Chikankari, Prints Or Solids? What to Wear for Festive Days At Work

As the calendar flips to that time of year, think laddoos in the pantry, WhatsApp groups buzzing with "colour code for tomorrow?" messages, and office desks adorned with marigolds, it's clear the festive spirit has arrived. But amid the glow of diyas and the rhythm of dhol, one pressing question bubbles up every year: What should I wear to work during the festivities? It's a fine balance. You want to look celebratory but still office-appropriate. No one wants to look like they're headed to a baraat while others show up in linen shirts. Yet, going too simple might make one feel out of sync with the festive cheer. So, what's the sweet spot between subtle sparkle and bling overload?

Let's decode three timeless styles, Chikankari, prints, and solids, to help make dressing for festive workdays less stressful and a lot more fun.

Work Festivities: Choosing Between Chikankari, Prints, or Solids for Office Celebrations; Photo Credit: Pexels

1. Chikankari: Elegance That Whispers, Not Shouts

There's something poetic about Chikankari. With its delicate hand embroidery, pastel hues, and breezy fabrics, it speaks of understated grace. Ideal for those who want to keep things light yet festive, Chikankari offers a soft nod to tradition without going full throttle on shimmer.

Whether it's a cream kurta with intricate white threadwork or a baby pink ensemble paired with oxidized silver jhumkas, the look feels both grounded and graceful. The beauty lies in its subtlety, it celebrates the craft without drawing too much attention. For workplaces where the festive vibe is present but muted, Chikankari fits like a dream.

Men aren't left out either. A Chikankari kurta in shades like mint green, ivory, or even dusty blue paired with chinos or trousers can strike the perfect festive note without feeling costume-y. It's elegance with ease, and there's hardly a better combination for a day that includes both meetings and modaks.

2. Playful Prints: When Patterns Spark Joy

If you're someone who believes clothes should speak before you do, prints might just be your festive BFF. From floral jaals and block-printed motifs to kalamkari touches, printed outfits add character without needing sequins or heavy zardozi.

A printed Anarkali or a co-ord set can make heads turn, not because it's loud, but because it's joyful. That's the charm of a well-designed print, it feels alive. And it also gives you space to be expressive without stepping outside your comfort zone.

For workwear, go for prints on soft cottons or silk blends that breathe well. Avoid the ones that are too cluttered or overly bright. Think indigo florals, buta patterns, or small geometric designs. Men can try printed Nehru jackets layered over plain kurtas or even subtle paisley motifs on a kurta shirt. It's festive, it's fun, and most importantly, it tells a story without saying a word.

Also Read: Budget Bling: 10 Cotton Kurta Sets Under ₹500 That Effortlessly Appear High-End

3. Solids: The Power of Simplicity

Don't let anyone tell you that solids are boring. When styled right, solid colours can be striking, commanding, and incredibly chic. Think deep mustard, emerald green, oxblood red, or royal blue, each colour has its own festive energy.

Solids are great for those who don't want to fuss too much over patterns and textures. A well-fitted kurta in a bold shade, paired with a contrasting dupatta or a printed stole, can elevate your entire look. And it gives you room to play with accessories, jhumkas, mojris, even that antique pocket watch that only sees daylight during Diwali.

Solid-coloured outfits also offer the flexibility to be re-worn differently. Pair the same kurta with palazzos one day, a skirt the next. No one's keeping score.

Men can experiment with monochrome looks, say, an all-black kurta-pyjama with a colourful stole or even tan loafers. It's about confident minimalism, and sometimes, less really is more.

Dress for Festive Workdays: Chikankari, Prints, or Solids—Making Your Best Choice; Photo Credit: Pexels

4. Balance is the Real Dress Code

Before picking what to wear, assess your office vibe. Is it a full-blown rangoli-on-every-floor kind of celebration or more like a quiet mithai-at-lunch scenario? Your outfit should reflect the energy of the space.

If your team loves dressing up, lean in. Go for a printed kurta or embroidered suit with subtle jewellery. If things are more subdued, a Chikankari set with juttis could be perfect. There's no universal dress code for festive wear, but the unspoken rule is to look like you care, without looking like you're about to attend a sangeet.

Layering helps. A printed dupatta over a solid kurta or a colourful waistcoat over a white shirt can take your look up a notch while keeping it functional. Balance is everything, you want to look festive without compromising on comfort or professionalism.

5. Accessorise with Intention

Festive dressing isn't just about the clothes, it's also about the finishing touches. But here's the secret: less can still make a statement.

Swap your regular studs for small chandbalis or drop earrings. Add a single kada or a layered bracelet. If your outfit is muted, a bold accessory can shine. But if you're wearing prints or bold colours, dial it down. A tiny bindi, a delicate chain, or a textured clutch can bring in just the right festive flavour.

Men can experiment too. A pair of embroidered mojris, a printed pocket square, or a classic watch adds character. A touch of attar, maybe rose or sandalwood, goes a long way, it's invisible but lingers in the best way.

6. Hair and Makeup, A Touch, Not a Transformation

You're not heading to a wedding, so keep it simple but special. For makeup, a tinted moisturiser, kohl, and a festive lip shade, maybe a warm plum or rusty coral, can do wonders.

As for hair, soft waves, a side braid, or a sleek bun with a gajra can elevate your look without requiring an hour in front of the mirror. Gents can tame the frizz, maybe add a bit of styling gel or beard oil if that's your thing. The idea is to look polished, not over-prepped.

If it's a short office day, you can even keep your hair open and casual. Add a tiny maang tikka if your workplace is festive-friendly. A little goes a long way when it comes to grooming, and small touches often make the biggest impression.

Office Festive Wear: Chikankari, Prints, or Solids—What's Your Ideal Stylish Pick?; Photo Credit: Pexels

7. Confidence Is The Best Outfit

No matter what you wear, embroidery, prints, solids, or something in between, it's your attitude that brings it all together. When you walk into the office with a smile, feeling good about how you look, that confidence becomes your best accessory.

So don't worry too much about being trendy or following a checklist. Let your personal style guide you. Some people shine in pastels, others in jewel tones. Some love danglers, some prefer studs. There's no one-size-fits-all in festive dressing, and thank goodness for that.

Celebrate your uniqueness, enjoy the season, and remember, whether it's a pooja in the pantry or a surprise laddoo giveaway, you're dressed for the part.

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Festive workdays are special. They offer a moment to pause the daily grind, share a laugh with colleagues, and indulge in some sweets while looking your best. Whether you choose a soft Chikankari ensemble, a joyful printed outfit, or a bold solid number, make sure it feels like you.

Festive dressing isn't just about looking good; it's about feeling connected, celebrating moments, and letting the sparkle of the season reflect in your clothes and your smile. So go ahead, pick your favourite style, and let the office festivities begin.  Check today's deals on Myntra.

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