For Diwali 2026, NRI men in the USA should lean on kurta sets or bandhgalas for temple visits, sherwanis or Nehru jacket combos for office parties, and festive kurtas with layered blazers for outdoor or cold-weather events. Stick to jewel tones like maroon, mustard, and deep blue, and pair everything with juttis, loafers, or clean sneakers depending on the setting.
Diwali in America means juggling three different dress codes in the same week: the office party, the temple aarti, and the family dinner where your aunt will definitely comment on your outfit. Here's how to get each one right without overthinking it.
What should men wear to an office Diwali party in the US?
Office parties call for something festive but not over the top. A well-tailored kurta set with a Nehru jacket on top hits that sweet spot. It reads as celebratory without looking like you walked in from a wedding.
Stick to solid colors or subtle prints. A navy or maroon kurta with a contrasting bandi jacket works across most office settings, from a casual Friday vibe to a slightly dressier evening event. Pair it with loafers rather than juttis if the venue leans corporate.
What's the best outfit for temple visits during Diwali?
Temples call for simplicity and comfort, since you're likely sitting cross-legged for a while. A classic cotton or silk kurta pajama in lighter shades like cream, mustard, or soft gold feels appropriate and breathable.
Skip anything too embellished or heavy. Juttis are the natural choice here, both for comfort and because they slip on and off easily (useful when temple etiquette requires removing your shoes).
What should you wear to a family Diwali dinner?
This is where you can have the most fun. A bandhgala or a sherwani with detailing works well for a family gathering, especially if there's a Lakshmi puja involved. If you want something less formal, a bundigala (a short, structured jacket worn over a kurta) adds festive polish without the full sherwani commitment.
Choose fabrics like silk or brocade for texture, and don't shy away from richer colors like deep green, wine, or burgundy.
Which colors work best for Diwali outfits this year?
Jewel tones are trending for Diwali 2026: think emerald, sapphire, maroon, and mustard. These shades photograph well under string lights and diyas, and they work across skin tones better
