Happy Diwali! 2020 needs a bit of light and although celebrations won’t be as grand as last year @itsshradha and @iamsapra still plan to go all out! Showcasing their handpicked Diwali edits for that guaranteed fire fit, we chatted to them about how they’ll be celebrating this year and, of course, what they’ll be wearing. Take a look …
Shradha
Tell us a bit about yourself …
My name is Shradha and I’m a fashion & lifestyle blogger based in London. Blogging is my outlet for my creative side as I also work in finance.
Why do you celebrate Diwali?
Diwali is an important occasion for Hindus as it symbolizes the spiritual 'victory of light over darkness' and 'good over evil'.
Can you explain what the Diwali celebration is about for those that don’t know?
Diwali is the festival of lights, celebrated by Hindu's all over the world. It is usually celebrated by decorating your home, lighting candles and fireworks, eating and performing religious ceremonies.
What’s your favourite thing about the celebration?
The amazing colours and lights, spending time with my family, and eating lots of hearty food!
Have you already planned your look? Tell us everything!
YES! Before the announcement of lockdown 2.0, I was planning to celebrate in 3 different ways and one tradition that we have is to wear new clothes over the celebrations. Firstly, I had planned a boozy brunch with friends wearing jeans, a crop top and a jacket. Secondly, a dinner with my family in a black crop top and trousers. Lastly, was a dinner with my partner's family, and that outfit was going to be the beautiful blue dress.
How are your 2020 Diwali plans different from previous years?
Well, last year the boozy brunch would have been a night out, the meals would have been the same but there would have been an extra event which would have been a Diwali ball. However now due to lockdown, we will be having a nice meal at home.
Talk us through your fave pieces from your Diwali edit. Why did you pick them and what was your inspiration?
My favourite piece is definitely the blue dress. It is perfect for Diwali as it is bright and colourful. The black-on-black outfit you can never go wrong with, and both pieces are key wardrobe staples.
Raja
Tell us a bit about yourself …
My name is Raja Sapra. I’m 24 years old and I’m a model and fashion content creator from London city!
Why do you celebrate Diwali?
So, as a Sikh, I celebrate Bandhi Chhor Divas which also happens to be on the same day as Diwali.
The day is known as Bandhi Chhor Divas (Prisoner Release Day) because 52 imprisoned princes (Bandhi) were released (Chhor) by him on this day (Divas). It is celebrated by both Sikhs and Hindus.
What’s your favourite thing about the celebration?
The best part is going to the Gurdwara (Sikh temple) and lighting up the candles. Even though it’s such a small part of the day, it’s something everyone looks forward too, no matter your age. Some people say you’re meant to make a wish when lighting up the candle, so I guess that’s why. It’s a festival we’ve all been grown up doing and looking forward to. Oh, and of course, the fireworks at the end of the night. How could I forget?!
Have you already planned your look? Tell us everything!
I have indeed. As we’ll be staying home this year, I’m going for a comfy yet smart look. I’m going to pair up the blue blocked turtleneck with some fresh new navy chinos. Simple but effective.
How are your 2020 Diwali plans different from previous years?
Unfortunately, it’s very different this year. The current lockdown means that we can’t really go to the Gurdwara. However, we’ll still be doing the same traditions we usually do. Praying, having a meal with the fam, fireworks and of course lighting the candles. A lot of zoom calls will be going down to catch up with other members of the family.
Talk us through your fave pieces from your Diwali edit. Why did you pick them and what was your inspiration?
My favourite piece of the edit is the Grey suede jacket. Not only is it a statement piece but the quality of the jacket is absolutely amazing. For me, quality is the main thing when investing in some new pieces, especially for Diwali and that’s why River Island is my current fave.
I’m also a sucker for a good Chelsea boots, these brown ones are my faves. They’re stylish butalso nice and warm so perfect for this time of the year. Pair them up with some black jeans and a black t-shirt alongside some jewellery and you, my friend, are good to go.
Ready to light up 2020?