When attending an Indian wedding as a guest, choosing the right attire is essential. Indian weddings are known for their extravagance, vibrant colors, and rich traditions. Here are some tips on what to wear:
Colorful Attire:
Indian weddings celebrate color, so embrace it! Bright and festive hues are always in style. Stick to pastels during the daytime and jewel tones at night. However, avoid wearing red (as the bride typically wears red) and black (considered inauspicious in some cultures). Research regional differences—white and red sarees are perfect for Bengali weddings, while South Indian weddings favor white, ivory, and traditional gold sarees.
Traditional Indian Clothing:
For Women: Opt for sarees, lehengas, Anarkali suits, or salwar kameez. Lehengas are two-piece outfits with a cropped top and a full, high-waisted skirt.
For Men: Choose kurta pajamas or sherwanis. Simple kurta pyjamas in light colors work well, or you can take a more traditional route and wear a dhoti set.
Modesty and Respect: Dress modestly and avoid attire that’s too revealing. Cover your head during religious ceremonies.
Accessories: Don’t be afraid to accessorize. Traditional jewelry, such as necklaces, earrings, bangles, and maang tikka, adds elegance.
Remember, your attire is a gesture of respect for the traditions and the importance of the event. Enjoy the festivities and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of an Indian wedding!
Where to Shop for an Indian Wedding Guest Attire?
When shopping for Indian wedding guest attire, you’ll want to find pieces that reflect the celebratory spirit of the occasion while adhering to cultural norms. Here are some excellent places to shop for your perfect ensemble:
Local Boutiques and Little India Areas:
Most large cities have dedicated “Little India” neighborhoods where you can find clothes, jewelry, and other Indian accessories like bindis. Explore these areas for authentic and unique pieces.
Look for local boutiques specializing in Indian clothing. They often carry a wide range of sarees, lehengas, and kurta sets.
Online Stores:
Royal Indian Closet: This online store offers a curated collection of Indian ethnic wear, including sarees, lehengas, and salwar suits.
Maneka’s Closet: Another trusted online platform, Maneka’s Closet features a variety of traditional and contemporary Indian outfits.
Instagram and Social Media:
Use Instagram as a tool to discover different brands and designers. Many Indian fashion labels showcase their collections on this platform.
Research and follow Indian fashion influencers for inspiration and recommendations.
Rental Services:
If you’re attending multiple weddings or prefer not to invest in a new outfit, consider rental services. They offer a range of designer pieces for a fraction of the cost.
Explore rental platforms that specialize in Indian wedding attire.
Remember to familiarize yourself with Indian fashion terminology—lehengas, sarees, kurta pajamas, and dhoti sets. Whether you choose to shop locally or online, take your time to find an outfit that resonates with your personal style and the festive spirit of the wedding. Happy shopping!
About Author: Arti Jamwal is an esteemed author and journalist renowned for her insightful articles on Indian ethnic wear. With a keen eye for the vibrant tapestry of India’s traditional attire, Arti’s work has been featured in prestigious publications such as NDTV, The Wire, News Laundry, The Deccan Chronicle, The Times of India, and Outlook. Her writing not only celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Indian fashion but also delves into the intricate details that make each piece unique. Arti’s contributions to the field have made her a respected voice in the world of fashion journalism, where she continues to inspire and educate readers about the beauty and significance of Indian ethnic wear.
Sources: The Knot, Fashion Coached, The Groom Club,Suta
