What to Wear to an Indian Wedding as a Guest

Wedding season brings several events in a few days, and each one has its own dress code. Planning the outfits in advance saves stress and money.

Haldi

Think yellow, but also white, mint and soft pastels. Cotton or light georgette suits, kurta sets and simple sarees work well, since the function is outdoors and can get messy. Avoid dry-clean-only fabrics.

Mehendi

Bright greens, pinks, oranges and teals are popular. Pick comfortable, easy-to-sit-in outfits like a sharara set or a flowy kurti with a dupatta. Choose sleeves that do not drag through the henna.

Sangeet

This is the night to dress up and dance. Choose a lehenga, gown-style suit or a pre-draped saree in jewel tones. Make sure you can move easily, and carry flat sandals for later.

The wedding ceremony

Go for traditional, rich fabrics such as silk-blend sarees or heavily embroidered suits in deep red, maroon, bottle green, royal blue or gold. Keep your jewellery elegant.

Reception

Evening glamour fits here: satin sarees, sequin work and darker shades.

Colours to avoid

• Bridal red unless you know the family is comfortable with it.
• Pure white or black for traditional ceremonies in many communities.
• Anything so bright or sparkly it competes with the bride.

Smart wedding wardrobe tips

1. Pick two outfits you can re-wear with different dupattas and jewellery.
2. Check the weather and venue (indoor, outdoor, lawn).
3. Try the full outfit, including footwear, a week ahead.
4. Order early so there is time for alterations or an exchange.

Find festive picks in our sarees, kurta sets and dupattas, and see more ideas in our mehendi, haldi and sangeet outfit guide.