Bridesmaids' Style Guide: Reception Edition

Indian weddings are vibrant, multi-day celebrations, steeped in tradition and rich in cultural heritage. From the baraat, the groom's grand entrance, to the mandap, a sacred canopy where the ceremony takes place, each ritual holds a special significance.

An Indian bride's attire is a key element of the wedding, with red being the most prominent colour, often accented with gold. But what about the bridesmaids?

While the concept of bridesmaids is not traditionally part of Indian weddings, it is becoming increasingly common for brides to include a bridal party. However, the role and responsibilities of these attendants differ from those in Western weddings.

In an Indian wedding, bridesmaids may be involved in various ceremonies and parties leading up to the big day. They are expected to don traditional Indian attire, such as lehengas or sarees, and often perform choreographed dances during the festivities.

When it comes to the reception, the question of whether bridesmaids should change their outfits is a matter of personal preference and comfort. Some bridesmaids may feel more comfortable changing into a different outfit, especially if the bridal party has been wearing traditional Indian attire for the ceremonies. Ultimately, the decision should be discussed between the bride and her bridesmaids, taking into account the specific circumstances and dynamics of the wedding party.

Bridesmaids' attire

Indian weddings are vibrant, colourful, and full of energy. The bridesmaids' attire is no exception.

Indian weddings are often multi-day events, so bridesmaids will need to bring a variety of outfits for the different parties. The bride usually provides guidance on the attire worn at the ceremony, whether that's a matching ensemble or outfits that complement each bridesmaid's individual style. For the rest of the festivities, bridesmaids will likely need to pick out their own outfits.

Indian weddings are a perfect opportunity to be bold with clothing choices. It's best to avoid black, as it's not a celebratory colour, and red, as it's often worn by the bride. Jewel tones, like emerald green, are popular choices for evening events, although bright colours like hot pink, rich blue, or royal purple are also excellent options. If you're not feeling quite so bold, pastel colours are also welcomed, especially during the day.

Bridesmaids can choose a Western-style dress for pre- or post-wedding activities, but traditional Indian culture invites guests to immerse themselves fully in the experience, including wearing a lehenga or saree. A lehenga is typically a two-piece outfit with a cropped top and a full skirt. A saree is a long wrap of silk that encompasses the body and is preferred by families from western and southern India. These outfits can be expensive, costing between $100 and $800.

Accessories are key to pulling the traditional look together. Bracelets, like bangles, and necklaces are great additions. Comfort is also important, as there will be plenty of dancing at an Indian wedding!

Some brides choose to have their bridesmaids hold candle bouquets or lanterns during the ceremony, which can double up as decorations during the reception.

At the reception, there will be plenty of dancing to upbeat music, often with a choreographed dance chosen by the bride.

Bridesmaids' entrance

Indian weddings are vibrant, multi-day celebrations, full of rituals and traditions. The bridesmaids' entrance is an important part of the ceremony. While the bride often enters with her brothers, uncle, or other male relatives carrying a veil above her head, she may also be hoisted off the ground on a small carriage. In some cases, the bride may choose to have her bridesmaids escort her down the aisle to the Mandap, a dome-like covering that symbolises a sacred space.

For the bridesmaids' entrance, it is customary to show excitement and reverence for the upcoming ceremony. Song choices for a romantic entrance include O Re Piya, Raataan Lambiyan, Jag Ghoomeya, and Sun Saathiya. The bridesmaids may also perform a choreographed dance during the reception, with song choices such as Sauda Khara Khara, Garmi, Naagin, or Makhna.

Indian weddings traditionally do not include bridesmaids, but some couples are now choosing to incorporate this element. The bridesmaids' attire is typically a saree or lehenga, with popular colours being jewel tones like emerald green, hot pink, rich blue, or royal purple. It is important to avoid black and red, as black is not considered a celebratory colour, and red is often worn by the bride.

Indian weddings are a unique and cultural experience, with each celebration being shaped by the diverse communities and religions of India. The bridesmaids' entrance and participation add to the joy and excitement of the occasion.

Bridesmaids' dance

Indian weddings are known for their vibrant colours, gold jewellery, and rich cultural traditions. The wedding celebrations are often spread over several days and include multiple events, such as the Sangeet and Mehendi, the ceremony, and the reception.

Indian weddings traditionally do not include bridesmaids, but some couples are now choosing to incorporate this element into their celebrations. If you are a bridesmaid at an Indian wedding, you will likely be expected to participate in a choreographed dance at some point during the festivities. This could be at the reception or during the Sangeet or raas-garba the night before the wedding. The dance will likely be chosen by the bride and may be from any genre of music.

To ensure the dance goes smoothly, it is recommended that you have a video of the routine at least three months before the event, so that you can practice beforehand. It is also a good idea to keep the choreography simple, so that the dance looks cleaner and sharper. Remember, these dances are a way to experience the culture of the bride and groom, so try to leave your nerves at the door and enjoy the moment!

In terms of what to wear, the bride will usually provide guidance on the coordinating attire for the ceremony. For the rest of the festivities, you will likely need to pick out your own outfits. It is important to note that Indian weddings are full of colour, so this is a great opportunity to be bold with your clothing choices. However, it is recommended that you avoid black and red, as black is not a celebratory colour and red is often worn by the bride. Lehengas or sarees are traditional choices, but you can also choose a Western-style dress for some of the events.

Bridesmaids' duties

Indian weddings are often multi-day events, with various rituals and ceremonies taking place over several days. Bridesmaids are usually close friends or family members handpicked by the bride to support her in her wedding planning responsibilities and provide assistance to organise the wedding. Here is a list of duties that an Indian bridesmaid may be expected to perform:

Pre-Wedding

• Offer emotional support to the bride.
• Help plan the bachelorette party/bridal shower.
• Assist with the bride's outfits and offer suggestions for the bridal party's outfits, hair and makeup.
• Offer gifts to the bride, such as a spa day or Indian sweets.

Wedding Day

• Assist the bride in getting ready, including helping her put on her wedding dress and handling any last-minute activities.
• Coordinate with the wedding planners and ensure you are on time for all events.
• Take part in the bridesmaid entrance at the wedding, where they may escort the bride down the aisle to the Mandap.
• Take part in the 'Joota Chupai' ritual, where the bridesmaids steal the groom's shoes as he enters the Mandap and demand money in exchange for returning them.
• Be on standby to bless the couple with flower petals as the ceremony wraps up.
• Assist the bride with her dress, food and drinks throughout the day.
• Socialise with the guests and make them feel welcome.

Post-Wedding

• Take photographs of the happy couple and share them as soon as possible.
• Take care of the gifts by collecting them and taking them to a secure place until the couple returns from their honeymoon.
• Perform a choreographed dance at the reception.

Outfits

Brides will usually provide guidance on the coordinating attire worn at the ceremony. However, bridesmaids will likely have to pick out their own outfits for the rest of the festivities. It is recommended to avoid wearing black and red, with the latter colour often being worn by the bride. Bridesmaids can choose a Western-style dress for pre- or post-wedding activities, but traditional Indian culture invites guests to wear a lehenga or saree.

Bridesmaids' hair and makeup

Indian weddings are a vibrant, multi-day affair, with a variety of rituals and ceremonies. The bridesmaids' duties at an Indian wedding are a little different from those at a typical American wedding, due to the additional ceremonies and parties involved.

Hair and Makeup

Indian bridesmaids often wear a lehenga or saree, and these weddings are a great opportunity to be bold with your clothing choices. When it comes to hair and makeup, there are many options to consider.

Hair

Bridesmaids can opt for a traditional hairstyle to complement their lehenga or saree. A sleek, middle-parted hairstyle is a popular choice, whether it's a half ponytail or a tight bun adorned with mogra flowers. You can also go for loose waves or straight hair with just a hint of wave for a more modern look.

Makeup

For makeup, it's important to consider the colour of your lehenga or saree. If you're wearing a pastel colour during the day, a soft, dewy look can complement the romantic undertones of your outfit. You can also opt for a bold lip, such as a bright pink or maroon, especially if your outfit is ivory or beige.

If your lehenga or saree is in a jewel tone, like emerald green, you can go for a smokey eye with gold and bronze undertones, or even a sparkly silver eye look. Don't be afraid to add some glitter to your eyelids!

If you're wearing a colourful outfit, like hot pink or royal purple, you can tone down your makeup with a nude lip and a simple eye look. Kohl-rimmed eyes and a natural pout are always a classic choice.

Remember to choose a look that you're comfortable with and that suits your features. It's also a good idea to consider the longevity of your makeup, as Indian weddings are often multi-day events with lots of dancing and celebrations!

Frequently asked questions