Diwali in Melbourne is a layering problem disguised as a wardrobe decision. The afternoon is warm, the evening is not, and the day usually involves at least one walk between a house and a car in whatever the city has decided to do with the weather.
Fabric does more of the work here than silhouette. Brocade and velvet hold their shape and keep the warmth in once the sun goes. Chinon, crepe and chiffon move beautifully and do nothing for you at nine at night.
That argues for a heavier base with a lighter second layer rather than the other way around. A brocade sharara with a chiffon dupatta gives you something substantial on the body and something you can take off. The reverse — light trousers and a heavy wrap — leaves you adjusting all evening.
Colour is the one place to be uncomplicated. Diwali is lit by small warm lights, and warm tones under warm light read as intended. Deep rust, marigold, oxblood, gold.
