What to Wear: Indian Wedding Guest Attire Style Guide 2025
A no-judgment, style-forward guide to dressing right without cultural missteps
So you’ve been invited to an Indian wedding. First of all: congratulations. You’re about to witness a kaleidoscope of joy, fashion, music, and yes—an unreasonable amount of food. But let’s get straight to what you really came here for: what on earth are you supposed to wear?
The invite says something like "traditional attire encouraged" and your group chat is useless. One person is Googling "sari tutorial" while another is considering re-wearing a bridesmaid dress from 2017. Cute. But this isn't a Halloween party, babes. Indian weddings are vibrant, sacred, family-packed affairs—and the way you show up matters.
Don’t stress. Laali’s here to hold your hand through the wardrobe anxiety. Let’s make sure you show up looking stunning, respectful, and 0% culturally cringe.
Start Here: What Kind of Indian Wedding Are You Attending?
First things first: "Indian wedding" is a giant umbrella term. Not all Indian weddings look or feel the same. There's a whole spectrum of regional and religious customs—from Hindu, Muslim, and Sikh ceremonies to South Indian, Punjabi, Gujarati, and Bengali traditions.
The good news? You’re not expected to be an anthropologist. Just know that certain events might require specific attire (like covering your head at a Gurdwara or keeping your shoulders covered at a Nikkah), and the color red is usually reserved for the bride.
Tip: When in doubt, ask your host what kind of ceremony it is. They’ll be glad you did.
The Golden Rule: Dress Modestly, Festively, and With Intention
This is not the time for minimalist beige linen or Little Black Dress energy. Indian weddings are the Olympics of celebratory dressing. Bright colors, ornate embroidery, sequins, silks, brocades—bring it on. But also, bring some respect.
Modesty matters, especially at religious events. Cover your shoulders, avoid deep plunges and short hemlines, and when in doubt, add a dupatta (scarf) for extra coverage.
Effort matters too. Even if you’re not South Asian, showing up in culturally appropriate attire is a sign of respect and inclusivity. You don’t have to be perfect, but don’t be that guest in a Forever 21 bodycon dress and a fake bindi. We see you.
The Events & What to Wear to Each
Indian weddings usually span several days, with different vibes for each event. Here’s your cheat sheet:
Haldi
- What it is: A daytime pre-wedding ritual involving turmeric paste, laughter, and a high chance of staining your clothes.
- What to wear:
- Women: Light cotton suits (shalwar kameez), cheerful midi dresses, or anything yellow you don’t mind getting messy.
- Men: Simple cotton kurta with drawstring pants.
- Avoid: White. Turmeric + white = sad laundry story.
Mehendi
- What it is: The bride’s hands get decorated with intricate henna, and everyone celebrates.
- What to wear:
- Women: Bright lehenga, anarkali, or salwar kameez suit. Bonus points for twirl factor.
- Men: Colorful kurta, maybe with a statement jacket.
Sangeet
- What it is: Dance party meets musical showcase meets cousin talent show.
- What to wear:
- Women: Sparkly lehengas, glam sarees, or Indo-fusion gowns.
- Men: Kurta with Nehru jacket or a sleek bandhgala (suit and tie is also okay here).
- Mood: Glitzy, playful, 10/10 Instagram content.
Wedding Ceremony (Shaadi/Nikkah/Vivah, etc.)
- What it is: The main religious or spiritual union.
- What to wear:
- Women: Elegant saree, lehenga, or long dress with Indian accessories.
- Men: Formal kurta, sherwani, or dressy Indo-Western.
- Avoid: White (mourning), black (bad luck), red (bride). Seriously.
Reception
- What it is: The finale—modern, grand, and usually less traditional.
- What to wear:
- Women: Gown, metallic saree, or chic lehenga.
- Men: Suit, tux, or stylish Indo-Western set.
- Mood: Bring the glam. The food coma can wait.
Do I Have to Wear Indian Clothes?
Short answer? No. But if you want to blend in, feel confident, and not look like a wedding crasher, you really should try.
Acceptable options if you’re not going full traditional:
- Women: Full-length dress with Indian jewelry and a dupatta.
- Men: Dark suit with a bold pocket square or a silk stole.
Avoid:
- Calling your outfit a "costume"
- Cultural accessories worn as
aesthetic(like bindis on a strapless gown)
You don’t have to be Desi to dress desi-adjacent. You just have to try.
Where to Shop (or Rent) Your Looks
Online Stores (Global Shipping)
- Lashkaraa – Affordable lehengas and mix-and-match sets
- Pernia’s Pop-Up Shop – Luxe, designer, red carpet ready
- Utsav Fashion – Broad range, good for basics
- Aza Fashions – Trend-forward pieces and curated edits
- Silk & Sparkle – Timeless clothing for all occassions
- House of Kalra – Bridal and partywear clothing in Canada
US-Based Boutiques
- Palkhi Fashions (Houston, Chicago & Online)
- Nazranaa (NJ)
- Manyavar (Houston, Bay Area & Nationwide)
Rentals (because commitment is scary)
- The Riya Collective – Rent designer lehengas and accessories
- Borrow the Bazaar – Great for last-minute rentals
Accessorizing Without the Faux Pas
- Shoes: Closed-toe for ceremonies, glam flats or heels for receptions
- Jewelry: Big earrings, bangles, necklaces—go for it
- Bindis: Only if you understand the context. Optional, not decorative stickers
- Dupatta: Respectful AND chic. Wrap one over your shoulder or head for ceremonies
Quick Fit Check: Dos and Don’ts
Final Thoughts from Laali
P.S. — Packing Checklist for Indian Wedding Guests (Attire Edition)
👚 For Women
👔 For Men
P.P.S. — Laali’s Go-To Shopping Guide
For U.S.-Based Guests (Online & Rental Options)
| Platform | What They’re Great For |
| Lashkaraa | Affordable lehengas, dupattas, matching sets |
| The Riya Collective | Rentals! Designer lehengas and sarees you don’t have to keep |
| Borrow the Bazaar | US-based rental service with trending outfits |
| SANI | Indo-Western fusion fits and cocktail-ready styles |
| Utsav Fashion | Broad selection, solid for basics and accessories |
| Pernia’s Pop-Up Shop | High-end designers, glam sarees, trendy accessories |
| Aza Fashions | Luxe looks for those wanting to go full glam |
In-Person in the U.S.
| City | Top Spots |
| NYC | Samaira, Nyraa, Sabyasachi, Kalaaz |
| Bay Area | Swati Couture, SIYA, Evotique, Shyamal & Bhumika US |
| Houston | Palkhi Fashions, Almas Tejani Collection, Manyavar |
| Chicago | Studio Elite, Taj Sari, Sahil Exclusive, Crossover Chicago |
For International Shoppers
- Libas e Jamila (UK-based, ships globally)
- Diya Online (budget-friendly, UK-based)
- Seasons India (Mumbai-based, international delivery)
🧠 Laali’s Tips:
- Always read sizing guides and look for outfits with adjustable ties or elastic waists (lehenga lifesavers)
- Factor in 2–3 weeks for shipping, especially if tailoring is involved
- Don’t forget customs duties if you’re ordering internationally—surprise fees aren’t cute
Desi Weddings
Find Culturally Capable Vendors
You’re not just having a wedding, you’re having a South Asian wedding. From hosting multiple events to incorporating ancient traditions, there’s a lot that will make your wedding unique. With Laali, you can find vendors who get it and have experience making South Asian weddings spectacular!
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