am a minimalist at heart and nothing rules like white in my wardrobe. My fashion mantra has always been less is more, simple is best; often migrating to super fluid white kurta sets for women and tunics. It has been my go-to colour; makes me feel good so why change it when it comes to occasions like Diwali, Raksha Bandhan and weddings?

Growing up, I was well aware of the bright colour palette of the Indian festival/wedding etiquette, but my rebellious internal fashionista was desperate to make a point. Why could I not be allowed to wear an unmistakably elegant kurta set for women regardless of colour?

I must admit I have always been a bit of a colourphobe. After living close to 8 years as an adopted Londoner; accustomed to grey skies I have forgotten how to wear colour.

Suffice to say over the years in a sea of bold colours at myriad such Indian social events, I have made many an ivory monotone faux pas and felt utterly fabulous doing it. I am not trying to challenge century’s old customs and or mindsets; perhaps just trying to see the world from my played down aesthetic.

White for me is the purest of hues; mitigating away from the traditional characterization of the Indian design as limited to the palette of pinks, reds and oranges with over the top paraphernalia; especially in relation to kurta sets for women.

Imli razorback kurta set for women from my maiden collection is one such example. It stemmed from my desire of articulating a pared-back Indian design in soft ivory velvet.

I have always been quite aware of the chicness of an all-white outfit. It is timeless, effortless, and makes you feel put together and confident. The colour is never going to go out, and it almost always looks great on warmer South Asian skin tones.

Although monotone looks do have the currency in my style book; I often look to colours that compliment my favourite white. Certain colours work perfectly well complimenting the rusticism of white; by acting as blocks of sunshine revamping the entire outfit.

With Raksha Bandhan rolling on in a week, I’ve created an edit below of chic white clothes and accessories to keep you looking polished and festive:

Imli Racerback Kurta Set by DinaUdupa

Peplum Lehenga by Rohit Bal

Saree by RawMango and Chinar Gold Zari Saree by DinaUdupa

Saka Ivory Gold Tunic by DinaUdupa

Jasmine Pearly Dupatta by DinaUdupa

Gulmohar Potli Bag by DinaUdupa

Jhootis by Needledust

Dina Udupa is the designer of her London based eponymous women’s wear brand; a celebration of luxurious fabrics in simple, elegant design forms.