A kids lehenga is a three-piece — a flared skirt, a fitted choli and a dupatta — and it is the festive choice, cut to swish when she spins, which is why it suits weddings and Navratri. A girls co-ord set is a two-piece with a straight or lightly flared bottom: less twirl, but much less to manage and far easier to keep on a child through a long function. If the event is formal and photographed, pick the lehenga; if she is going to run about, pick the co-ord set.

Cotton. It breathes, absorbs sweat and does not cling in humidity, so it works for daytime functions and outdoor events; cotton slub gives the same comfort with a little texture. Georgette and crepe are light and drape close, which makes them a reasonable middle ground for an evening. Organza and tissue look wonderful but are stiff and warm, so keep them for shorter, indoor occasions and make sure the outfit is properly lined.

Match the shade to the function. Yellow and marigold orange for haldi, and those are also the colours you will not mourn when they stain. Green and teal for mehndi. Purple, red, pink and blue for sangeet and reception evenings, because they hold their detail under artificial light where black flattens out. Peach, fawn, ivory and pastels are the daytime and puja shades and photograph beautifully in natural light.