Best Ways to Dress in Indian Wedding as Guest

Introduction

Attending an Indian wedding is all about color, culture, and celebration. But figuring out the best ways to dress in Indian wedding as guest can be tricky! Whether you prefer a saree, lehenga, or Indo-Western look, this guide will help you pick the perfect outfit for every occasion.

Understanding Indian Wedding Dress Codes

Key Colors to Wear and Avoid

rich blues
greens
golds
Red

Do not go with Black, White, or very Light colors. Red should also be avoided as it is reserved for Brides.

Best Ways to Dress in Indian Wedding as Guest

For female Guests

The Sari

The sari stands as a symbol of elegance and womanhood.

They come in fabrics like silk, cotton, georgette, and are designed with embroidery or zari work.

Styling your sari with a modest blouse with decent necklines and backs will give you style that’s both genuine and respectful for special occasions

Lehenga Choli

Lehenga Choli is a popular choice. It’s a two-piece design with a short blouse known as the “choli” and a high-waisted skirt, known as the lehenga . It gives comfort, which is best while dancing. To enhance your outfit. When wearing a lehenga choli at events, also attached with embroidered Dupattas or a tikka. Wearing Indian outfit will not only make you noticeably fashionable, but also pay Respect to the culture.

Anarkali Suit

The Anarkali suit is a long, frock-style top, often pair up with slim pants or leggings, making it a popular choice in Indian fashion.

Choose color based on event type and time:

Occasion	Ideal Colors
Day Wedding	Pastels, peach, mint green, blush pink, ivory
Evening Wedding	Maroon, navy blue, emerald green, deep purple
Mehendi/Sangeet	Bright yellow, fuchsia, turquoise, orange
Reception	Gold, champagne, midnight blue, wine

For Male Guests

Wearing traditional Indian attire allows men to showcase a royal elegance while honoring the country’s rich cultural heritage. Outfits like Indo-western kurtas, sherwanis, and Bandhgala suits are popular choices that not only capture the grandeur of the occasion but also let men express their individuality, all while respecting traditional values.

Kurta Pajama Sets

At Indian weddings, kurta pajama sets are a go-to choice for male guests, offering a perfect balance of comfort and class . These outfits are often made from light cotton or rich silk fabrics, ensuring you stay stylish . To raise the look, many pair them with bundi or achkan jackets, complemented by traditional accessories like brooches, pocket squares, or sashes.

When it comes to embroidered kurtas, bold color choices such as jewel tones and striking contrasts are especially popular, adding a vibrant and festive touch to the set. Choosing this classic Indian outfit ensures that you look stunning while staying comfortable throughout the celebrations.

Sherwani

A sherwani is often seen as a symbol of royalty and tradition, making it a great choice for formal wedding events. Made from rich fabrics like silk or brocade, it has a modish look. Wearing heritage jewelry with it adds a nice traditional touch.

At an Indian wedding, wearing a well-fitted sherwani helps you stand out while also showing respect for cultural traditions. It reflects your respect for Indian style and is especially suited for important events like the main wedding ceremony and other key rituals during the celebration.

Bandhgala Suit

The Jodhpuri suit, also known as the Bandhgala, is a good choice for formal occasions. It blends traditional Indian style with a modern touch, making it a smart and stylish option for wedding events. It works well for all kinds of wedding functions.

To make the outfit stand out even more, you may add accessories like pocket squares, waistcoats, or a traditional turban. Wearing a Bandhgala helps you look shiny, whether it’s the main wedding ceremony or any other celebration that follows.

Dressing for Different Indian Wedding Events

From the informal Haldi ceremony to the vibrant Sangeet celebration and the formal wedding ceremony, each event within the wedding festivities calls for distinct attire. Let us explore the appropriate dress codes for each occasion to ensure you are suitably prepared for the entire wedding season and its associated celebrations.

Haldi Ceremony

The Haldi ceremony is an important pre-wedding event where both the bride and groom are covered with turmeric paste. This tradition is meant to cleanse them and bring blessings for their new life together. Guests usually wear yellow clothes to match the color of turmeric. Or any specific theme, if given by the host. Women often choose outfits like salwar kameez, anarkali suits, or light kurtis, while men usually wear kurta pyjamas.

Since turmeric can leave stains, it’s a good idea to wear casual, easy-to-clean fabrics like linen. This way, everyone can enjoy the celebration without worrying about ruining their clothes.

Sangeet Party

The Sangeet is one of the most fun and lively parts of an Indian wedding, full of music, dance, and celebration. Guests usually wear outfits like lehengas or pre-draped saris that are stylish yet comfortable, so they can dance freely and enjoy the night.

When choosing what to wear, go for something that lets you move easily but still looks elegant. Bold colors, detailed embroidery, and fun patterns are perfect for this occasion. It’s your time to shine on the dance floor—so dress in something that stands out and lets you enjoy every moment!

Wedding Ceremony

The wedding ceremony is the most formal part of the celebrations, so it’s important to dress in traditional and respectful clothing. Women usually wear saris or lehengas, while men can go for Indian outfits like churidars or a bundi set.

During the ceremony, it’s common to take off your shoes and cover your head as a sign of respect.

Keep your jewelry and makeup simple to match the traditional vibe. Since the ceremony and celebrations can go on for a while, wearing comfortable shoes will help you enjoy everything without discomfort.

Accessories to Complete Your Indian Wedding Guest Look

Jewelry Choices

FOR FEMALES

Adorning a saree and lehenga choli with accessories like a choker or a layered necklace with matching jhumkas or chandbalis. Add bangles and consider a maang tikkaa or waist belt for a festive touch. Keep the jewelry according to your saree’s design.

With an Anarkali suit, choose jewelry like chandelier earrings or jhumkas paired with a delicate long chain or choker. A small maang tikka with the look. Keep it elegant with a few bangles or a ring to maintain the vibe of the outfit.

FOR MALES

To give a royal look to your outfits, you can add accessories like a simple/classy watch, a matching turban or safa, and a pearl or beaded necklace (mala) Footwear

Selecting the appropriate shoes is important for both comfort and style, since Indian weddings require a long time of standing and dancing while wearing heavy clothes.

Footwears

FOR FEMALES

With saris: go with heels or kolhapuris. Avoid flats unless the saree is pre-stitched.

With lehanga choli: go for juttis, block heels, or embroidered sandals

With Anarkali Suit: Pair with mojris, kitten heels, or flats

FOR MALES

With kurta pajama: Pair with classic mojaris or kolhapuri sandals

With sherwani: Opt for embroidered juttis, mojaris, or formal loafers

With Bandhgala suit: go for leather loafers, oxfords, or velvet slip-ons

Where to Buy or Rent Indian Wedding Outfits

Online Stores

You can buy Indian wedding clothes from local stores, designer shops, or big shopping markets. Online stores like Aza, Carma, Manyavar, Fabindia, and Nykaa Fashion also have great options.

Renting outfits

If you only need the outfit for one day, renting is a smart and budget-friendly idea. Websites like Flyrobe, Rent An Attire, and Stage3 let you rent lehengas, sherwanis, and more at lower prices.

Whether you’re buying or renting, make sure to plan early so you have time for any fitting or changes!

Wedding Guest Attire Examples by Dress Code

1) Black Tie Wedding

Women: Floor-length gowns in rich fabrics like silk or satin. Pair with heels, statement jewelry, and a clutch.
Men: A black tuxedo with a white dress shirt, black bow tie, formal shoes, and optional cufflinks.

This dress code is all about looking classy—perfect for a glamorous evening celebration.

2) Formal Wedding Attire

Women: Floor-length gowns, sarees and lehengas work well. Choose fabrics like chiffon, georgette, or silk withl accessories and heels.
Men: A well-tailored suit with a dress shirt and tie is ideal. You can also wear a bandhgala or a simple sherwani for an Indian formal look.

Stick to classic styles and avoid anything too casual or flashy to keep it refined and respectful.

3) Cocktail

Women: Go for knee-length dresses, stylish sarees, or lighter lehengas with cuts . Add heels, a clutch, and bold accessories.
Men: A smart suit or blazer with dress pants and a collared shirt works well. You can skip the tie , stylish look with loafers or formal shoes.

This dress code is all about looking polished yet party-ready!

4) Semi-Formal Wedding

Women: Choose a flowy dress, a simple saree, a light lehenga, or an elegant salwar suit. Comfortable heels or flats.
Men: A button-down shirt with dress pants and a blazer . You can also wear a kurta with a Nehru jacket .

Think neat, stylish, and event-appropriate—without going over the top.

5) Beach/Destination

Women: Flowy maxi dresses, light sarees, or pastel lehengas in breathable fabrics like chiffon or cotton are great choices. Pair with sandals and minimal jewelry.
Men: Linen shirts, light kurtas, or casual suits with loafers or sandals.

Think easy, airy, and elegant—perfect for sun, sand, and celebration!

6) Casual Wedding Attire

Women: Simple sarees, cotton suits, kurtis with palazzos, or light lehengas are perfect. Stick to cheerful colors and pair with minimal jewelry and comfy sandals.
Men: Go for a plain or printed kurta with pajamas or trousers. A short Nehru jacket can add a touch of style without being too formal.

Keep it comfortable and classy—ideal for daytime or smaller wedding functions.

FAQ

What are the best colors to wear to an Indian wedding?

What should I wear to the Haldi ceremony?

Are there any specific accessories I should consider for an Indian wedding?

Where can I buy or rent Indian wedding outfits?