Lyla Dejesus
Indian weddings are known for their extravagance, spanning multiple days and packed with traditional ceremonies, lively dancing, and gorgeous attire. As a guest, you'll be immersed in the culture for a whole day or even three, so you'll want to dress the part in appropriate Indian wedding guest attire. The dress code can vary depending on the specific ceremony, but there are some general guidelines to follow. Firstly, it's important to embrace vibrant, festive colours while avoiding certain colours with negative associations with Indian culture, such as white, black, and red. Women usually wear sarees, lehengas, or salwar suits, while men typically wear kurtas, sherwanis, or formal suits paired with traditional Indian accessories. Jewellery and other accessories are also essential, adding a layer of elegance and tradition to your outfit.
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What You'll Learn
What colours to wear and avoid
Indian weddings are known for their extravagance, colour, vibrancy, and glamour. The dress code for an Indian wedding is often bright, festive, and colourful, with guests encouraged to wear vibrant shades and hues. However, there are some colours that are traditionally off-limits.
Colours to Avoid
Red is often considered off-limits as it is traditionally reserved for the bride and is symbolic of bridal wear. It is respectful to let the bride shine in red and avoid any attempt to outshine her.
Black is also traditionally avoided, as it is considered inauspicious in Indian culture. It is not a suitable colour for nuptials, despite being a staple at Western formal events.
White is also best avoided, as it is considered a big no-no. However, this is becoming less common, with some couples stipulating it as the desired dress code.
Colours to Wear
Bright colours are encouraged, such as pink, yellow, orange, green, blue, and jewel tones. These shades symbolise happiness and prosperity, making them ideal for a festive occasion. For daytime events, softer pastels are also a great choice.
For pre-wedding events, guests should opt for lightweight traditional outfits as there is a possibility of staining the outfit with haldi (turmeric) or henna. Men can choose kurtas, and women can choose from salwar suits, elegant skirt sets, sharara sets, or kaftan pant sets.
For the wedding ceremony, women usually wear sarees, lehenga cholis, or Anarkali suits with intricate embroidery or embellishments. Men typically wear sherwanis or formal suits paired with traditional Indian accessories like kurtas, churidars, or pants.
For post-wedding events, women can opt for cape and skirt sets, pre-draped sharara sarees, embroidered saree gowns, fish-cut lehengas, or sequinned sarees. Men can opt for something more comfortable, such as traditional Indian outfits or suits.
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Choosing between traditional and Western attire
Indian weddings are known for their extravagance, colour, and glamour. They are also steeped in tradition and culture. As a guest, you will likely want to dress the part in appropriate Indian wedding attire.
When choosing between traditional and Western attire, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it is important to respect the cultural and historical significance of the occasion. Traditional Indian attire is often encouraged, even for guests who do not share the cultural heritage of the newlyweds. This includes sarees, lehengas, salwar suits, sherwanis, kurtas, and churidars. These outfits are usually colourful, vibrant, and embellished with intricate embroidery.
However, it is not mandatory to wear traditional Indian attire. Guests can also opt for modest Western outfits. For women, long dresses or pantsuits that cover the legs and arms are appropriate. Men can wear suits or formal shirts and trousers. It is important to avoid revealing clothing and to dress modestly, especially during religious ceremonies.
Additionally, certain colours should be avoided in both traditional and Western attire. Red is traditionally reserved for the bride, and wearing it can be seen as trying to outshine her. Black is often considered inauspicious, and white is usually associated with mourning. Instead, opt for bright, festive colours like pink, yellow, orange, green, blue, or jewel tones.
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Dressing for the Mehendi ceremony
The Mehendi ceremony is a cherished tradition in Indian weddings, where the bride, her female family members, and friends come together for the application of intricate henna designs on their hands and feet. It is usually held during the daytime and is a chance for both the bride and groom to embrace traditional attire and celebrate.
For women, the Mehendi ceremony is an opportunity to wear something bright and vibrant, such as yellow, orange, or green, which is the colour of Mehendi. You should aim to dress in an Indian outfit if possible. Popular styles include Anarkali suits, lehenga cholis, shararas, ghararas, and sarees, all designed to capture the festive spirit of the occasion. Lightweight, breathable fabrics such as chiffon, georgette, and organza are essential to ensure comfort throughout the ceremony, allowing for ease of movement. You can also add a pop of colour with a vibrant jacket or opt for jackets featuring unique details like embroidery or patchwork.
For men, the key is to choose an outfit that makes you feel comfortable, stylish, and culturally appropriate. The most common options for men are the kurta pajama, sherwani, and Indo-western fusion wear. The kurta pajama is a classic choice, made up of a knee-length kurta (a loose shirt) and churidar pants (slim-fitting pants that gather at the ankle). For the Mehendi ceremony, opt for bright colours such as yellow, orange, or green, and pair them with traditional mojari shoes. The sherwani is a more formal option, typically worn over a kurta pajama. If you prefer a more modern style, you can opt for a lightweight linen or cotton bandhgala suit in a bright shade.
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Dressing for the Sangeet ceremony
The Sangeet ceremony is a joyful pre-wedding celebration of the union of two families, filled with music, dancing, and laughter. It is usually held in the evening, one to three days before the wedding ceremony. The sangeet is an opportunity for the bride and groom to spend quality time with their loved ones and for both families to get to know each other.
When it comes to dressing for the Sangeet ceremony, you can combine traditional Indian styles with Western looks. Bright, festive colours are always in style for an Indian wedding, no matter the season or venue. You can opt for pastels during the day and jewel tones or bright colours at night. If you're open to wearing traditional Indian clothing, the families will appreciate your embrace of their culture. Men can wear kurtas, Jodhpuri, or sherwanis, while women can wear salwar kameez, lehenga cholis, or Anarkali suits. You can also wear Western-style gowns with beading or embroidery. Just remember to choose something comfortable, as you'll be dancing the night away!
It's important to avoid wearing red, as it is traditionally worn by the bride, and white, as it is often worn to funerals in Hindu culture. Black is also traditionally considered inauspicious, though it is okay for the Sangeet or wedding reception. If you're unsure about what to wear, you can always refer to the couple's wedding website or invitation for cues or reach out to the bride, her planner, or a member of her wedding party for advice.
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Accessories and jewellery
Jewellery
Indian weddings are known for their extravagance and vibrant colours, and your jewellery choices should reflect that. Go for bold and bright jewellery to complement your outfit. Statement earrings, necklaces, and bangles are all great choices. You can also wear a bindi, a decorative forehead sticker, which is common and adds a unique touch to your look. If you're wearing a simpler outfit, a statement necklace or earrings can elevate your look. Traditional Indian jewellery often includes intricate temple jewellery, which can be a beautiful addition to your ensemble. Gold jewellery is also a sophisticated choice for female guests, especially when paired with a neatly draped saree.
Accessories
When it comes to accessories, you can add a statement clutch or a fuss-free bag to elevate your look. For footwear, comfortable yet stylish options are key. Indian weddings involve a lot of movement, from dancing to standing during long ceremonies. Flats or sandals are a good choice for women, as you may be sitting or standing on the floor for long periods. High heels are great for the reception but may not be practical for the entire event. Men should opt for closed-toe shoes that are formal yet comfortable. If you're attending a traditional ceremony, men can accessorise with a turban or a headpiece.
Colour Considerations
When choosing your jewellery and accessories, keep in mind the colours typically worn to Indian weddings. Bright, festive colours are always in style, and you can opt for jewel tones like emerald green, royal blue, and deep maroon for evening receptions. Pastel colours are also a great choice for daytime events. It's important to avoid certain colours, such as red, as it is traditionally worn by the bride, and black, which is considered inauspicious. White is also associated with mourning and should be avoided, especially during the ceremony.
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Frequently asked questions
You can choose between traditional Indian attire, such as sarees or sherwanis, or modest Western outfits.
Avoid wearing white, black, and red. These colours are considered inappropriate for guests at Indian weddings.
Bright, festive colours are always in style for an Indian wedding. Think pink, yellow, orange, green, blue, and jewel tones.
The Mehendi ceremony usually takes place during the day, so wear bright colours, with a dress code referring to green (like the colour of Mehendi). Try to wear an Indian outfit if possible.
The Sangeet is usually held in the evening, and guests often wear sparkly outfits. You can get away with wearing an evening gown if you don't want to wear an Indian outfit.
