Let Genelia Deshmukh Show You How to Let Your Dupatta Do The Talking This Festive Season

For Ganesh Chaturthi, Genelia Deshmukh skipped predictable reds and stepped out in a rich chocolate-brown lehenga by Aamra by Lavanya. Styled by Who Wore What When, the look paired a Banarasi chanderi lehenga with zari stripes and a blouse to match, but the real scene-stealer was the dupatta.

Hand-painted using the traditional pen kalamkari technique, the silk drape placed over the shoulder even turned the outfit into something more layered and intentional. 

The kalamkari dupatta was on pure silk and finished with pitta and sequin hand embroidery. Each motif, birds, vines, petals, was drawn with a bamboo nib and coloured with natural dyes.  Genelia finished her look with layered silver jewellery by Fine Silver Jewels Jaipur and peach-toned makeup paired with kohl-rimmed eyes and a red raindrop bindi. 

If you’re building your own festive wardrobe, Genelia’s look is a cue, let the dupatta be ‘the fit’. Pair a neutral lehenga with a craft-heavy stole, whether that’s kalamkari, bandhani, phulkari, or ajrakh, and you instantly have an heirloom-worthy statement. Think of it as investing in one standout piece that you can re-style for years.

Shop These Dupattas To Elevate Your Look This Festive and Wedding Season

Hotpink Floral Tilla Embroidery Odhni by Sheetal Batra

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An intricate Kashmiri tilla-embroidered piece that requires over 32 hours to complete. The metallic threads catch the light beautifully, making it perfect for evening festivities or wedding functions. Its vibrant hot pink hue adds a playful yet opulent touch, and the piece is designed to be passed down as a family heirloom.

Maheshwari Silk Hand-Painted Kalamkari Dupatta by Jaypore

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Crafted from the Maheshwari silk, this dupatta is hand-painted using traditional Kalamkari techniques. Each floral and vine motif is drawn meticulously with a bamboo nib and natural dyes. Pair it with a neutral lehenga or pastel bridal set to let the artistry take centre stage.

Solapadma Dupatta by Divya Sheth

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A deep purple chanderi dupatta hand-embroidered with delicate motifs, ideal for festive occasions. The lightweight silk drape moves gracefully, adding fluidity to structured lehengas. Perfect for pairing with jewel-toned ensembles, it elevates even simple outfits into statement couture.

Ajrakh Bandhini Hand Block Printed Dupatta by Amounee

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This artisanal dupatta combines traditional Ajrakh block printing with Bandhini tie-dye techniques. Handmade with care, slight irregularities in the weave and print are a hallmark of its authenticity. Earthy tones and geometric patterns make it versatile for pairing with both muted and vibrant lehengas.

Red Pure Organza Silk & Handwoven Kimkhwaab Tissue Dupatta by Ohfab (Aanchal & Akshita)

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A statement piece in pure organza silk with a delicate handwoven Kimkhwaab tissue border. Lightweight yet structured, it drapes elegantly over festive or bridal lehengas. Its sheer texture allows layering over embellished outfits without overwhelming the look, making it perfect for contemporary couture styling.

Sheesh Pushida Veil by Irth

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An intricate statement veil featuring mirror tassels bound into a shimmering jaal, each piece hand-assembled by skilled artisans. Ideal for bridal glamour or festive celebrations, as it adds height, sparkle, and a tactile luxury to any lehenga. Wear it draped over the head or shoulders to instantly elevate your ensemble.