Top 5 Festive Colours to Make Your Outfit Look Luxurious Without Spending Much

The festive season in our part of the world is more than just a date on the calendar; it's an emotion. There's music in the streets, sweets on every table, and sparkle in the air. But let's admit it, amidst all the lights and laughter, there's also that eternal wardrobe dilemma: What to wear this time? The secret doesn't lie in designer labels or heavy embellishments. It's all in the colour. The right shade can elevate even the simplest cotton kurta or plain saree into something that looks straight out of a couture photoshoot. 

Here are 5 timeless colours that never fail to look expensive, yet don't demand a royal budget. Pair them smartly, accessorise with confidence, and let these shades do the magic.

Discover the top 5 festive colours that make your outfit look luxurious and elegant this season without overspending.
Photo Credit: Pexels

Top Shades That Make Every Outfit Look Pricier

1. Emerald Green, A Shade That Whispers Luxury

Emerald green carries an undeniable charm, the kind that turns heads without shouting for attention. This deep, lush hue has been a festive favourite for generations, loved for its richness and connection with nature. It evokes the serenity of rolling hills after the monsoon and the grandeur of royal palaces.

A silk kurta in emerald, paired with antique gold jhumkas or a delicate dupatta with zari hints, looks effortlessly elegant. It's a colour that flatters every skin tone, radiating sophistication whether worn in daylight or under twinkling fairy lights. Even an outfit from a local boutique can look high-end in this shade, that's the beauty of it.

Add subtle contrast with cream, beige, or bronze accessories, and you'll have an ensemble that exudes confidence and class. For those who love sarees, an emerald chiffon with a sleek blouse makes a strong yet graceful statement. This colour doesn't need heavy work or a designer label, its richness does all the talking.

2. Deep Wine, The Colour of Understated Glamour

There's something irresistibly indulgent about deep wine tones. Think of it as the quiet cousin of red, less loud, more mature, and infinitely chic. It has that velvety finish which instantly elevates an outfit, making it look like it belongs at a high-end soirée, even if you bought it for under ₹1,500.

Wine-coloured lehengas, kurtas, or even Indo-western drapes look stunning under warm lights. It's a hue that photographs beautifully, catching shadows and gleams in just the right way. For daytime celebrations, choose lightweight fabrics like georgette or crepe; for evening gatherings, go for velvet or raw silk for that touch of regal flair.

Pairing it with muted gold, rose gold, or pearl accessories adds to its allure. A simple pair of chandbalis and a sleek bun can do wonders. The best part? Wine suits every occasion, from Diwali dinners to wedding receptions, without ever feeling repetitive. It's one of those shades that speaks luxury, even in simplicity.

3. Midnight Blue, Effortlessly Sophisticated

Few colours can compete with the quiet power of midnight blue. It's mysterious, refined, and timeless, a perfect substitute for black when you want something festive yet formal. While black may sometimes feel too Western for traditional celebrations, midnight blue walks that fine line beautifully.

Picture a navy saree with subtle zari detailing or a long blue anarkali with mirror work, it's the kind of outfit that whispers elegance rather than flaunting it. The hue absorbs light just enough to create depth, giving even inexpensive fabrics a rich texture. A plain cotton kurta in midnight blue, paired with a contrasting dupatta, can look as grand as designer couture.

This shade works best with silver or oxidised jewellery, think chunky bangles, jhumkas, or statement chokers. And for those who prefer fusion wear, a blue crop top paired with a flowy skirt can strike the perfect balance between traditional and trendy. Midnight blue doesn't just look expensive; it feels like quiet confidence stitched into fabric.

Also Read: Diwali Saree Styling Guide: Accessorising Smartly To Look Effortless, Not Overdone

4. Champagne Gold, The Subtle Sparkle of Celebration

Gold is festive. That's a given. But while bright, brassy golds can sometimes look overwhelming, champagne gold brings in the right dose of shimmer without going overboard. It's elegant, understated, and endlessly versatile. Think of it as the colour equivalent of perfectly applied highlighter, radiant, not blinding.

This soft golden tone pairs beautifully with almost every other festive colour, emerald, maroon, ivory, or even blush pink. A champagne saree with minimal embroidery or a plain kurta with gold piping can look polished enough for a family gathering or festive puja. The sheen of this hue adds depth, making even budget fabrics appear more refined.

To style it right, stick with delicate jewellery, pearl strings, dainty studs, or classic kundan. Avoid too much sparkle; the charm of champagne gold lies in its subtle glow. Whether worn during the day or under warm evening lights, it reflects sophistication that never feels forced.

Even the simplest outfit in this shade can make you look like you belong on a fashion magazine cover, no exaggeration, just timeless style.

5. Maroon, A Heritage Classic That Never Ages

If there's one shade that defines celebration, it's maroon. Deep, warm, and endlessly regal, it's a colour that transcends trends. From grand wedding outfits to simple festive kurtas, maroon brings a royal aura that few others can match. It's the kind of colour that instantly adds depth and richness, even to plain fabrics.

A maroon silk kurta or saree with intricate borders looks heritage-inspired yet modern. Pair it with antique jewellery or brass-toned accessories for a classic look that's both grounded and graceful. For something fresh, try maroon with contrasting pastel dupattas, a soft blush or sage green can modernise the traditional charm beautifully.

Maroon works wonders across occasions, from Diwali nights to family gatherings, offering that perfect mix of tradition and elegance. It's a hue that needs minimal effort yet delivers maximum impact. When you wear maroon, you don't just wear a colour, you wear history, emotion, and timeless style.

5 Festive Outfit Colours That Look Expensive, Even When They Are Not; Photo Credit: Pexels

Products Related To This Article

1. Sangria Green Floral Embroidered Regular Anarkali Kurta With Trouser With Dupatta

2. Kasee Embroidered Saree

3. Shae by SASSAFRAS Women Embroidered Regular Sequinned Kurta with Palazzos

4. DIVASTRI Women Blue Sarees

5. Anouk Halter Neck Printed Embroidered Culotte Jumpsuit with Belt

Festivals are about joy, connection, and the beauty of tradition, but looking good while celebrating doesn't have to come with a hefty price tag. The right colour can make even a modest outfit look like something out of a designer catalogue. Emerald green, deep wine, midnight blue, champagne gold, and maroon, each of these shades holds its own magic, adding grace and sophistication without the need for excessive embellishments.

Style, after all, isn't about what you spend, it's about what you choose. A thoughtfully selected colour, a confident smile, and a hint of sparkle are all you need to stand out during the festivities. So the next time the season of lights comes calling, reach for these timeless hues, mix them with your personality, and let your outfit tell its story, one elegant shade at a time. 

Disclaimer: The images used in this article are for illustration purpose only. They may not be an exact representation of the products, categories and brands listed in this article.