Junior Rasmussen
Indian weddings are known for their extravagance and vibrancy, with multiple events across several days, each with its own dress code. As a guest, you'll want to dress appropriately and immerse yourself in the culture. The key rules and expectations around what to wear remain the same for any Indian wedding, but every couple is different and may have a unique dress code, so be sure to check the couple's wedding website or invitation for cues. When it comes to colours, it's important to avoid wearing red, as this is traditionally worn by the bride, and black, which is considered inauspicious. White is also best avoided, as well as very pale hues, unless requested by the couple. Guests are encouraged to embrace traditional Indian clothing, such as a saree, lehenga, or kurta set, but Western attire is also appropriate, especially if it features bright, festive colours.
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What You'll Learn
- Dress codes vary across Indian wedding events, so prepare multiple outfits
- Embrace colour, but avoid red, black, and white
- Wear traditional Indian clothing, or opt for formal Western attire
- Dress modestly and avoid revealing or casual clothing
- Research the cultural significance of your outfit and its functionality
Dress codes vary across Indian wedding events, so prepare multiple outfits
Indian weddings are known for their extravagance and vibrancy, and often span multiple days with different events and dress codes for each. So, as a guest, you may need multiple outfits.
The dress code for each event will depend on the couple's preferences, the region, and the religion. For example, a Hindu wedding will have religious ceremonies and meanings attached to each event. A good place to start is the couple's wedding website or invitation, which should give you an idea of the dress code for each event.
For pre-wedding events like the Mehendi, where the bride, her family, and guests get their henna done, the dress code is usually light and bright, with a theme of yellow and orange, as "haldi" means "turmeric" in Hindi. This is usually a daytime event, so light colours are recommended. For the Sangeet, a dance-off with performances from the bride and groom's sides, guests are often instructed to wear sparkly outfits, but an evening gown is also appropriate.
The wedding ceremony itself is usually formal, with guests wearing rich jewel tones or classic neutrals. Traditional Indian wedding attire is common, such as a sari, lehenga, or Anarkali suit for women, and a sherwani or kurta-pajama for men. However, formal Western outfits are also appropriate, especially if they feature bright, festive colours. It's important to avoid red, as this is usually the colour worn by the bride, and black, which is considered inauspicious in various Indian cultures. White is also best avoided, as it is considered a mourning colour.
When choosing your outfits, it's important to keep in mind that Indian weddings are quite traditional, so revealing or casual attire may leave guests feeling out of place. It's also good to be mindful of any cultural or religious requirements, such as covering your head or removing your shoes when entering a temple.
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Embrace colour, but avoid red, black, and white
Indian weddings are known for their extravagance and vibrant colours, so guests are encouraged to embrace colourful outfits. However, it is important to avoid certain colours, namely red, black, and white, for cultural and traditional reasons.
Red is considered sacred in Indian culture and is traditionally the colour worn by the bride, symbolising love, joy, luck, and commitment. Therefore, guests should avoid wearing red out of respect for the bride and to avoid upstaging the couple.
Black is also considered inauspicious and linked to mourning and loss rather than fresh starts or celebrations. Various cultures in India view black as an unlucky colour, so it is best to avoid wearing it to an Indian wedding.
White is another colour that is traditionally avoided by guests at Indian weddings, as it is associated with mourning in many Indian communities. Wearing white could bring up thoughts of sadness rather than celebration for some attendees. However, it is worth noting that in some regions, such as South Indian weddings, white sarees are considered appropriate for guests.
When attending an Indian wedding, it is essential to be mindful of these cultural considerations and choose colours that are vibrant and respectful. Guests can opt for colourful sarees, lehengas, or modern kurta sets, embracing the festive spirit of Indian weddings while respecting the traditions and significance of specific colours.
Additionally, it is worth noting that regional differences in Indian wedding attire exist, so guests should research these variations before finalising their outfits.
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Wear traditional Indian clothing, or opt for formal Western attire
When deciding what to wear as a guest at an Indian wedding, you have the option to wear traditional Indian clothing or formal Western attire. Indian weddings are known for their extravagance and vibrancy, and often span multiple days with different dress codes for each event.
If you want to wear traditional Indian clothing, it is important to do your research beforehand. The dress code for Indian weddings can vary depending on region, religion, and the personal preferences of the families involved. For example, at a Bengali wedding, women can wear white and red sarees, while men can wear simple kurta pajamas or a dhoti set. For other weddings, men can wear a sherwani or a formal suit with traditional Indian accessories like a kurta, a churidar, or pants. Women can wear a lehenga choli, a saree, or an Anarkali suit with intricate embroidery or embellishments. It is important to note that certain colours should be avoided, such as red, which is traditionally worn by the bride, and black, which is considered inauspicious in various Indian cultures. White is also typically avoided as it is a colour of mourning.
If you would prefer to wear Western attire, it is important to choose an outfit that is formal and respectful. Rich jewel tones and classic neutrals are a good choice, such as rich blues, greens, golds, or neutrals like champagne and ivory. It is important to avoid wearing anything too revealing, and to dress modestly. Light layers are also a good option, as Indian weddings often take place outdoors and you may need to cover your shoulders and knees.
Regardless of whether you choose to wear traditional Indian clothing or formal Western attire, it is important to respect the rich traditions and culture of Indian weddings. This includes being mindful of any religious customs or dress codes that may be involved. It is also a good idea to check the wedding website or invitation for any cues or guidelines from the couple on what to wear.
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Dress modestly and avoid revealing or casual clothing
Indian weddings are known for their extravagance and colourful outfits. While guests are invited to be themselves, it's important to be respectful of the culture and traditions. It is generally advised to dress modestly and avoid revealing or casual clothing.
For women, this means covering the knees and shoulders. Avoid sheer fabrics and strapless styles, and opt for light layers instead. A shawl or pashmina is a good idea for covering up and can also be useful for visiting temples, where you may be asked to cover your head and remove your shoes. If you're wearing Western attire, keep it modest and respectful, especially when outside of the official celebrations.
For men, simple kurta pyjamas in light colours or a dhoti set are good options. Western suits are also an acceptable choice.
If you want to wear traditional Indian clothing, there are many options for both men and women. Women can wear a saree or lehenga, while men can wear a churidar or bundi. It's important to research the regional differences in Indian wedding attire and abide by any colour or style requests from the couple.
Bright, festive colours are always in style for Indian weddings, but some colours are traditionally off-limits. Avoid wearing red, as this is typically the colour of the bride's outfit. Black is also considered inauspicious in various Indian cultures and should be avoided. White is usually only worn during mourning, so it's best to steer clear of that as well.
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Research the cultural significance of your outfit and its functionality
Indian weddings are known for their vibrant colours, glamour, and rich traditions. The attire for guests should be clothing that honours the history and cultural significance of Indian clothes.
Indian weddings often span several days and events, each with its own energy, dress code, and significance. The dress code for guests usually involves traditional Indian garments, but Western attire is also appropriate, especially if it features bright, festive colours.
If you're a woman, you could wear a lehenga, a skirt, a blouse, and a dupatta (scarf). An Anarkali suit—a long, flowing tunic with fitted pants or leggings—is also acceptable. A salwar kameez, a tunic with loose trousers and a scarf, is perfect for pre-wedding events like the haldi ceremony. For men, simple kurta pyjamas in light colours or a dhoti set are good options.
It's important to be mindful of cultural differences when choosing your outfit. Avoid wearing colours like white (worn at funerals in Hindu culture), black (associated with mourning and misfortune), and red (the colour typically worn by the bride).
Indian attire can be quite heavy, so comfort is key. Choose outfits that allow you to move freely and enjoy the celebrations. Modest clothing is generally preferred, and you can accessorize with jewellery, scarves, shawls, and stoles to add finishing touches.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended that guests avoid wearing red, black and white. Red is traditionally worn by the bride, while black and white are considered inauspicious colours.
Indian weddings are known for their vibrant, rich colours. Guests are encouraged to wear bright, festive colours like jewel tones and earth tones such as rich blues, greens, golds, neutrals and pastels.
Guests are not expected to wear Indian clothes to an Indian wedding. If you are comfortable wearing traditional Indian clothes, you can wear a saree, lehenga, kurta set or sherwani. If not, any cocktail dress or ensemble that you would wear to a Western wedding is suitable.
Indian weddings often take place outdoors, so it's a good idea to check the forecast and dress accordingly. It's also important to dress modestly, covering knees and shoulders, and to be mindful of any religious requirements, such as covering your head or removing your shoes.
