy: warm, generous, unapologetically joyful. Lohri, Punjab’s most beloved harvest celebration, sits right at the heart of it all. Celebrated every year on 13th January, with bonfires crackling, families gathering, and wardrobes stepping into their most confident selves, ti marks the end of winter’s longest nights and welcomes a new harvest season. As we step into 2026, it also becomes the first Indian festival to set the sartorial tone for the year ahead.

Lohri dressing has never been about drama for drama’s sake. It’s instinctive, emotional and practical. Built for winter evenings spent circling fires with family, it favours depth of colour, fabric and feeling—over excessive ornamentation. These are clothes designed to keep you warm, move with you, and be worn again.

The modern Lohri wardrobe blends vibrant tradition with comfort. Bright reds, mustard yellows, deep greens and jewel tones dominate, while silhouettes stay fluid and festive. Think Anarkalis, Shararas, Lehengas, Angrakha suits, or even dhoti-kurta sets for a contemporary twist. Fabric matters. Velvet brings winter richness, silk adds polish, and organza keeps things light. Accessories are joyful but intentional— bangles, bold earrings and oxidised silver.

Ajrakh, Reimagined

Anita Dongre’s red Ajrakh hand block–printed silk tabard set anchors this look. Ajrakh is known for its visual richness, but the tabard silhouette keeps things sharp and modern—no extra layering, no fuss.

Jewellery is kept deliberate and minimal. Oxidised silver pieces from Teejh, a sculptural cuff and floral metallic necklace, add weight without clutter. Anaar’s mirror-detailed platforms finish the look with polish, not distraction.

Style note: Let the print breathe.

Easy Opulence

Vazaneh by Prbhjiit Maniktala's emerald green jacket, bustier, and Farsi salwar set is festive layering done right. The structured jacket adds presence, while the fluid salwar keeps it comfortable and wearable. Fizzy Goblet’s sculptural mule heels ensure the look feels modern, not over-the-top. This is the kind of outfit that works for a family Lohri and a stylish after-party. The Tribe Amrapali Siddhi Long Necklace acts as the perfect accessory for this free-flowing silhouette.

Style note: Balance structure with softness, it’s what makes this look feel effortless.

Modern Drapes

For those who like their festive wear contemporary, Urmil’s asymmetric drape with a crop top and skirt hits the sweet spot. Fluid yet precise, the silhouette feels intentional rather than floaty.

A single statement necklace from Rasa Silver anchors the outfit, while Ferragamo shoes keep the overall look clean and elevated.

Style note: One statement accessory is all you need; let the drape do the talking.

Mirari Ruby Sapphire Long Earrings

Velvet, Reframed

Purple velvet can easily feel heavy, but this kurta set from Ganga Fashions keeps it refreshingly simple. Clean lines allow the richness of the fabric to shine without overwhelming the look.

Accessories are chosen for contrast, not decoration. Bhavya Ramesh’s Cham Cham earrings add sculptural interest, while Jimmy Choo’s liquid-metal sandals bring length and lightness.

Style note: When the fabric is rich, keep everything else easy.

To complement your look, Lohri beauty is all about warmth and radiance. Think glowing skin, bold eyes, and lips that last through dancing and desserts. Richly pigmented eyeshadows complement traditional outfits, while velvety, long-wear lip shades pair beautifully with festive wear. Whether you’re heading to a bonfire celebration or a cosy family get-together, these picks add just the right amount of glam.

Anastasia Beverly Hills Soft Glam Eyeshadow Palette

Top Pick: Anastasia Beverly Hills Soft Glam Eyeshadow Palette—perfect for soft golds, warm browns, and subtle festive drama