9 Colours 9 Days 9 Jewellery Pieces: A Complete Navaratri Style Guide

Navaratri isn’t just about tradition; it’s a vibrant fusion of culture, colours, and celebration. Each of the nine days is filled with unique festivities and symbolic colours. Ready to explore  how to pair jewellery with the spirit of each day?

Let’s Begin

Navaratri is here. How do you celebrate Navaratri? Is it with Garba nights, Golu displays, or just soaking in the festive vibe? Whatever your style, we’ve got a perfect guide to match your jewellery and outfits with the nine colours of Navaratri. This festival, which honours the Goddess Durga, is the perfect time to express your creativity through fashion while celebrating your roots. Let’s explore what makes Navaratri special across different parts of India and how to shine on all nine days!

What is Navaratri and Why Do We Celebrate It?

Navaratri, which translates to ‘nine nights,’ is one of the most significant Hindu festivals observed across India, and it has unique traditions. These nine days are dedicated to worshipping Goddess Durga, her various avatars, and her triumph over evil forces. According to mythology, the festival symbolises Durga’s victory over the demon Mahishasura, making it a time to celebrate the power of good over evil.

The festival is celebrated with fervour and devotion, with each day corresponding to a different form of Durga, and each form is associated with a specific colour. These colours represent the qualities of the goddess: strength, compassion, wisdom, and more – and devotees often wear outfits and accessories that reflect the day’s designated colour as a way of showing respect and devotion.

Navaratri 2024: Date | Goddess Form | Colour

Navratri/Navaratri 2024 will be observed from October 3rd to October 11th. During these days, devotees worship Maa Durga’s nine forms, each linked to a specific day and colour. The festivities will feature Ayudha Pooja on October 11th, followed by Vijayadasami on October 12th.

How Different States Celebrate Navaratri

Navaratri is observed in numerous ways across the country, with each region putting its own cultural spin on the festivities. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most notable ways it’s celebrated:

• South India: In Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh, Navaratri is known for the tradition of Golu, an artistic arrangement of dolls and figurines on tiered steps, often depicting scenes from mythology and daily life. Homes are adorned with these displays, and friends and neighbours are invited to sing devotional songs and enjoy homemade sweets. Women usually wear traditional silk sarees, complemented by gold or temple jewellery that reflects the day’s auspicious colour.

• North India: In Gujarat and Rajasthan, Navaratri comes alive with Garba and Dandiya dances. People gather in colourful traditional attire, with women often wearing lehengas paired with statement jewellery. These dances continue late into the night, as communities come together to celebrate the goddess through music and dance, switching to a new colour every day to align with the spiritual significance.

• East India: In West Bengal, Durga Puja is the highlight of Navaratri. The celebration is grand, with elaborately decorated pandals (temporary temples) housing beautifully crafted idols of Goddess Durga. The air is filled with the sound of drums, prayers, and chanting. People wear their finest traditional sarees, typically red and white, paired with heavy gold jewellery to offer their respects. The last day, Vijayadashami, is celebrated with the emotional farewell of the goddess, marked by processions and the immersion of idols in water.

• Western India: In Maharashtra, Navaratri is celebrated with a mix of devotion and cultural events. Dandiya nights are popular, but so are special pujas (prayers) held in homes and temples. Women often wear bright Paithani sarees or lehengas, accessorised with gold jewellery or kundan pieces to reflect the festive spirit of each day.

Did you know? In some places, like Bihar and Varanasi, Navaratri is celebrated with grand celebrations focusing on Ram Leela, a theatrical reenactment of episodes from the Ramayana. Navaratri and Ramleela focus on the story of Rama’s battle against Ravana and his victory. Diwali focuses on the celebration of Lord Rama’s victorious return to Ayodhya, which is more of a festival of lights and joy. On Dussehra, Ravana’s effigies are burned to symbolise the victory of good over evil. Jewellery choices are often traditional, with women opting for simple gold or silver pieces.

Nine Colours of Navaratri: Matching Jewellery to Each Day

Each day of Navaratri is linked to a specific colour, and wearing that colour is considered auspicious. Why not pair your festive outfits with jewellery that complements the significance of each day? Here’s a sneak peek of how to match your jewellery to the nine days of Navaratri:

Navaratri Day 1

Colour:  Yellow

Jewellery: Gemstone Jewellery

A bright yellow saree brings out Navaratri’s energy and vibrancy. Yellow symbolises joy and positivity, making it an ideal choice for daytime celebrations and events. The warm tones of yellow sarees pair beautifully with elaborate jewellery that balances tradition and modernity.

Jewellery Choice: Gemstone jewellery that incorporates pearls, diamonds, and green stones creates an elegant contrast against the sunny tones of the yellow saree. The pearls add a touch of timeless elegance, while the diamonds and green stones bring in the sparkle and richness needed for a festive look.

Styling Tip: Opt for a pearl and diamond choker with green stone accents to elevate your saree. Add matching earrings and a statement ring to complete the look. Keep your hair in a bun or sleek ponytail to showcase the choker, making it perfect for day-time poojas or festive lunches.

Navaratri Day 2

Colour:  Green

Jewellery: Navaratna Jewellery

A traditional green silk saree or rich green lehenga radiates elegance and class, making it a perfect choice for any festive occasion. Green symbolises growth and prosperity, and when worn during Navaratri, it reflects the beauty and richness of Indian culture. The deep green hue brings out a sense of tradition while being versatile enough to adapt to day and night functions.

Jewellery Choice: The Navaratna jewellery set is a match made in heaven for a green saree. This ancient jewellery style incorporates nine precious gemstones, including ruby, pearl, coral, emerald, and sapphire, each with its spiritual significance. The multicoloured Navaratna stones contrast beautifully with the green fabric, adding layers of colour, meaning, and richness to your festive attire.

Styling Tip: A navaratna necklace with matching earrings and bangles completes the look. The colourful gems stand out against the deep green, making the jewellery the highlight of the outfit. Keep your makeup neutral with a bold lip to enhance the vibrant jewellery. For a traditional touch, style your hair in a classic bun decorated with fresh flowers or traditional hair accessories. This look is perfect for poojas, cultural events, or even Garba nights.

Navaratri Day 3

Colour:  Grey

Jewellery: Gemstone Jewellery

A grey saree brings understated elegance and sophistication to your Navaratri wardrobe. The neutral tone of grey allows you to experiment with bold, colourful jewellery while maintaining a chic, minimalist appearance.

Jewellery Choice: Pair the soft tones of a grey saree with gemstone jewellery that adds a pop of colour. Choose gemstones like emeralds, rubies, or sapphires set in delicate designs to add a touch of glamour to your outfit while keeping it sophisticated.

Styling Tip: Opt for a gemstone choker paired with drop earrings and a matching bracelet for a refined look. Style your hair in soft curls or a sleek bun to let the jewellery take centre stage. This combination is perfect for formal evening events or elegant gatherings.

Navaratri Day 4

Colour:  Orange

Jewellery: Emerald and Diamond Jewellery

A vibrant orange silk saree or Kanchipuram saree is the perfect canvas for showcasing rich, bold jewellery. Orange is an energetic and celebratory colour that stands out in any festive gathering. This shade brings warmth and a sense of joy, making it ideal for daytime celebrations or grand evening events.

Jewellery Choice: Pairing orange with emerald and diamond jewellery creates a stunning contrast. The deep, lush green of the emeralds pops beautifully against the fiery tones of orange, while the diamonds add a subtle sparkle that balances the overall look. Emeralds are known for their regal charm, and when combined with diamonds, they create an ensemble that’s both luxurious and festive.

Styling Tip: Opt for a multi-layered emerald and diamond necklace, with matching earrings and bangles, to add grandeur to your outfit. For hairstyles, consider a low bun adorned with flowers to highlight the neckline or soft waves to frame your face and let the earrings shine. This jewellery and saree combination is perfect for Navaratri and any other evening events like a family gathering, pooja, or a special festive dinner.

Navaratri Day 5

Colour:  White

Jewellery: Ruby Jewellery Set

When paired with a white lehenga or saree, a ruby jewellery set becomes the centrepiece of your outfit. The purity and elegance of white serve as a perfect backdrop for the vibrant richness of rubies, making this combination a timeless classic for festive occasions.

Jewellery Choice: A ruby choker necklace with intricate detailing, combined with matching ruby earrings and a bold cocktail ring, adds a regal touch to your white ensemble. The deep red of the rubies contrasts beautifully against the neutral tones of white, while the hint of emeralds provides an added pop of colour.

Styling Tip: Let the ruby jewellery take centre stage by keeping your makeup understated with soft, neutral tones. Opt for simple, sleek hair to highlight the choker and add minimal bangles to complete the look. This combination is perfect for a festive evening where elegance meets tradition.

Navaratri Day 6

Colour:  Red

Jewellery: Peacock-designed Diamond Jewellery

A traditional red Kanchipuram saree is synonymous with Indian festivals, symbolising auspiciousness and celebration. The richness of red coupled with intricate zari work brings a regal touch to your festive look, making it perfect for Navaratri.

Styling Tip: Pair a peacock-designed diamond necklace with matching earrings and a bracelet for a cohesive look. For a traditional touch, style your hair in a sleek bun adorned with flowers. This ensemble is perfect for poojas, family gatherings, and Navaratri celebrations where you want to exude both grace and grandeur.

Jewellery Choice: Enhance your outfit with peacock-designed diamond jewellery, which adds a unique, artistic flair. The combination of diamonds and peacock motifs brings together tradition and elegance, perfectly complementing the richness of a red saree.

Navaratri Day 7

Colour:  Royal Blue

Jewellery: Ruby and Emerald Jewellery

A deep blue saree is a symbol of grace and tranquillity, perfect for grand Navaratri events or festive gatherings. The richness of blue allows for vibrant jewellery choices that elevate your look while staying true to the celebratory spirit of the occasion.

Jewellery Choice: Ruby and emerald jewellery creates a striking contrast against the deep tones of a blue saree. The lush green of emeralds paired with the fiery red of rubies makes the jewellery stand out, giving you a royal and festive appearance.

Styling Tip: Pair a ruby and emerald necklace with matching earrings and bangles to complete the look. Keep your hair in a bun or styled waves to highlight the neckline and enhance the elegance of the ensemble. This look is perfect for evening celebrations, Garba nights, or traditional family events.

Navaratri Day 8

Colour:  Pink

Jewellery: Diamond and Pink Ruby Jewellery

A bright pink silk saree or Banarasi saree is a festive favourite, exuding femininity and grace. The rich pink shade is both playful and elegant, making it a perfect choice for celebrations like Navaratri. Pink brings out a youthful charm and works beautifully for both day and night functions, ensuring you stand out while maintaining a sophisticated look.

Jewellery Choice: Diamond jewellery adds a touch of class and refinement to a vibrant pink saree. Diamonds are timeless, and their subtle sparkle pairs effortlessly with the boldness of pink. A diamond choker necklace with matching earrings offers the right balance of simplicity and luxury, allowing you to shine without overpowering the beauty of your saree.

Styling Tip: Opt for a diamond choker with matching drop earrings for a sophisticated look. To add a touch of glamour, you can also incorporate a delicate diamond bracelet or bangles. Style your hair in soft waves or a half-up, half-down style to highlight the necklace while keeping the look graceful. A soft pink or nude lip colour complements the diamonds perfectly. 

Navaratri Day 9

Colour:  Purple

Jewellery: Jadau Jewellery

A rich purple silk saree is a showstopper for any festive occasion. Purple embodies royalty and sophistication, making it a striking choice for Navaratri events. Whether for evening gatherings or special occasions, purple sarees add a regal touch to your festive wardrobe.

Jewellery Choice: The luxurious Jadau necklace pairs beautifully with a purple saree, creating a look that’s both royal and festive. Jadau jewellery, known for its intricate craftsmanship and embedded precious stones, adds depth and character to your outfit.

Styling Tip: Choose a heavy Jadau necklace with matching earrings and bangles for a grand appearance. Style your hair in soft waves or a braided updo to complement the richness of the saree and highlight the jewellery. This look is perfect for evening Garba or grand family functions

Celebrate the Festive Season with VBJ: Elevate Your Navaratri Look

This Navaratri, let VBJ (Vummidi Bangaru Jewellers) help you shine brighter with our meticulously crafted jewellery that celebrates both tradition and elegance. From intricate temple jewellery to contemporary diamond pieces, we offer a wide range of designs that perfectly complement each day’s festive colours. Whether you’re looking to pair a traditional Kanchipuram saree with a bold kasu malai necklace or enhance your lehenga with modern gemstone sets, VBJ has something for every style.

Our heritage of over 120 years ensures that each piece reflects the finest craftsmanship, making VBJ a trusted name in fine jewellery. Celebrate this Navaratri with timeless elegance and find the perfect jewellery to complete your festive look. With VBJ, your Navaratri ensemble will not only be stylish but also a beautiful reflection of your personal tradition.

Summing Up

Navaratri is not just a time for devotion and tradition; it’s also the perfect occasion to experiment with vibrant colours and gorgeous jewellery. Each day offers a unique opportunity to celebrate your style, blending traditional outfits with jewellery that complements the symbolic hues. From antique gold to minimalist rose gold, from ruby and emerald combinations to luxurious tanzanite, the right jewellery can truly elevate your festive look. Whether you’re dancing at Garba nights, attending poojas, or visiting loved ones, let your jewellery tell a story that resonates with the spirit of Navaratri.

FAQs Related To Complete Navaratri Style Guide

1. What are the 9 colours of Navaratri, and how are they chosen?

The nine colours of Navaratri change each year based on the weekday Navaratri starts and are associated with the nine forms of Goddess Durga. Each colour represents a specific quality: joy, power, compassion, and purity. Wearing these colours is a way of honouring the goddess and invoking those qualities during the festival.

2. How can I style jewellery for a traditional saree during Navaratri?

When wearing a traditional saree, such as a Kanchipuram or Banarasi, opt for heavier, classic jewellery like gold temple designs, kasu malai, or navaratna sets. These pieces pair well with the rich textures and colours of traditional sarees, giving you a regal and culturally rooted appearance. Keep your hairstyle and makeup simple to let the jewellery stand out.

3. Can I wear contemporary jewellery with a traditional outfit?

Yes! Mixing contemporary jewellery with traditional outfits is a great way to modernise your look while maintaining a festive vibe. For example, a rose gold pendant necklace or a minimalist diamond bracelet can add a sophisticated touch to a silk saree or lehenga. It’s all about balance – keep one element (the outfit or the jewellery) traditional while experimenting with the other.

4. What’s the best way to match jewellery with a lehenga for Garba or Dandiya?

For Garba or Dandiya nights, where movement and vibrancy are key, opt for lightweight yet striking jewellery. Jadau or Kundan sets work well with colourful lehengas. Avoid long necklaces that might interfere with dancing, and instead, go for chokers, statement earrings, and bangles that add sparkle without weighing you down.

5. How do I choose the right gemstones for each Navaratri day?

Each day of Navaratri is associated with a specific colour, and you can enhance your outfit by choosing gemstones that match or contrast with that colour. For example, ruby and emerald for yellow, diamonds for white, or tanzanite for royal blue. Gemstones like these not only add a vibrant touch to your look but also carry symbolic meanings that align with the festival’s spiritual significance.