Garba is all about dancing, twirling and enjoying the festive spirit, but wearing a heavy lehenga for hours can make it difficult to move comfortably. If you want to enjoy Navratri without compromising on style, celebrity-inspired alternatives can offer plenty of inspiration.
From Janhvi Kapoor’s colourful Gujarati saree to Ananya Panday’s contemporary three-piece outfit, these looks combine traditional elements with lighter, more practical silhouettes that can work well for Garba nights.
Celebrity-Inspired Garba Looks for Navratri 2026
1. Janhvi Kapoor’s Gujarati Saree
Janhvi Kapoor’s Gujarati saree is a colourful option for anyone looking beyond the traditional lehenga. Designed by Nidhi Tambi Kejriwal, the saree features a deep blue base highlighted with vibrant shades of pink, red, orange and green in traditional motifs.
She styled it with the pallu draped at the front and wore a matching short-sleeved blouse. Oversized kundan and polki jhumkas, stacked bangles and a maangtika completed the traditional look.
2. Ananya Panday’s Contemporary Three-Piece Set
Ananya Panday’s outfit shows how traditional Garba fashion can be combined with modern silhouettes. Her ensemble by Arpita Mehta uses vibrant yellow bandhani fabric but replaces the conventional ghagra with pants.
She accessorised the outfit with oversized gold-toned jhumkas and stacked bangles. Her makeup was kept simple and fresh, making the overall look a blend of festive and contemporary fashion.
3. Kareena Kapoor’s Royal Purple Lehenga
For those who still want to wear a lehenga but prefer a more regal aesthetic, Kareena Kapoor’s purple ensemble offers inspiration. Her outfit by Anamika Khanna features detailed hand embroidery in gold, green and red.
She paired the lehenga with a heavy dupatta and oxidised earrings, creating a traditional look with a royal touch.
4. Alia Bhatt’s Ajrak Mirror-Work Saree
Alia Bhatt’s ajrak mirror-work saree by Nidhi Tambi Kejriwal is another option for those who want to skip a heavy lehenga during Garba. The saree was styled with a full-sleeved blouse featuring a sweetheart neckline.
She accessorised the look with ornate Chand Begum chand bali earrings, an enamel bracelet stack and a maangtika by A Jewels by Anmol. A small black bindi and open, wavy hair completed the ensemble.
5. Rashmika Mandanna’s Anarkali Suit
Rashmika Mandanna opted for an elaborate anarkali suit for the 43rd India Day Parade in New York. The outfit featured intricate motifs and rich embroidery, giving it a festive and regal appearance.
She paired the anarkali with a heavy dupatta, a statement choker and matching earrings. For those who want the elegance and movement of a traditional outfit without choosing a lehenga, an anarkali can be an option to consider.
Garba Style for Navratri 2026
This Navratri, festive fashion does not have to mean carrying a heavy outfit throughout the night. Sarees, contemporary sets and anarkalis can offer alternatives while still keeping the traditional festive look intact.
The key is to choose an outfit that allows you to move comfortably, enjoy the celebrations and dance through the Garba night with ease.