Navratri is almost here, and with it begins that long stretch of festive dressing, social plans and, eventually, the never-ending Diwali party spree. Ikaai Fashion and Lifestyle arrives right at the start of it, bringing the kind of festive shopping fix we need before the calendar fills up.

This time, Ikaai is bringing its festive edit to Lucknow’s newly opened Taj Palace, giving the exhibition a new address. The one-day showcase on October 12 will bring together over 80 stalls, covering fashion, jewellery, home décor, festive essentials and gifting.

Start with the wardrobe, because Diwali, Navratri and the wedding season all call for a little dressing up. Ayaka brings timeless silhouettes, Oja has vacation wear, while Harsh Harsh lines up designer outfits. Devasya brings designer suits in trending colours, Outline adds party wear, and Rekha Agra brings ethnic suits and Anarkalis. For statement festive dressing, Piroyi has regal lehngas, while Kaarigari by RK, a label dating back to 1960, brings Banarasi saris with a distinctly old-school lineage.

Once the outfit is sorted, turn to the finishing touches. The exhibition brings together several jewellery labels, including Bandan Pe Sitare, with fine silver jewellery among the pieces to look out for. It is worth browsing the jewellery stalls in full, especially if festive dressing also means finding a new piece of silver to take home.

While Musse Studio has crockery and Momentz brings home décor for festive makeovers. For Diwali gifting, there will also be silver gifting pieces, diyas and festive decorations, while Ivory Tales Studio has gifting and festive packing covered. It is essentially the stop for those last-minute Diwali details.

This time around Ikaai has collaborated with five NGOs, supporting women entrepreneurs and child welfare. The event is also backed by Crescent Group and Kakun Fine Jewellery.

A Taj café will be set up at the exhibition, serving tea, coffee and Navratri-friendly food. So, instead of making a quick exit when the shopping fatigue kicks in, you can stop for a snack and a cup of coffee before heading back to the stalls.

Behind the one-day showcase is a team bringing years of experience in fashion and lifestyle exhibitions, working day and night to put together an edit that brings some of the best names under one roof, right here in Lucknow. So, mark your calendars and, more importantly, save the new address, because you have just one day to shop it all.

Entry: Free

When: October 12, 11 am to 8 pm

Where: Taj Palace, Vibhuti Khand, Gomti Nagar, Lucknow