Spooky Chic or Diwali Glitz – South Asian Americans Get the Best of Both Worlds

When two holidays as spirited as Diwali and Halloween align, the result is a heady mix of tradition, whimsy, and bold aesthetics. South Asian Americans have unlocked a unique cultural fusion, where spooky costumes meet festive glimmer. Simitri’s avant-garde accessories thrive in this duality—transitioning effortlessly between eerie elegance and celebratory splendor. Whether you’re lighting a diya or rocking a gothic ensemble, Simitri’s creations strike the perfect balance between audacious and elegant.

The Magic of Orange: A Shared Language of Light

Pumpkin orange is everywhere—wrapped in autumn leaves, glowing from jack-o'-lanterns, and woven into the petals of marigolds that adorn Diwali homes. The color bridges both celebrations, drawing parallels between traditions that illuminate the darkness. Simitri’s Orange Laddoo Clutch, with its boondi-laddoo-inspired hue, pays homage to this festive synergy. Much like pumpkin spice triggers nostalgia for fall, this vibrant clutch channels the warmth of both celebrations—whether you're indulging in Indian sweets or candy corn.

In both cultures, light holds deep meaning. Halloween’s lanterns ward off evil, while Diwali’s diyas invite prosperity and joy. The Laddoo Clutch captures this dual symbolism, blending tradition with cheeky playfulness—an accessory that feels equally at home on a Diwali dinner table or as part of a Halloween ensemble.

From the Kitsch to the Couture: Accessories That Travel Across Celebrations

Simitri’s bags are designed with fluidity in mind—effortlessly moving from Diwali soirées to Halloween’s dark enchantment. Drawing inspiration from their iridescent flutter, the Beetle Bag channels a chic nod to Beetlejuice—not in literal beetles but in playful references to eccentricity. It’s the kind of bag you’d see Emily Cooper flaunting at a Parisian masquerade, dressed in black-and-white stripes—a subtle homage to gothic glamor, with just the right amount of wit.

Plan to dress up as Wednesday Addams or Cruella? Simitri has you covered with sequined black clutches and the striking Tuxedo Braided Bag in black and white. Both pieces add an edge to costume looks but transition effortlessly to a Diwali party outfit, adding sophistication to saris, lehengas, or gowns. This versatility is where Simitri thrives—creating pieces that are playful yet elevated, daring yet timeless.

A Celebration in Every Stitch

For founder Gayatri, Halloween isn’t just about spooky costumes—it’s also an opportunity to experiment with design. “It’s a time to be bold,” she says, “whether in my son’s costume or in the bags we create.” The joy of playing with motifs—snakes, beetles, tassels—finds its way into Simitri’s collections. These motifs, while jungle-inspired, are crafted to transcend a single event.

The result? Bags that echo both the fantasy and the celebration. Simitri’s tassel bags and kitsch designs are perfect examples of this duality. They bring just the right amount of sparkle to Diwali, while their playful, statement-making charm adds flair to Halloween costumes. A black-sequined clutch, for example, can double as a spooky evening accessory or a standout piece for a festive gathering. The versatility of party clutches lies in their ability to elevate, embellish, and adapt.

Two Celebrations, One Spirit

Simitri’s philosophy is rooted in bold expression, and what better time to embrace it than during two festive events that encourage self-expression? With pieces that transcend the expected, these special occassion bags become companions for both festive opulence and playful chic. South Asian Americans no longer have to choose between spooky Halloween thrills and Diwali grandeur—they get to revel in both.

Because, as Simitri believes, fashion is a celebration—and with the right accessories, you can celebrate everything at once.