What to Wear to the Hornbill Festival 2025: Outfit & Style Guide for Men and Women

by H&M Pvt Ltd September 23, 2025

Every year in December, Nagaland bursts into life with one of the most vibrant festivals in India — the Hornbill Festival. It is often called the “Festival of Festivals” because it brings together all the tribes of Nagaland to celebrate their culture, food, dance, crafts, and, of course, their fashion.

If you’re planning to attend, you might be asking yourself: What should I wear?

Here’s the truth — one of the best parts of the Hornbill Festival is the colourful style everywhere you look. The right outfit doesn’t just make you look good in photos; it helps you feel confident, comfortable, and connected to the local culture.

This blog will guide you through Hornbill Festival outfits 2025 — from traditional Naga attire to modern, easy-to-wear looks. Whether you’re a man or a woman, a fashion lover or a tourist just trying not to look lost in the crowd, consider this your style handbook for the festival.

Understanding Hornbill Festival Fashion

Before you pack your bag, it’s essential to know why clothes matter so much here.

The Hornbill Festival is more than just dancing and concerts — it’s a proud display of Naga culture. Each tribe has its own shawls, colours, and patterns. What you wear at the festival is not just clothing; it’s a way of showing respect to these traditions.

Traditional Naga Clothing Essentials

Naga traditional fashion is mostly handwoven and often made of cotton. The highlight is the shawl, which has bold stripes, checks, or intricate tribal designs. Every shawl carries meaning; some are worn by warriors, others by elders, and some by everyone.

Women also wear wrap skirts in bright colours, while men have loincloths or tunic-style shirts teamed with their shawls. The common thread here? Bold reds, deep blacks, bright whites, and patterns that carry stories of bravery and heritage.

Popular Accessories at Hornbill Festival

Jewellery is another must. Multi-strand bead necklaces are a clear favourite — often made in red, black, yellow, or white. Men sometimes wear necklaces with claws, boar tusks, or bone pendants, symbolising strength.

You’ll also notice feathered headgear, bamboo bags, and cane hats. If you wear even one or two of these accessory pieces, your outfit will instantly look “festival ready.”

Fusion Fashion: Modern Twists on Traditional Outfits

Here’s the fun part — you don’t have to go entirely traditional if that feels intimidating. Many visitors now mix traditional pieces with modern clothes.

For example:

A Naga shawl draped over a plain white shirt and jeans.
A simple black dress styled with tribal jewellery.
A kurta paired with bead necklaces.

This “fusion fashion” allows you to stay comfortable and add your own personality while still celebrating the culture.

Outfit Ideas for Women

Ladies, the Hornbill Festival is your chance to bring out bright colours, layered jewellery, and playful styles. Whether you want to go entirely traditional or add just a touch of tribal fashion, here are some ideas.

Traditional Women’s Shawls and Dresses

Start with the shawl. A bold red-and-black Naga shawl thrown over your shoulders can instantly elevate your look. Pair it with a wraparound skirt (locally called mekhela) or even a simple, plain dress underneath.

If it’s chilly in the evening, shawls are also efficient — so style meets comfort here.

Accessories to Complete Your Festival Look

Multi-layer bead necklaces (the more strands, the better).
Silver bangles or chunky bracelets.
Bamboo or cane handbags.
A feather earring or tribal-inspired studs.

These pieces instantly transform a plain outfit into something eye-catching and culturally connected.

Modern Twists for Comfortable Festival Wear

If you prefer light, comfortable wear, no problem. Team up:

A pair of jeans, a simple top, and a Naga shawl.
A bohemian maxi dress with bead jewellery.
A skirt and t-shirt with bright tribal accessories.

The festival is outdoors, so choose breathable cotton or linen fabric. Comfort is just as important as style here.

Outfit Ideas for Men

Don’t worry, guys, we’ve got you covered, too. Men’s fashion at the Hornbill Festival is every bit as striking — bold, masculine, and deeply traditional.

Traditional Men’s Attire

The hero piece is again the shawl. Draped over a shirt or traditional tunic, it creates an instant statement. Black trousers or wraparound cloth bottoms complete the outfit.

Pro tip: Solid colours like black or white shirts help the shawl stand out more.

Accessorizing with Naga Jewelry

Men also wear accessories to show strength and pride. These include:

Horn or claw pendants.
Thick bead necklaces.
Cane armbands.

You don’t need to wear all at once. Just one necklace with a shawl can complete your look.

Comfortable and Stylish Options for All-Day Wear

For a more laid-back style:

Team a plain t-shirt with a woven tribal jacket.
Wear jeans with traditional jewellery and sandals.
Keep an extra shawl handy for the chilly evening.

This strikes a balance between blending in with the local vibe and staying true to your own comfort.

Footwear and Practical Tips

Choosing the right shoes might not sound exciting — but trust me, it makes or breaks your Hornbill Festival experience. Remember, you’ll walk a lot.

Best Footwear Choices for the Festival

Flat sandals, boots, or sneakers are your best friends. Anything with good grip works because the terrain can be uneven. Leave behind slippery shoes or delicate heels, unless you want an unplanned comedy show slipping around.

Bags, Hats, and Accessories You’ll Need

A crossbody or sling bag to keep your hands free.
A sunhat or headscarf for daytime.
A lightweight jacket or shawl for cool evenings.

Staying Comfortable Without Compromising Style

Here’s the secret: Layer smart. Days are warm, nights are cool. Dress in light clothes that you can add a shawl or jacket to later. Cotton fabrics let your skin breathe as you walk between food stalls and stages.

Where to Shop for Hornbill Festival Outfits

Okay, you’re excited and inspired. But where do you actually get these outfits? Don’t worry, you have options.

Shop Authentic Naga Fashion Online

If you’re not in Nagaland yet, consider shopping online through platforms like Runway Nagaland, which offer authentic, handcrafted pieces. From shawls to jewellery, everything is made by local artisans and shipped worldwide.

This saves stress and also helps you arrive at the festival already looking the part.

Local Shopping at Hornbill Festival

If you prefer the thrill of discovering fashion on the spot, the festival has bustling stalls full of shawls, jewellery, and accessories. Buying locally supports artisans directly — and negotiating is half the fun!

Tips for Choosing Quality Handcrafted Items

Look for tight, even weaving in shawls.
Check the beads for solid stringing.
Go for natural dyes where possible.

Remember, every piece is handmade. Buying one is not just shopping — it’s carrying a story home with you.

Conclusion

The Hornbill Festival is not just about dance and music — it’s about celebrating identity—the outfits you choose become part of that celebration.

For Hornbill Festival outfits 2025, here’s the golden rule: blend comfort with culture. Wear a traditional shawl, add some bead jewellery, mix it with modern clothes if you want, and keep your footwear practical. This way, you’ll look amazing and feel free to enjoy every moment — from daytime crafts to evening concerts.

Now, go ahead and explore Runway Nagaland’s handcrafted collection to find your perfect festival look. Step into the festival in December not just as a tourist, but as someone who honours the culture, loves the energy, and definitely knows how to dress for the occasion.