There is something irresistibly mystical about Indian festive dressing: the dazzle of zari, the perfume of jasmine, and the manner in which an impeccably draped sari can transport you into a jubilant mood in an instant. For Tara Sutaria’s Ganpati Chaturthi dressing this year, she taught us just how to do it with poise, dignity, and utmost respect for tradition, yet keeping it far from stuffy in its freshness.
Tara Sutaria, draped in a stunning champagne-toned tissue Kanjeevaram sari by Tarun Tahiliani, embraced a look that honored tradition while speaking to the modern Indian woman. If you’ve been looking for inspiration for the upcoming festive season, this look checks all the boxes: timeless textile, intricate craftsmanship, and accessories that make a statement.
A Closer Examination of the Sari
Let’s discuss that sari. Kanjeevarams are famous for their design, luxury, and unique techniques of weaving, and this one was delivered with a twist. Rendered in a soft champagne hue, the sari had a gleaming tissue silk base, subtle yet festive. What truly elevated it, though, was the embellishment. It was covered edge to edge in zardozi, aari, sequin, crystal, and pearl work—a labor of love that sparkled without overpowering.
What made the detailing so special was the layout: floral vines and geometric motifs arranged in clean vertical panels across the pallu and borders. This gave the garment rhythm, structure, and just the right amount of visual drama. The cloth, however weighty with embroidery, continued to flow, courtesy of the crispness of Kanjeevaram silk lending Tara’s drape statuesque beauty.
The blouse went well with the sari. Elbow-length sleeves fully embroidered to mirror the sari and a crisply cut back fringed with pearls—it was regal yet sultry. Beaded tassels lent a playful finishing touch to the pallu and blouse sleeves.
The Jewellery: Old-World Elegance Enters New-Age Cutting Edge
Shot by Tanvi Ghavri, assisted by Srika Badkar, the appearance was finished with jaw-dropping jewelry courtesy of Raniwala 1881. Though minimalism has reigned supreme over the past few years, Tara went bold off-piste with an expansive diamond and emerald choker that rested comfortably high on her neck. Coordinated dangling earrings and bangles contributed to the grandeur.
While the choker and the gems are clearly old-fashioned in style, the combination of diamonds and emeralds introduced a modern-day flair—just the sort of surprise that makes a classic style seem new.
Hair and Makeup: Simple, Yet Glowing
Tara’s hair was pulled back into a smooth, center-parted bun and decorated with a scented sprig of jasmine flowers. This is the kind of detail that makes all the difference during Indian festivities, making them nostalgic, timeless, and beautiful.
Her makeup was radiant and refined: bronzy cheeks, softly smoked-out eyes with fluttery lashes, and a glossy peach-toned lip that pulled everything together without competing with the richness of the ensemble.
The overall effect? Sophisticated, photogenic, and totally in sync with the grandeur of Ganpati celebrations.
Tarun Tahiliani’s Signature Stamp
If you’re familiar with Tarun Tahiliani’s work, you’ll immediately recognize his design language in Tara’s look. The designer is known for blending traditional Indian silhouettes with contemporary structure and surface embellishment, and this sari is a perfect example.
From the metallic base to the architectural drape and the intricate surface detailing, it all sits neatly within Tahiliani’s vision of “India Modern”: classic, but never dated; opulent, yet never over-the-top.
A Note from Vogue: How to Make It Your Own
According to Vogue India fashion associate Manglien Gangte, there’s room to interpret and personalize the look further. “To push it beyond the expected, you could skip the choker and layer a long temple necklace instead. This would add a bit of lightness to the look and dress it up instead with a bold berry lip.”
It’s a smart styling tip, especially if you want to carry this look from day to night or give it a slightly softer, more traditional spin.
Final Thoughts
Tara Sutaria’s Ganpati Chaturthi look is a gentle reminder that tradition doesn’t have to be boring and modernity doesn’t have to come at the cost of cultural authenticity. With the right fabric, a little shimmer, and carefully chosen accessories, a traditional sari can still make the cut.
Whether you’re planning for Diwali, a winter wedding, or just want to bring out your favorite silk this season, let Tara’s look be your blueprint. It’s festive fashion at its finest.