Looking to buy traditional Indian clothes for Deepavali or a special occasion? We check out the best spots to buy all kinds of Indian dress from kurtis to lehengas for kids and adults in Singapore
Deepavalithe Indian Festival of Lights is almost here (24 October 2022) and whether your child has a special celebration at school, or your family is looking to celebrate at home it’s a fun reason to upgrade your Indian dress or buy traditional Indian clothing for your kids! Deepavali is the biggest Indian festival of the year and it’s tradition to wear shiny new clothes for this important celebration. Ready to get shopping? First, let’s take a look at what the different Indian clothes consist of and where to find all kinds of Indian dress in town and online!
Psssst! If celebrating Deepavali is not part of your culture but you still wish to take part in the festivities and wear traditional Indian clothing, it is important to do so respectfully with an understanding of the culture.
↓ Scroll down for all the best spots to buy traditional Indian dress in Singapore!
Traditional Indian Dress for Girls

When it comes to traditional Indian clothes for girls, you have two options:
Salwar Kameez – drawstring or elastic pants with a long tunic top. This Indian outfit often comes with a dupatta (shawl), which is usually better suited (and easier to handle) for older girls.
Lehenga Choli – The lehenga is a long flared skirt with a top (can be a crop top style or longer) and is usually completed with a shawl.
Traditional Indian Clothes for Boys

For boys, depending on the event, you can buy a silk or cotton kurta (tunic), which can be worn with jeans, pants or matching pyjama pants. A lot of the newer styles feature a nice little waistcoat style jacket to wear over the tunic.
Read More: Wearing Indian Clothing if You Aren’t Indian: Appropriation or Appreciation?
What to look for when buying Indian fashion
Whatever you opt for, make sure the little ones are comfortable, and the clothes fit well (snug but not too tight). Indian clothing often has embroidery and beaded threadwork – make sure this is not poking your kids (boys could also wear a soft t-shirt under their kurta, for example), and that they have had a chance to get used to their new clothes before the big day! Go ahead and buy some bangle bracelets for the girls (the Deepavali Bazaar on Campbell Lane has gorgeous ones) along with a sparkly hair accessory. Open-toe sandals are perfect to complete the look.
Places to Buy Traditional Indian Dress in Singapore
1. Nimbu: circular Indian clothing for kids

A homegrown brand based in Singapore, Nimbu specialises in vibrant, hand-crafted, and sustainably made kids’ products from premium cotton clothing to toys and accessories for kids aged 0-14. They also do luxuriously soft Bamboo cotton rompers and swaddles for babies, organic cotton dresses, shirts, and PJs, gorgeous Indian clothing like Kurtas and Jacket sets for boys, Kurti and Lehenga skirt sets for girls, all in breathable premium cotton, perfect for Singapore’s hot and humid weather. What we love about the brand is its circular concept. Any purchase made on Nimbu.sg can be returned in exchange for credits that can offset your next purchase! Returned items are added to the Pre-loved collection, giving them a new lease of life. Nimbu offers same-day and next-day delivery options too. Look out for unique gift box options for the upcoming festive season comprising an eclectic mix of Indian clothing, toys and accessories for babies and kids! Follow them on Instagram @nimbukids for sales, giveaways and updates!
Use Sassymama5 for 5% off and guaranteed 2-day shipping!
Nimbu, www.nimbu.sg
2. Little Muffet: Affordable Indian kids’ clothes

This online store has an incredibly huge and affordably priced selection of Indian kids’ clothes. They ship to most countries but the traditional outfits are made to order so expect a little bit of waiting time (2-3 weeks) before you receive your order of Indian clothes to Singapore.www.littlemuffet.com
3. Angkara: Indian clothing at Tekka Place
Head over to Tekka Place to shop Indian outfits at Angkara. There’s a range of Indian apparel and accessories plus a kids section with kurtas and other outfits.Angkara, #01-30, Tekka Place, Singapore 218227
4. Fabindia Singapore: Indian festive clothing
Fabindia is an Indian fashion brand that is much loved by Indians worldwide for its excellent quality, variety and colourful designs. The store at Vivocity has a good selection of traditional Indian outfits and festive clothing for both boys and girls from ages 2 to 14! While the price ranges are higher (starting at $29 for infants, $56 for boys and $61 for girls’ outfits) than most of the Little India stores, the styles are more contemporary and the quality of the fabric is good.Fabindia, #01-141 VivoCity, 1 Harbourfront Walk, Singapore
5. Fashion Palace: Indian clothing in Little India

Tucked along colourful Buffalo Road in Little India, Fashion Palace has an entire floor for Indian dress and kids’ clothing (on the second level). You’ll find beautiful prints in cotton, brocade and silk in the form of jackets, kurta, dresses, lehenga, and suits. Whether it’s for an Indian wedding or a special occasion like Deepavali, Fashion Palace offers plenty of traditional Indian costumes for the little ones. Prices start from $15. Fashion Palace, 8 Buffalo Road, Singapore, Tel: (+65) 6295 1175,
6. Fayon Kids: Indian dress ships from India

This Delhi-based children’s clothing boutique makes the most exquisite Indian kids’ clothes for girls and boys, and luckily for us mamas, they ship worldwide! The stunning traditional Indian clothes are perfect for a fancy Deepavali celebration or even an Indian wedding!Fayon Kids Indian Clothing
7. Forty Red Bangles: Indian clothing ships from India
Forty Red Bangles is a socially conscious brand stocking traditional Indian outfits as part of their sustainable luxury line of clothing, accessories and homeware. Based in India so do take into account international shipping times if you order.Forty Red Bangles,
8. Indya: Huge variety of Indian dress online
Indya is a name that comes up a lot when you are looking for Indian clothing online. Indya has a staggering variety of Indian clothing from women’s outfits, to ethnic wear tops and accessories. The shipping charges on all orders to Singapore, irrespective of order size are $20 and you’ll need to allow up to 2 weeks to receive your order.Indya
9. Jaypore: Indian outfits and accessories online

Jaypore is a multi-label online store with beautiful Indian dress from handmade sarees and dupattas to jewellery, shawls, home decor, art and more. Plus of course, a great kids section of traditional Indian clothing to add to your cart for Deepavali! There is free shipping on orders above $100.Jaypore
10. Jinder’s: Contemporary Indian clothing & Indian dress

Looking for new Indian clothes for yourself? Jinder’s stocks some gorgeous traditional, and contemporary Indian clothing and Indian dresses for women plus occasion wear (plus sizes available too). Check out Jinder’s variety of kurtis, kaftans and other Indian clothes plus Indian jewellery and accessories to match. Sign up for Jinder’s newsletter and get 10% off your next Deepavali clothing order!
Jinder’s, 153 A Selegie Road, Singapore
11. College Collection: Indian clothing with staff to help

If you are looking for choices and help when hunting down the perfect Indian clothes…this is your store! The sales staff is very helpful and they can even help find traditional outfits for you and your kids to match! The in-house tailor will ensure the perfect fit for your little one. The trendy little ‘suits’ – aka embellished top and ‘Shimmer and Shine’ style flared pants- will have your little lady all excited for Deepavali celebrations. They have a lot of very traditional Indian clothes here as well as lots of fun contemporary Indian outfits. PS: don’t shop here on a Sunday – way too crowded!College Collection, 125 Serangoon Road, Singapore
12. Minora Centre: Indian outfits & festive wear

Minora Centre located on Serangoon Road has Indian outfits for adults and children as well as a range of festive Indian partywear for kids. You’ll find a range of Indian kids’ clothes in various colours and detail-work, including Lehenga sets, Kurtas, Salwar Kameez and Achkans. Indian dress prices start from $30.Minora Centre, 202 Serangoon Road, Singapore
13. Mustafa Centre: Indian clothing at a cheap price
Is there anything you can’t find at Mustafa(open 24 hours)?! The Indian kids’ clothes section here tucked away in B1 is not the most contemporary or top quality Indian fashion wear, but if you are looking for something that your child will wear only once, and if you aren’t looking to spend a lot, this is a good option. Don’t expect any sales assistance — it’s a bit like rummaging through a sales bin here. The prices are low, though!Mustafa Centre, 145 Syed Alwi Road, Level B1, Little India, Singapore
Read more: Ultimate Guide to Mustafa Centre (+ a downloadable map!)
14. Pinklay: online Indian clothing

Pinklay is an online store offering the most gorgeous colourful Indian kids’ wear (as well as traditional Indian outfits for adults and homeware). We love how this brand engages with Indian artisans using traditional art forms including hand block printing, embroidery and patchwork using pure fabrics and keeping away from all synthetic materials, leather, and plastic. Pinklay stocks kurtas, lehangas, kaftans, pyjama sets, Indian dress and other traditional wear.Pinklay,
15. PurpleTulsi: Indian dress

Online store PurpleTulsi has a huge range of Indian dresses, Indian clothing for kids and traditional garments that can be bought online and delivered to your door. PurpleTulsi offers free exchange and returns (including pickup) if your Indian clothing does not fit.PurpleTulsi
16. Tekka Market Block 665: Indian outfits

Don’t be put off shopping at Tekka Market! Take the escalator up one level from the Serangoon Road entrance and you will find a huge number of shops selling Indian outfits. Not all the stores carry kids’ clothes, though but you could tryRose Fashions (#02-119), Fiza Bollywood Fashion (02-143), Piya Store (02-149) and Sameer Saniyya (02-110). Traditional Indian clothing for boys and girls of all ages start from about $30, depending on what you’re looking for. The shops’ sales staff are super helpful and can work with your budget (don’t be afraid to bargain!). There are also several tailors around if you need any minor alterations done to your lehenga or kurtis.
Read more: Top 10 Stalls at Tekka Market
If you are looking for a one-off Indian outfit for your child to wear for a school Deepavali celebration you can also try your luck looking on second-hand clothing sites like Carousell.
We can’t wait to see your kids dressed up in traditional Indian clothing this Deepavali – tag us on IG, won’t you?
Read more:
FAQs
What is a traditional Indian gown called? ›
The Saree/Sari is the most traditional Indian dress and is thought to have originated as early as 2800 BC in the Indus Valley. In Sanskrit, it translates to “strip of fabric” which makes sense when you consider that most Saree's are between 6-8 yard of fabric!
Which Indian traditional dress is best? ›The saree (also sari or shari) is the most representative traditional clothing of the Indian subcontinent. It consists of a drape that can be from 4.5 meters to 8 meters long, and about 1 meter wide. It is usually wrapped around the waist, with one end covering one shoulder and baring the midriff.
What is the traditional clothing for an Indian female called? ›A saree or sari is a female garment in the Indian subcontinent. A sari is a strip of unstitched cloth, ranging from four to nine meters in length, that is draped over the body in various styles.
Which dress is best for Indian girls? ›Traditional Indian Dresses
Sarees: Sarees are the most popular garment for Indian women and have remained so to date.
Like the salwar kameez—salwar is the type of loose pant, and kameez is the shirt: Saris are prevalent for everyday wear in the southern part of the country, while salwar kameez are more common in the north, Khaire says.
What is a two piece Indian dress called? ›Rajesh: A Salwar kameez is one of the most preferred pieces of Indian ethnic wear, due to its style and versatility. It consists of two pieces: the kameez, a long tunic-style top that reaches the knees, and the salwar, loose-fitting pants that taper at the ankle.
How do you look good in a traditional dress? ›- Know about your outfit in Indian traditional dress. ...
- Choose quality fabric for Indian traditional dress. ...
- Go with statement jewelry in Indian traditional dress. ...
- Pick the right accessories for Indian traditional dress.
- Keep those Earrings On. One of the best things about Indian earrings is that they are usually very ornate and beautiful. ...
- Enjoy with Fabrics. ...
- Choose Trendy Bottoms. ...
- Clutch that Trendy Vibe. ...
- Get a New Haircut.
- Cover your shoulders, cleavage and thighs.
- Avoid wearing thin spaghetti strap tops, mini-skirts or shorts, and tight clothing – tight jeans are fine, as long as you wear a long, loose top or shirt over them.
Light: Pastel hues and softer tones such as lilac and baby blue work in most situations. Avoid cream and beige as they might make you appear tired and dull. Medium: Think tropical colours such as teal, saffron and dusty rose. Avoid neons.
How to look classy Indian woman? ›
The first and foremost is you must dress up as per your body shape. Don't wear clothes which are too tight or too loose for your body. Opt for dresses that better suits you; don't always follow the designers blindly. You must wear proper undergarments to make you look good.
What color should I wear to an Indian wedding? ›As a guest at an Indian wedding, you are encouraged to wear bright and colorful clothes. Vibrant blue, mint green, orange, and bright pink are good choices of colors. The only color you should avoid is red since the bride would be wearing red at one of the main events.
What is the difference between kameez and kurta? ›SHALWAR KAMEEZ IS TRADITIONAL AND CULTURAL ATTIRE WHILE KURTA IS AN ALTERED SHAPE OF IT. SHALWAR KAMEEZ LOOKS LIKE AN AMPLE AND ELEGANT COSTUME. BUT KURTA IS A KIND OF DRESS WITH TIGHT PAJAMAS AND A SHIRT.
What are Indian pants called? ›dhoti, long loincloth traditionally worn in southern Asia by Hindu men. Wrapped around the hips and thighs with one end brought between the legs and tucked into the waistband, the dhoti resembles baggy, knee- length trousers.
Which Indian outfit makes you look slim? ›Tip-2: Avoid heavy dresses
To look slim in Indian outfits, you need to avoid heavy dresses. Meaning, select dresses made from light fabrics such as crepe and cotton. Generally, Indian dresses are made of heavier stuff. These tend to add bulk to your body frame and make you look a bit chubby.
Urvashi Rautela in Rs 37 crore dress
She wore a dress made of fine gold for a film in Dubai and that dress had cost USD 5 million, which comes to around Rs 37 crore.
Dressing up as a Native American is never appropriate. For years, classrooms across the country have included special days where students "dress up" as Native Americans for different celebrations and lesson activities. Often, the outfits people wear to look "Indian" have nothing to do with Native people and cultures.
What is salwar kameez called in English? ›by Ho, Stephanie. The salwar (also spelt shalwar) kameez, popularly known as the Punjabi suit, is the traditional dress of women in the Punjab region of northwestern India and eastern Pakistan.
Is kurta Indian or Pakistani? ›While the women in India wear sarees, the women in Pakistan wear a long kurta which can be worn with a salwar, known as the Pakistani salwar kameez. In order to complete the traditional Pakistani look, the kurtas are either worn with a dupatta and abaya or with a coat.
What is the traditional Indian wife? ›In traditional Indian families, women are expected to take on the stereotypical role of the wife — meaning she should take care of the husband, the kids, the house, and she should know her way around the kitchen. While the man does cook a bit, the wife will be the one prepping the majority of the dishes.
What is an Indian top and skirt called? ›
Salwar Kameez
Salwar Kameez is to Indian fashion what rice is to Indian food – a staple; or, it has become so over the years. This traditional dress of India, as the name goes, is a standard set of a top, bottom, and a dupatta.
Indian tunics can also be called kurtis or kurtas. Indian women have been wearing them as part of the salwar kameez outfit for many centuries, but it is only in the last decade that the trend of wearing 'tunics' with different types of outfits have gained prominence.
How to dress attractively as a lady? ›- Wear well-fitting clothes. ...
- Choose the right colors. ...
- Add elegant layers. ...
- Show off your best features. ...
- Don't overcomplicate your outfits. ...
- Wear classic and timeless pieces. ...
- Stay away from trends. ...
- Know your fashion style.
The dress code in India for tourists and meaningful travelers plays fast and loose. Dressing modestly means not showing all of your curves or muscles. To be respectful and ward off any unwanted attention, pack loose-fitting clothes.
Why are Indian dresses so beautiful? ›The fabrics that are usually used to make Indian dresses are cotton, fluid silk, or tissue silk, which do not cling to the body giving off a vulgar or an over-the-top look. Rather, they add up more volume and enhance the natural curves of your body in just the right places, giving off an exotic appearance.
Which shoes to wear in India? ›- Be sure to have some good sturdy shoes with you since your feet will get dusty and dirty (try Hotter shoes, they are incredibly comfortable and look great too).
- It's best to avoid high heels, flat sandals will do just fine.
Its a personal choice, no will will mind if you wear shorts anywhere except at religious places like temples and mosques. Its very hot in Delhi now, so dress for comfort. However some hotels and resturants may have dress codes so it depends on where you are going.
What should I wear in flight from India to USA? ›Breathable tops
When choosing what to wear on a plane, look for stylish tops made with natural fabrics, such as cotton, silk, wool or linen, which will allow air and moisture to pass through. Moisture-wicking man-made fabrics are an equally savvy option.
2. What are the best hair colors for Indian skin? The best hair colors for Indian skin tone are shades of brown, red and burgundy. Although it's been a crowd-puller for years, we'd recommend you avoid the golden hair shade if you have pale skin.
What hair color looks best on Indians? ›The best colour combination for Indian skin tone has to be an amalgamation of plum and light brown. Adding hints of plum hair colour to light brown coloured hair will amp up your look and create magic.
Which skin tone is most attractive in India? ›
Fair complexion is beautiful in India.
Who is considered the most beautiful Indian woman? ›Urvashi Rautela, the most beautiful girl in India who also occurred to have represented our country at the 2015 Miss Universe pageant, is renowned for being the most beautiful girl in the country. She is a well-known actress and model.
What is considered pretty in India? ›The ideal Indian woman is fair or medium-complexioned, has a narrow waist but wider hips and breasts, and has large eyes, full red lips, and long black hair that is either straight or wavy.
What is beautiful in Indian culture? ›As the ideal Indian woman has been medium-complexioned, she has large eyes, a narrow waist but wider hips and breasts, long black hair, and full red lips as this beauty ideal or at least some proportion of these standards have managed to last in India for centuries.
Which is the most famous traditional dress? ›The kimono is one of the better-known traditional dresses from around the world since it has appeared extensively in fashion and popular media.
What is appropriate dress in India? ›Both men and women travelers should have pants and avoid tank tops as clothes to wear in India. In India, attire for women (if you really want to look like a local) includes long skirts that go down to the ankle instead of pants. While T-shirts are acceptable, always err on the side of modesty.
How to look classy in Indian dress? ›- Keep those Earrings On. One of the best things about Indian earrings is that they are usually very ornate and beautiful. ...
- Enjoy with Fabrics. ...
- Choose Trendy Bottoms. ...
- Clutch that Trendy Vibe. ...
- Get a New Haircut.
Switzerland. Switzerland, officially called the Swiss Confederation, is a small country in Central Europe made up of 16,000 square miles of glacier-carved Alps, lakes and valleys.
Which country has the most beautiful dress in the world? ›France is a leading country in the fashion design along with Italy, Germany, UK, Japan and USA. 3 India India, officially the Republic of India, is a country in South Asia.
Which country has the most traditional dresses? ›1. Traditional dress of India – Sari or Saree. India is a country with many sub-cultures and traditions.
What is the oldest dress in the world? ›
The Tarkhan Dress, named for the Tarkhan cemetery south of Cairo in Egypt where it was excavated in 1913, is an over 5000 year old linen garment that was confirmed as the world's oldest piece of women's clothing.
What is the oldest traditional clothes in the world? ›The world's oldest woven garment, called the Tarkhan Dress, probably fell past the knees originally. At 5,100 to 5,500 years old, it dates to the dawn of the kingdom of Egypt.
What is the traditional dress of USA? ›While Americans' diverse cultural roots are reflected in their clothing, particularly those of recent immigrants, cowboy hats, boots, jeans, and leather motorcycle jackets are emblematic of specifically American styles.
Is it OK to wear an Indian costume? ›Dressing up as a Native American is never appropriate. For years, classrooms across the country have included special days where students "dress up" as Native Americans for different celebrations and lesson activities. Often, the outfits people wear to look "Indian" have nothing to do with Native people and cultures.
Should you wear sandals in India? ›Shoes to pack for India
Be sure to have some good sturdy shoes with you since your feet will get dusty and dirty (try Hotter shoes, they are incredibly comfortable and look great too). It's best to avoid high heels, flat sandals will do just fine.
- Be selective in your choice.
- Explore trending outfits.
- Take care of the fabric you chose.
- Shop as per your body type.
- Go for Indo western fusion.
- Fitting.
- Accessorize.