George Boyle
Indian weddings are a vibrant, glamorous, and culture-rich occasion, and dressing for one can be a daunting task. Whether you're attending as a guest or are part of the wedding party, it's important to choose an outfit that is comfortable and respectful. For women, Indian outfits such as sarees, lehengas, and anarkali suits are a good choice, while men can opt for suits, sherwanis, or kurta-pajamas. It's also important to keep the wedding's dress code and colour palette in mind, as well as the time of day and specific traditions that may require certain attire. With the right combination of colours, accessories, and cultural elements, you can create a stylish and appropriate look for an Indian wedding.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Colour | Bright colours are encouraged, with some dress codes referring to green. Avoid red and white. |
| Style | Indian outfits are expected, particularly sarees and lehengas for women, and suits for men. Indian accessories and jewellery are also recommended. |
| Type of event | Daytime events are more casual, while evening events are more formal and sparkly. |
| Comfort | Choose a hassle-free and comfortable outfit. |
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What You'll Learn
Choose bright colours
Choosing an outfit for a wedding can be tricky, especially when you want to stand out and embrace the celebratory spirit of the occasion. While black, navy, and other dark colours are common choices for Western weddings, Indian weddings are quite the opposite, with bright, vibrant, and glamorous attire taking centre stage.
For Indian weddings, which are often held during the daytime, bright colours are the norm, with some dress codes even suggesting green, the colour of Mehendi. As a guest, you are encouraged to embrace the traditional attire, which for women includes lehengas, sarees, skirts, blouses, and dupattas (scarves). These outfits can be paired with colourful Indian accessories or Western accessories like a Lady Dior bag for a smart finish. If you're feeling creative, you can even mix and match Indian and Western styles, such as wearing the top of an Indian outfit with a high-waisted skirt or trousers.
When it comes to specific colours, there are a few things to keep in mind. While red is a popular choice, you may want to avoid it to ensure you don't steal the thunder of the bride. Instead, consider orange, pink, yellow, or lime green, which are all vibrant and festive options. Golden and silver are also excellent choices for Indian weddings, as they add a touch of glamour and elegance.
However, it's important to note that some consider it rude to dictate or suggest a dress code for guests, especially when it comes to colour. While you may want to embrace bright colours, it's essential to respect the wishes of the couple and their families. Ultimately, the decision to wear bright colours or not is a personal choice, and there are no hard and fast rules.
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Wear Indian outfits
Indian weddings are a vibrant, glamorous, and colourful affair, and guests are encouraged to embrace traditional attire. If you're wearing an Indian outfit, sarees and lehengas are popular choices, often featuring elaborate embroidery and bright colours. A lehenga is an ankle-length skirt that can be paired with a western-style top or a traditional Indian blouse. Sarees can be draped in a variety of ways, including with one end attached to the waist and the other end over one shoulder as a stole.
For women, a lehenga with a skirt, blouse, and dupatta (scarf) is a great option. Anarkali suits, which are long, flowing tunics with fitted pants or leggings, are also acceptable and comfortable. You can also pair a lehenga with western accessories, such as a Lady Dior bag, or wear a western outfit with Indian accessories like bangles, heavy jewellery, and Indian pouches or scarves.
For pre-wedding ceremonies and more casual events, a kurta-pajama, which is a long tunic with loose-fitting pants, is a good choice. For the main ceremony or reception, a sherwani, a formal embellished coat-like tunic with fitted trousers, is perfect for both men and women. Men can also wear suits and will often be given a Safa, a hat made from a colourful scarf, to wear.
It is important to note that Indian attire can be heavy, so comfort is key. You may be required to remove your shoes before entering certain venues, so choose your footwear accordingly. Avoid wearing red, as it is traditionally worn by the bride, and white, which is considered unacceptable for guests, just like at Western weddings.
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Avoid wearing white
When it comes to wedding functions, it's important to consider the type of wedding and the cultural expectations that come with it. For example, Indian weddings are often vibrant and colourful, with guests encouraged to embrace traditional attire. Western weddings, on the other hand, may have different expectations, and it's important to consider the dress code and level of formality.
One common rule that applies to most weddings is to avoid wearing white. This is because white is traditionally associated with the bride, and it is considered disrespectful to try to take attention away from them on their special day. Even if you don't intend to upstage the bride, it may be perceived that way, and it's best to avoid any awkward situations.
The "no-white" rule also applies to cream, ivory, beige, and similar shades. These colours may be too close to white and can still be seen as attention-grabbing. If you're questioning whether a dress is too close to white, it's probably best to leave it at home and choose something else.
Additionally, certain fabrics like lace and tulle are often associated with bridal gowns and should be avoided. These fabrics are considered more traditional and bridal, even if the dress itself is not white.
However, there is an exception to this rule. If the couple specifically requests that guests wear white, then it is acceptable to do so. This request will usually be mentioned in the invitation, and it is important to respect the couple's wishes.
In conclusion, while there are many ways to dress fashionably for a wedding, avoiding white or similar shades is a common courtesy to the bride. It is important to be mindful of cultural expectations and dress codes, and choosing an outfit that is respectful and appropriate is always the best option.
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Embrace heavy jewellery
Indian weddings are a vibrant, colourful, and glamorous affair. Guests are encouraged to embrace the traditional attire and bold colours of the culture, regardless of their background. Women tend to wear heavy jewellery and accessories, and men typically opt for embroidered or embellished traditional wear.
If you're attending an Indian wedding, you can pair Indian outfits with western accessories. For example, you could wear a lehenga with western bags such as a Lady Dior bag for a smart and elegant finish, or a small basket bag for a fun look. You could also wear an Indian scarf with a jumpsuit or long dress.
For the Sangeet, a dance-off with stage performances, guests are usually instructed to wear sparkly outfits. Men can wear suits and tuxedos.
If you're attending a wedding as a bride, your jewellery choice is pivotal to enhancing the beauty of your ensemble. Your wedding day is an expression of your personality, and your accessories should reflect that. If you're wearing a strapless dress, a statement necklace or drop earrings can enhance the ensemble's silhouette. If you're wearing your hair up, statement earrings can take centre stage. If you're considering a mix-and-match approach, ensure a sense of cohesion by choosing pieces that share a common element, such as a metal finish or thematic design.
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Opt for comfort
When it comes to wedding attire, comfort is key. Whether you're attending an Indian wedding or a Western wedding, there are plenty of ways to look stylish while staying comfortable.
For women, a good option is to wear a pre-draped saree, an Anarkali kurta with sharara or palazzo pants, or a lehenga skirt with a crop top. These outfits are not only elegant but also comfortable and hassle-free. You can also opt for a co-ord set, which offers a put-together look without sacrificing comfort. If you're attending an Indian wedding, consider renting your outfit to get high-quality pieces without breaking the bank.
For men, a kurta-pajama, which is a long tunic with loose-fitting pants, is a great option for pre-wedding ceremonies and casual events. A sherwani, a formal embellished coat-like tunic paired with fitted trousers, is perfect for the ceremony or reception. If it's a beach wedding, a nice linen shirt or a breathable button-down with khakis or slacks will keep you comfortable in the hot weather.
Additionally, don't forget to consider your footwear. If you plan on spending a lot of time on the dance floor, comfortable shoes are a must. Flats, wedges, or chunky heels are great options to keep you stable and pain-free throughout the night.
Lastly, remember to dress appropriately for the weather and venue. For outdoor weddings, choose outfits that can withstand the elements, such as a gentle ocean breeze or hot temperatures. If the wedding is held at a temple, you may need to remove your shoes, so keep that in mind when choosing your footwear.
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Frequently asked questions
Female guests are encouraged to embrace traditional Indian attire, regardless of their background. This includes lehengas, skirts, blouses, dupattas (scarves), and saris. It is best to opt for an outfit that is comfortable and hassle-free. Bright colours and intricate accessories are also recommended.
Male guests are also encouraged to wear Indian outfits, such as a sherwani, a kurta-pajama, or a kurta jacket set. These outfits can be paired with suits and tuxedos. It is important to wear modest Western silhouettes if you are not wearing Indian clothing.
It is best to avoid wearing white to an Indian wedding, as it is considered disrespectful. Red should also be avoided, as it is a colour that is typically worn by the bride.
There are a few ways to style your outfit for an Indian wedding. You can pair Indian outfits with Western accessories, such as a Lady Dior bag or a small basket bag. Alternatively, you can wear Western outfits with Indian accessories, such as bangles, heavy jewellery, and Indian pouches. You can also create your own take on an Indian look by wearing the top of an Indian outfit with a high-waisted skirt or trousers.
