The Hindu Lit For Life 2026 | Flipping the fashion page

The recently concluded The Hindu Lit For Life, saw authors, speakers and book lovers converge to enjoy the written and the spoken word, all while putting their best foot forward fashion-wise. We speak to them, and discuss personal style, blending tradition with modern sensibilities and more.

Accent elevation

Minimalism with pops of colour seem to be catching on this year, with a vibrant accent elevating neutral colours. lawyer Manasi Chaudhari, founder, Pink Legal, who was a speaker at the fest, showed up in a monochromatic cream outfit. Wearing a peplum blouse and wide leg trousers from a boutique in Goa, she created a relaxed yet stylish look. She made a statement with a green and metallic necklace bought from a flea market, also in Goa. She says, “This gemstone necklace really stood out to me. It’s the kind of piece you just don’t find in mainstream stores.”

Handcrafted elegance

Sreemathi Ramnath, a polyglot consultant and writer who moderated a session at the fest wore a traditional saree in beige, purple and blue, sourced from an exhibition by the Crafts Council of India nearly 10 years ago. Her jewellery is from local artisans. However the true star of her outfit was her blouse made by the Sapa tribe, indigenous to northern Vietnam. “The print stood out to me. It was originally a jacket which I converted into a blouse,” said Sreemathi.

Desi maximalism

Janaki Sampath, an attendee at the fest, wore her grandmother’s rani pink dupatta made of Chanderi to add a pop of colour to her all black outfit. “When I was very sick, my grandmother wrapped a shawl around me to keep me warm. I remember being surprised that she chose something so beautiful for such a simple act of care. I can’t help but wonder how many quiet treasures she has tucked away” said Janaki. Along with that, she wore traditional dance jewellery, golden and rani pink bangles from Narayana Pearls and a septum ring to match from Sukra Jewellery.