Navratri 2026 runs October 2–11. Each of the nine nights has a designated colour — and the garba floor is one of the most colour-coded occasions in the Indian calendar. Here is a practical guide to the nine Navratri colours in 2026 and how to dress for them without giving up comfort through a long night of dancing.
Navratri 2026 colours by day
| Day | Date | Colour |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 — Pratipada | October 2 | Yellow |
| Day 2 — Dwitiya | October 3 | Green |
| Day 3 — Tritiya | October 4 | Grey |
| Day 4 — Chaturthi | October 5 | Orange |
| Day 5 — Panchami | October 6 | White |
| Day 6 — Shashthi | October 7 | Red |
| Day 7 — Saptami | October 8 | Royal Blue |
| Day 8 — Ashtami | October 9 | Pink |
| Day 9 — Navami | October 10 | Purple |
What type of outfit works for garba
Garba nights run long — typically 9PM to 2AM or later. Whatever you wear needs to move freely, breathe, and still look good at midnight. This rules out heavy embellishment that restricts movement, thick fabrics that trap heat, and anything that requires constant adjustment.
The practical choices for garba: a printed co-ord set in the day's colour (easy to find at HOH — the co-ord range covers most Navratri colours), a printed kurta with a palazzo, or a comfortable dress in the correct colour that gives you full range of movement. Sequined tops are a good choice for the later, more stationary part of the evening — but wear them over something breathable.
What to wear for the Navratri puja (not garba)
Navratri puja is typically shorter and less physically demanding than garba. Standard festive outfit rules apply: the colour of the day, preferably natural fabric, modest silhouette. A cotton co-ord set, a printed kurta, or a structured top in the correct colour all work well.
Fabrics that work for Navratri
October in most of India is warm — Navratri falls in the transitional period after the monsoon but before real winter. Cotton, cotton-linen blends, modal, and poplin all work well. Breathability matters significantly for garba nights. Avoid anything polyester or synthetic as a base layer — it will feel suffocating after an hour of dancing.
HOH picks for Navratri 2026
All pieces are handcrafted in limited quantities — check sizes before they sell out.
- Festive collection — embroidered and printed styles across Navratri colours
- Co-ord sets — the practical choice for a full garba night
- Tops and shirts — pair with your own bottoms
Frequently asked questions
When is Navratri 2026?
Navratri 2026 (Sharad Navratri) runs from October 2 to October 11. Dussehra falls on October 12.
Do I have to wear the correct colour each day?
Not strictly. The colour of the day is a traditional guide, not a dress code. Most women follow it at least partially — it's part of the celebration. If you're going to a large garba event, wearing the colour makes you feel part of the occasion.
What is the most comfortable outfit for garba?
A printed co-ord set or a loose printed kurta with a palazzo in breathable cotton. You need full range of movement and a fabric that stays comfortable for 4–5 hours of dancing.
Where can I buy handcrafted Navratri outfits in India?
Haus of Handmade makes handcrafted festive outfits for women — printed co-ord sets, embroidered tops and statement pieces in limited quantities. Shop the festive collection. Free shipping across India. COD available.