Those unsure of what to wear to an Indian wedding can try four considerations to build the best Indian wedding attire while remaining respectful. This article will also discuss the dos and don’ts, including the colors you shouldn’t wear to an Indian wedding, and how a non-Indian wedding guest can dress appropriately.
We recommend browsing our blog for more wedding outfit guides to help you decide on a guest attire for specific wedding cultures. For example, you might also be interested in knowing what to wear to a Pakistani wedding.
What Do Guests Wear To An Indian Wedding?
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Consider traditional Indian wedding attire
A guest could remain culturally appropriate by wearing classic Indian wedding outfits. This can mean a traditional Indian two-piece attire called lehenga for female wedding guests or a sherwani jacket with matching pants for male guests.
Besides lehenga, another popular attire that female guests can wear for Indian weddings is the saree, a fabric draped from the shoulders to ankles. If you don’t like skirts, you can also consider wide-leg pants called sharara with a tunic top called kurti.
Male guests can also opt for a long-sleeved kurti if they prefer it over the long sherwani jacket. Regardless, both wedding attire for male and female guests are adorned with interesting colors, patterns, prints, and embellishments.
It should be easy to find these traditional Indian outfits in Indian markets in the US. You can also consult someone from the wedding party to help you select a specific Indian clothing piece suitable for the wedding.
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Maintain modesty on your Indian wedding guest outfit
If you’re attending a traditional Indian wedding, modesty is essential to remain respectful. This means having an accessory to cover your head, whether you’re a man or a woman.
This is expected if you’re attending a Hindu or Sikh Indian wedding. Male guests can use a handkerchief, while female guests can use a scarf called the dupatta or the fabric from the saree to cover their heads during the ceremony.
With modesty being essential, remember never to wear any wedding outfit that will show your arms, shoulders, or legs. For example, perhaps you’re wearing Western clothes to an Indian wedding.
You must avoid sexy outfits or those too fitted against the body. Women must wear something covering the cleavage, shoulders, arms, and legs, while men will be more appropriate with long-sleeve shirts or suits with trousers if they didn’t find traditional Indian clothing pieces.
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Keep comfort in mind when attending an Indian wedding
Besides modesty, you want to wear an outfit you’ll be comfortable with for an Indian wedding. For example, Sikh wedding ceremonies have guests sitting on the floor, so your wedding attire shouldn’t get too short when you’re cross-legged on the floor.
You might also be close to the groom, which means you’ll perform a processional dance. Expect that you’ll be on your feet for extended periods, so opt for comfortable but appropriate footwear such as flats and sandals.
Women can read how to wear flat shoes to a wedding to avoid discomfort throughout the Indian wedding. You can also bring a comfortable pair with you to change in at the reception.
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Wear the right wedding guest accessories for an Indian wedding
Indian weddings are known for colors and gorgeous patterns compared to other weddings that often follow a monochromatic or neutral palette. That being said, don’t be afraid to accessorize to make your Indian wedding guest attire more appropriate for the occasion.
You can opt for ornate jewelry pieces like necklaces, earrings, and even bangles. Your bag can also be beaded and adorned to enhance your plain-looking Indian wedding attire.
What Color Should You Not Wear To An Indian Wedding?
As a wedding guest, avoid the colors black, white, and red when creating your outfit for an Indian wedding. Black is unfavorable, especially for traditional Indian weddings, while white is associated with funerals.
Red is also the traditional Indian bridal wear, so it’s best to avoid the bride out of respect. Read what colors should you not wear to a wedding for more etiquette tips.
What To Wear To An Indian Wedding If You’re Not Indian
If you’re not Indian and you’re unsure what to wear to an Indian wedding, it’s best to ask the bride or groom or their wedding party for recommendations. Sometimes, Western traditional wedding attire like suits and long dresses are acceptable as long as they’re modest.
You can also opt for traditional Indian wedding outfits like the saree, sharara, sherwani, or kurti. Just remember the colors to avoid and never wear anything sexy.
Furthermore, do your research about the specific Indian wedding ceremony they’re having. It can be Hindu or Sikh, so you must remain respectful when attending.
Conclusion
Was this outfit guide helpful? We just learned what to wear to an Indian wedding where you can try traditional Indian wedding attire or even Western outfits as long as they’re modest and respectful.
When in doubt, you can always ask someone close to the bride and groom to help you build an outfit. Don’t forget to keep comfort in mind and avoid red, black, and white colors.