Everyone plans the Diwali outfit. Far fewer people plan for Dhanteras (the day of gold and new beginnings) and Bhai Dooj (the sibling celebration two days after Diwali). Both are photo-heavy family days, and both have their own colour traditions. Here is what to wear for each in 2026, with a shoppable lookbook.
Diwali Week 2026 at a Glance
- Dhanteras – 6 November 2026 (Friday)
- Choti Diwali – 7 November 2026
- Diwali / Lakshmi Puja – 8 November 2026
- Govardhan Puja / Gujarati New Year – 9 November 2026
- Bhai Dooj – 10 November 2026
Dates may vary slightly by region and panchang – check your local calendar.
Dhanteras Outfit Ideas: Gold, Yellow and Auspicious Shades
Dhanteras is dedicated to Lakshmi and Kubera, and the day is associated with wealth and prosperity. Traditionally, people wear yellow, gold, mustard, orange or red – colours linked to abundance. For women, a tissue or silk saree in mustard or gold with zari or zardosi is ideal; for men, yellow, mustard or off-white kurta sets keep it auspicious.
Dhanteras Lookbook
Bhai Dooj Outfit Ideas: Fresh, Bright and Sibling-Coordinated
Bhai Dooj falls after the big Diwali night, so people tend to want something lighter and fresher. It is also a great day for sibling twinning – brother and sister in the same colour family makes for the best family photos of the week. Pink, peach, sky blue and pista green are the 2026 Bhai Dooj colours.
Bhai Dooj Lookbook (Sister + Brother Pairs)
For Kids
Little brothers deserve a matching look too. Embroidered viscose silk kurtas for boys in pista green, sky blue or yellow are perfect for the tikka ceremony.
Sibling Twinning Combos for 2026
| Sister | Brother |
|---|---|
| Peach crepe saree | Rose pink kurta set |
| Sky blue crepe saree | Sky blue kurta set |
| Sage green silk saree | Olive green kurta set |
| Magenta crepe saree | Purple kurta set |
Quick Styling Tips
- Dhanteras is a puja day – keep the neckline modest and choose a saree you can sit in comfortably.
- Bhai Dooj involves a lot of travelling between homes – crepe and rayon crease less than cotton.
- Add one gold accessory on Dhanteras (bangles, jhumkas, or a brooch for men) to honour the tradition.
- Buy both outfits together – Diwali week deliveries slow down, so order by the last week of October.
FAQs
Which colour is lucky on Dhanteras? Yellow, gold, orange and red are considered the most auspicious.
Can I wear black on Bhai Dooj? Traditionally families avoid black during Diwali week – choose a bright or pastel shade instead.
What should a sister wear for the tikka ceremony? A comfortable saree or suit in a festive colour; keep the pallu pinned so it does not interfere with the aarti.
Shop Diwali week looks at VJV Now: sarees, men's kurta sets and kids ethnic wear.
