Festive Fashion Returns Surge as Viral Video Highlights India’s ‘Wardrobing’ Trend
A viral video showing delivery agents handling hundreds of returned chaniya cholis and lehengas after Navratri and Dandiya nights has sparked debate over wardrobing, festive shopping habits and the rising costs of e-commerce returns.
The video shows delivery agents displaying hundreds of parcels containing chaniya cholis, lehengas and other traditional outfits in warehouses or inside their delivery vehicles. The agents can be seen laughing as they describe how clothing returns begin once the festive celebrations come to an end.
The video was shared on the social media platform X by the handle @Nishantchant and has since triggered a discussion about festive shopping habits and the misuse of return policies.
What Is the ‘Wardrobing’ Trend?
The practice highlighted in the viral video is being described online as “wardrobing”. It refers to consumers purchasing expensive outfits for a specific occasion or a day or two of celebrations and returning them after wearing them.
The trend has drawn sharp reactions on the internet. Several users have described it as a “shameless generation” taking advantage of easy return policies to look fashionable without ultimately spending money on the outfits. Others have treated the practice humorously, viewing it as a way to stay fashionable on a limited budget.
Fashion products generally have return rates ranging between 20 and 40 per cent. However, the return rate rises further immediately after the festive season, according to the draft. The situation creates an additional challenge for delivery agents, who must collect bundles of returned clothing and ensure that the items undergo repackaging and inspection.
Social media reactions to the practice remain mixed, with the debate focusing on whether returning outfits after wearing them for festive occasions is a way to manage expenses or an abuse of e-commerce return policies.
Rising Costs of E-Commerce Returns
Dandiya khatam ... Dress return Shameless generation https://t.co/Jzqye1WZeV
— Nishant (@Nishantchant) October 16, 2026
The impact extends beyond delivery operations. Brands have to bear the costs associated with reverse logistics, including shipping, quality inspections, repackaging and the loss of value of returned garments. These expenses can make the handling of returned clothing a financial burden for e-commerce companies.
The growing discussion around wardrobing has also raised questions about the sustainability of existing return policies. Several e-commerce companies are now considering stricter return policies in response to such practices.
Experts suggest that consumers looking for affordable outfits for occasional events should consider clothing rental services. Renting clothes can provide a cost-effective alternative while also being more environmentally friendly.
As the viral video brings the issue into public discussion, the practice of returning festive outfits after wearing them has become a point of concern for delivery agents, online shopping platforms and fashion brands dealing with the operational and financial consequences of clothing returns.

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