What to wear to an Indian wedding: a guide for guests, by ceremony

An Indian wedding is rarely a single event. It is several days, each with its own mood. Dressing well means thinking about the ceremony, the time of day and your relationship to the couple.

Mehendi

A relaxed, colourful, daytime gathering, often outdoors.

• Women: a light suit, sharara set or georgette saree in a fresh colour. Gota patti or chikankari suits well.
• Men: a silk or cotton-silk kurta set in a soft tone.
• Tip: wear comfortable shoes. You may be on the grass.

Sangeet

Music, dancing and family performances, in the evening.

• Women: a lehenga, gown or sharara you can move in. Mirror work and zari catch the light on the dance floor.
• Men: a bundi jacket over a kurta, or an Indo-western jacket.
• Tip: choose a skirt with room to twirl and fabric that does not cling.

The wedding ceremony

The most traditional event, often in the morning or afternoon, and often long.

• Women: a silk saree or an embroidered suit. Avoid white, and avoid outshining the bride, so skip full bridal red.
• Men: a sherwani, bandhgala or a formal kurta set. Ivory, gold and deep jewel tones are classic.
• Tip: cover shoulders if the venue is a temple or gurdwara. Check the dress code with the family.

Reception

The most formal evening, with a dinner and dancing.

• Women: a rich saree, an embroidered gown or a formal lehenga.
• Men: a bandhgala suit, an achkan-inspired jacket or a sherwani in a dark or neutral tone.

Colour

• Jewel tones (emerald, sapphire, ruby, aubergine) suit evening events.
• Pastels and ivory suit daytime events.
• Red is traditionally the bride's colour; as a guest, choose another unless the family says otherwise.
• Black has relaxed in many families, but check with the hosts first.

Fabric

Choose by weather and by how long you will be sitting. Georgette and organza breathe and travel well. Silk-blend and brocade hold structure for formal events. Velvet is lovely in winter, and heavy. See our women's and men's pages for the kinds of pieces we make.

Finish the look

Embroidered juttis are comfortable for hours and complete the outfit. A potli holds the essentials and keeps your hands free.

Dress for the day

If you are unsure, a short consultation with a stylist can turn a calendar of events into a wardrobe plan. We are happy to work with guests as well as the couple.