Perfect Indian Wedding Outfit Generator
If youíve been invited to your first ever Indian wedding you may be totally baffled by the number of ceremonies stretching over several days. If youíre wondering about appropriate Indian wedding guest outfits then this guide to what to wear to Indian weddings will make things much easier. If youíre an Indian wedding guest extraordinaire with many notches in your Indian wedding guest belt then you know that the question of Indian wedding guest outfits requires meticulous advance planning. However this guide is likely to get things moving quickly for you too.
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Who Are You?
Female Guest
Male Guest
Family of Couple
Bridesmaids
Occasion
An Indian wedding typically involves 4-5 ceremonies with each ceremony requiring everyone to strut their stuff in a different outfit. For the ease of figuring out what to wear to an Indian wedding ceremony below is a brief description of the celebrations.
Engagement
Haldi
Sangeet
Mehendi
Baraat
Wedding
Reception
Mehendi
The mehendi or henna ceremony is undoubtedly meant for women and the lovely men who care enough about the ladies in their life to patiently hold their bags, open doors and even feed them as the wedding mehendi designs dry on their hands. Even though there is no way we would want the painstakingly created mehendi designs to be ruined by one careless brush of a hand, the little extra TLC is a lovely added bonus.
Read MoreEngagement
An Indian engagement ceremony is one that is often the most varied of all the wedding celebrations. Traditionally the engagement ceremony was held at one of the betrothedís homes and was attended only by their parents, grandparents and siblings. Depending on the cultural and religious backgrounds of the couple the engagement ceremony is either held as close as a few days to as far as a few years before the actual wedding.
Read MoreHaldi
The literal English translation of Haldi is Turmeric, a commonly used yellow hued Indian spice used in nearly all Indian cooking. However its use in Indian wedding ceremonies is more for its ability to brighten the skin. The ceremony is held separately for the bride and groom by their nearest and dearest and is often more geared towards the ladies. Haldi ceremony dresses for the soon-to-be newly weds are often simple colourful garments with no ostentation and bling.
Read MoreSangeet
The Sangeet or Bollywood dancing night as the name suggests is all about cutting loose and firing up the dance floor with your best hip thrusts and booty shakes. The evening usually involves the entire family including older family members so it is imperative to ensure that dresses for the sangeet ceremony worn by female guests are both trendy and respectful.
Read MoreBaraat
Baraat is the name given to the groom's wedding procession, in which the groom travels to the venue or bride's house atop a horse, led by his friends and family. The groom and his horse are covered in finery to express the gravity of the occasion and the groom sometimes even carries a ceremonial sword.
Read MoreWedding
The traditional wedding ceremony involves various symbolic rituals and some big promises. The wedding ceremony is meant to integrate the lives of the couple and their two families. The ceremony is written in Sanskrit, one of the oldest languages in the world, and is a joyous occasion for everyone involved.
Read MoreReception
Many Indian couples are doing away with the reception in its original version and choosing to have formal sit down dinners instead. Itís also fairly common for urban brides and their close female guests to wear Indian evening gowns for the wedding reception with intricate embellishments and western cuts, making the occasion very similar to a western wedding reception.
Read MoreSuggestions
What to wear
The mehendi ceremony will involve lots of sitting while the henna is applied. It is therefore essential for mehendi outfits to be lightweight, and comfortable. It is also a good idea to choose an outfit with the type of mehendi design that you want in mind because you will of course what great photos to look back on!
We recommend wearing flowy anarkalis or line suits in bright colours to match the joyous occasion, paired with light-weight jewellery and accessories such as a Maang tikka, earrings, a cuff and a polti bag. Flats and mojris are the ideal footwear if you're looking for maximum comfort!
What not to wear
Heavily embroidered outfits, long sleeves and capes are all best avoided because they will interfere with the application of the mehendi design.
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What to wear
The engagement ceremony tends to be a more low-key affair, that doesn't involve any dancing or messy customs. As a result you can be a bit more experimental and relaxed with your outfit choice. Just keep in mind that Indian gowns and outfits for the engagement must not overshadow the bride or groom, offend anyone’s sensibilities or be over-the-top for a simple do.
A-line lehengas and flowy gowns are always a good choice for an engagement ceremony, especially if you are not planning on wearing a lehenga to the wedding. Engagement ceremony outfits leave more room for creativity, so wearing something that shows off your personality and makes a statement is a good bet.
Lehengas and gowns are best accessorised with bangles or bracelets, earrings and a necklace to create a sophisticated look. Clutch bags are a stylish, yet practical option that mean you won't have to leave your essentials behind. Stilettos and wedges are always a good option if you want to give your look some extra oomph.
What not to wear
Suits are best avoided for an engagement ceremony because they are usually worn for more casual functions, so would not be appropriate. Sarees are also rarely seen at an engagement because the ceremony is no longer a tradition function, so people usually prefer to go for something more contemporary.
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What to wear
Haldi is a particularly messy ceremony and the urban paste tends to go everywhere, so wearing an outfit that is easy to clean or is a colour that will hide any unwanted ubtan paste, such as yellow, is probably a good idea!
The close female guests in attendance may wear brightly coloured anarkalis for the haldi function or go for simple suits in equally flamboyant tones. suits and anarkalis look best when pair with more subtle and dainty earrings and necklaces. Flower jewellery is a very popular option at the moment, especially roses, marigolds and mogras. Flats, wedges or mojris would be the post comfortable footwear to finish off your outfit.
What not to wear
Gowns and heavy lehengas are best left at home for this occasion as they run the risk of getting easily stained by the urban paste because of the excess material and may make you feel to over-dressed.
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What to wear
The sangeet ceremony entails lots of music, singing and dancing, so wear something that is light and free-flowing for ease of movement and maximum comfort!
We recommend wearing stylised saree, and flowing lehengas and gowns because these make you look elegant while you're dancing, bring the right level of gravitas to the occasion and will keep you nice and cool. Cut outs, high-low hems and out-of-the-box drapes are all on trend right now for designer dresses for the sangeet ceremony.
If you decide to go with a formal dress or gown, they look best when complimented with women can wear gowns and style them with contemporary style earrings or a pendant set. Wedges and flats are your best bet as far as footwear is concerned because they will be the most comfortable when dancing for long periods of time.
What not to wear
We would advise against wearing Anarkalis, straight suits, or anything else that will restrict movement or that could get caught up with your feet. They are also slightly too casual for such an important occasion.
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What to wear
The reception is the part where you can truly relax and have a good time, so wear something comfortable and stylish that shows you are ready to party.
Dress for the occasion in a floor length gown or saree gown. With either of these options you are sure to make an impression and also find your confidence.
Accessorise your outfit with a dazzling clutch, stilettos and contemporary jewellery to get that wow effect. However, if you find stilettos to uncomfortable, embroidered or embellished wedges are your best option.
What not to wear
Leave your A-line kurtas and suits at home. The reception is one of the key events of the wedding and as such is a more formal function, and neither of the aforementioned attires suit the occasion.
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What to wear
The wedding ceremony is the main event that all the other ceremonies lead to, so remember to go all out for this. Choose something that will be striking and elegant.
What to wear: It is important to wear something that expresses the importance of the wedding ceremony, so we would recommend wear a floor-length anarkali, lehenga or saree.
Stylise your traditional attire with heavy gold or diamond jewellery. A Kundan neckpiece set with earrings is always a good way to go, and a clutch. otherwise you can create your own jewellery set using a traditional necklace, earrings, maang tikka, bindi, bangles and a clutch. A pair of heels, wedges or mojris are a good choice of footwear.
What not to wear
Since the wedding ceremony is very formal and traditional, guests are expected to wear their smartest attire, so A-Line Kurtas, suits and western gowns are a definite no-no, as they'd make you stick out like a sore thumb!
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What to wear
A lot of people are going to be there, so you will notice that people do dress up, but it is a comfortable kind of dressing up to accommodate the dancing and movement. A change of outfit after the baraat is over is usually planned for given that you are likely to be sweating after all the dancing.
A Lehenga or a relaxed top and bottom combination are usually preferred options. Since dancing is involved, select styling that both accentuates your moves and is well fitted. Feel free to experiment with bright colours or a style that is vibrant in look. Cuts can be conservative as you are likely to be dancing amongst family and friends of all age groups.
What not to wear
Avoid tightly fitted clothing that might restrict movement. Cuts that are too flattering or revealing could also be avoided because of the presence of family members of all age groups. Outfits that have a lot of flowing parts or loose ends (if these cannot be pinned in or tucked in) are also best avoided.
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What to wear
You will be awfully glad for another low-key event more centred on the ladies especially if it follows a raucous night of dancing and debauchery at the Sangeet. However that doesn’t mean you can just roll out of bed and attend a Mehendi ceremony.
Short or long linen kurtas with salwaars or printed cotton kurtas with churidhars work great for the minimal yet stylish look required at the Mehendi ceremony.
A kerchief in the side pocket or interesting buttons on the kurta can really elevate the entire look.
What not to wear
Formal shirts and trousers that will make you look too boring and dated.
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What to wear
Even though engagement ceremonies vary in their scale from large gatherings to cozy dos for close knit friends and family, it’s always best to avoid being overdressed and fly under the radar instead.
Male guests can choose from a plethora of kurtas with churidhaar or patiala pants which are the perfect option when aiming to dress formally and appropriately without being garish and flamboyant.
If you want to add some flair to your ensemble, style your kurta with a printed or contrast coloured scarf or a long stole. The scarf can be tied in a number of creative ways while the long stole can be worn loosely around the neck.
What not to wear
Sherwanis are way too formal for the engagement ceremony and are meant more for the groom than the guests.
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What to wear
As a guest at the Haldi, you are not necessarily going to be part of the ceremonial processes, but it is likely that you might get some of the paste put on your face, so it is best to be prepared. Simple and elegant traditional clothes are the perfect pick for the event.An elegantly coloured kurta set is the ideal pick for the event. Lighter toned colours are a good choice normally, but you can equally try pastels shades or neutral tones.
If you are looking not to dress up in traditional clothes, then even formal clothes like a shirt and trousers are appropriate for the ceremony. Select lighter shades of shirts or stripes or checked.
What not to wear
Avoid clothes that are too dressy, as they are likely to be out of place. Very bright colours or heavily embroidered are best avoided.
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What to wear
If you happen to have the dance moves of Hritik Roshan and Shahid Kapoor then it’s time to bust them out and watch the ladies swoon. The ultimate goal of sangeet dressing should be sophistication and ease of movement because let’s face it there is no escaping grooving to those foot-tapping dance numbers.
Indo-western suits with short structured jackets and trousers or Patiala pants make for excellent sangeet dressing outfits. Pick jackets with luxurious fabrics and immaculate cuts over too much embroidery to avoid ending up in a heavy and bulky outfit.
Adding an Indian style cravat or scarf around the collar of your jacket can really make the entire look pop.
What not to wear
Heavily embellished sherwanis and super long jackets that make it difficult to dance.
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What to wear
The last function of an Indian wedding is often a more westernized affair. Some couples also choose to enforce dress codes for the reception that can range from wearing a specific colour to dressing in black tie.
Suits perfectly compliment a western formal evening as do well fitted and accessorised blazers. For more traditional style receptions you can choose to wear Indo-western or Nehru jackets in dark colours.
If you choose to wear a suit, finish off the look with some cufflinks and a tiepin or bow tie to look oh-so-dapper. However if you’re planning to don ethnic attire then pick contemporary colours like indigo blue or steel grey.
What not to wear
Avoid very casual clothing like cotton kurtas, formal work shirts, printed t-shirts and jeans.
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What to wear
After the craziness of the baraat it’s time to cool down and be respectful for the wedding ceremony, so remember to always wear clothes in keeping with the religions and customs of both families.
Pastel coloured sherwanis with minimal embroidery never go out of style. Nehru jackets with trousers are another classic alternative if a sherwani is a bit much for you. If you want to stand out from the crowd get a little creative with your pastels and opt for colours like mint green or dusty rose rather than the overdone whites and creams.
You can even wear layer your jackets with a simple inner jacket and stylish outer jacket for something more fashion forward.
What not to wear
Jeans and tees are extremely casual and not appropriate for the formality associated with the wedding ceremony.
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What to wear
The Baraat is one of the highlights of the weddings, especially on the day of the wedding. If you represent the groom, then be prepared for a lot of dancing. If you are from the bride’s side of the family, then you are likely to have a quieter ceremony, with the possibility of being pulled into the celebrations (and of course dancing!) towards the latter part of the ceremony.
A lot of people are going to be there, so you will notice that people do dress up, but it is a “comfortable” dressing up to accommodate the dancing and movement. A change of outfit after the baraat is over is usually planned for given that you are likely to be sweating after all the dancing.
Aim to wear relaxed fit traditional clothes. Gents can wear a Kurta that is not heavily embellished but is vibrant in colour. Depending on the specific community of the couple, you are likely to also be wearing a Turban (also called Safa) that is either Pink or Orange or some other vibrant colour. Make sure your footwear does not hurt and you are comfortable - the last thing you need is sore feet to interrupt your dancing. Some men might even opt to wear a formal shirt and trousers instead of traditional garb.
What not to wear
Fitted clothing that might restrict movement is best avoided. Don’t wear your most elaborate outfit for this part of the wedding, given the amount of movement. Sherwanis are very rare to see during a baraat, so avoid these.
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What to wear
The mehendi is another wedding ceremony that is geared towards ladies. However, the presence of male guests will be required to assist them as they wait patiently for their henna to dry.
Female relatives typically apply henna before the other guests arrive so that they can then mingle and enjoy the ceremony. Flowing net or georgette lehengas with sparse embellishment in prints or flamboyant colours work beautifully with the whole vibe of a henna ceremony. If you find lehengas a little cumbersome then go for draped tunics with leggings. Keep the jewellery at a minimum and go for a dainty necklace and earring set or elegant long earrings paired with a handled bag so you don’t have to hold it all the time.
Male relatives should be dressed in outfits that allow them freedom of movement to be able to help other female guests. Bandhi jackets with kurtas and trousers as well as printed kurta suits are both super trendy yet practical options.
What not to wear
White or light coloured outfits that can be easily ruined by henna stains. Also avoid any clothing and accessories that require constant adjustments.
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What to wear
The engagement ceremony is essentially an introduction and meeting of both sides of the couple’s family. Given that it is the first time you will be meeting your soon-to-be relatives it is always prudent to play it safe and take the conservative route. As family members you should also always be mindful of not upstaging the bride or groom by being over dressed.
Female relatives can wear simple and lightweight lehengas or sarees with minimal embellishments for more formal functions. Slightly heavier anarkali churidhars or kurta suits would suffice for smaller more intimate ceremonies. It’s best to keep the jewellery and accessories understated and elegant to suit the mood of the function.
Male relatives can opt for brightly coloured silk kurtas or bandhi jackets paired with fitted churidhars, trousers or salwaars.
What not to wear
Conservative doesn’t mean you have to dress in only traditional outfits but a little bit of restraint with regards to overly skimpy outfits for women is necessary to avoid offending anyone (especially older relatives).
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What to wear
Since the haldi ceremony is predominantly for female relatives and creates a bit of a mess, it’s best to dress in outfits that allow you to move around effortlessly but also look chic and appropriate.
It’s not uncommon for older female relatives to wear traditional sarees as they are more habituated to moving around in the six metres of draping than their less mature counterparts. While the more fashion forward or younger female relatives can pick colourful printed or plain tunics paired with palazzos or leggings. Stick to wearing only a statement neckpiece or earrings and pairing it with a long strap clutch or potli bag. Avoid any hand jewellery to prevent it from being ruined with the turmeric paste.
Close male relatives also partake in the rituals so it doesn’t mean you can get away with wearing your trustee jeans and tee without a few raised eyebrows. If you really want to get into the mood of the ceremony then don a cotton kurta and salwaar for a comfy yet trendy alternative.
What not to wear
Anything too embellished and tight-fitting must be avoided for both women and men.
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What to wear
The sangeet ceremony is synonymous with copious amounts of dancing and a lot of socialising and is therefore the function that kicks the wedding festivities into high gear. Since this ceremony requires you to be on your feet a lot, it is best to wear comfortable shoes and loose garments.
Female relatives can take this opportunity to wear beautifully embellished outfits in evening colours and contemporary silhouettes, as it’s almost always a nocturnal affair. Voluminous lehengas with crop tops, jacket lehengas, crystal embroidered sarees or pre-stitched embroidered gowns make for ideal outfit choices for the sangeet. Fine jewellery sets with bangles or cuffs could be paired for added glamour.
Male relatives can also get more flamboyant with their dressing by donning Indo-western style fitted jackets and trousers or kurtas paired with dhoti pants.
What not to wear
Uncomfortable shoes, high heels and extremely heavy outfits are really going to put a dampener on your party spirit if you plan on dancing until the wee hours of the night.
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What to wear
The reception will boast the maximum number of guests and it also the best opportunity to get experimental and creative with your outfits. You will be required to meet and greet a lot of people so pick something that really reflects your personal style.
Female relatives can pick from myriad of modern and fusion styles like saree-gowns, lehengas with pre-stitched dupattas, cocktail sarees and draped gowns. Choose your jewellery and accessories wisely depending on the flamboyance of your outfit. Pair decadent jewellery with more toned down outfits or more delicate and elegant jewellery with dressier outfits. Finish off the look with some interesting accessories like hand harnesses and headgear and don’t forget some luscious high heels and a compact clutch.
Male relatives can choose from classic black suits and tuxedos for those who prefer going completely modern. But if you have your heart set on something ethnic inspired then opt for Nehru jackets with trousers or dhoti pants for a seamless combination of traditional and contemporary.
What not to wear
Anything too casual like jeans, simple tunics, kurti sets or regular work wear just doesn’t work with the tone and ambience of a formal Indian wedding reception.
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What to wear
The wedding is the main event for the family of the couple, as they will be required to participate in the rituals and ceremonies. Everyone must dress as per the customs and traditions of the ceremony based on their own religious and cultural background.
Older female relatives can wear hand-woven or embroidered sarees in opulent fabrics. Younger or more modern ladies may wear heavily embellished lehengas or contemporary sarees in various colours. This is also the function to go all out ethnic with your jewellery and accessories so wear complete kundan sets with bangles and maang tikkas or jhumars. It’s important to carry a bag or clutch large enough for all your essentials.
Male relatives must also dress to impress in sherwanis, jodhpuri jackets and bandhgalas. Cream, beige and white are extremely popular choices for wedding attire for men but there is no stopping you from picking something brightly coloured or printed.
What not to wear
Indecent outfits likely to upset older relatives and disrespect the wedding ceremony rituals are absolutely forbidden. Certain families also don’t appreciate wearing black for the auspicious occasion.
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What to wear
After so many ceremonies dedicated mostly to the ladies it’s only fair that the men have their turn in the spotlight and there is no better opportunity than the baraat. This isn’t to say that women cannot partake and dance their hearts out but more often than not it’s the men who steal the show and many hearts.
Light and comfortable are the operative words to describe Baraat outfits for both male and female relatives. Most weddings will ensure time for a quick outfit change between the baraat and the wedding especially for the family.
Ladies can go for easy silhouettes like straight line tunics paired with palazzo trousers or sweet and simple lehengas that look both classy and graceful while dancing. If you want to avoid the bother of chunky neckpieces then opt for high neck outfits and stick with statement earrings, cuffs and rings. Wear flats as you groove to the live music to ensure that your feet still feel fresh for the ceremony and reception.
Men, it’s your chance to really show off some moves and impress the ladies. A cotton kurta and churidhar are your best bet to guarantee you’re not feeling too hot while you’re dancing and are able to enjoy yourselves.
What not to wear
Avoid heavy fabrics like silk, over the top embroideries and bulky accessories unless you want to be sitting in the corner and missing all the fun.
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What to wear
If the bride plans to apply her henna on the same day then you will be called upon to assist her so plan carefully and apply you own henna either before or after hers. Also ensure that what you wear doesn’t affect your ability to carry out your bridesmaid duties.
Outfits in luscious colours such as layered tunics with leggings or lightly embroidered anarkali kurtas work wonderfully for the mehendi. High neck kurtas or tunics can be worn without dupattas for added ease. Team up these outfits with long neckpieces or earrings.
What not to wear
Long churidhar sleeves, capes and draped dupattas run the risk of getting stained by yours or someone else’s henna. Remember to remove any hand jewellery while your mehendi is being applied.
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What to wear
When choosing what to wear to the engagement ceremony, dress according to the scale of the function.
Tastefully trendy outfits such as silk tunics with unconventional cuts and palazzo trousers or anarkali churidhars in silks and brocades can be dressed up or down with jewellery and accessories.
Small intimate ceremonies call for a minimalistic approach so opt for smaller pieces of jewellery, mid high heels and a classic clutch bag.
Large formal events might require you to wear matching outfits with the other bridesmaids similar to a wedding. If not, you can always pair your outfit with larger statement jewellery, high heels and a dressy clutch bag.
What not to wear
Lehengas and sarees with heavy embroidery are better suited to bigger ceremonies.
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What to wear
It’s best to pick fuss free and easy to wear outfits for the haldi so you can really get into all the merriment of slathering the bride with turmeric paste.
As the haldi ceremony is largely traditional you can pick tunics, kurtas and anarkalis in ethnic prints and colours. Team up your outfits with only one or two pieces of jewellery to keep the entire look light, cheerful and fun.
What not to wear
Avoid very modern or bulky silhouettes and take off rings and bracelets to prevent damage from the turmeric paste.
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What to wear
The sangeet is the time get on the dance floor and let your hair down for the most fun ceremony of the entire wedding, so keep this in mind when choosing your footwear.
Draped gowns offer all the drama of a saree without the hassle and fear of coming undone while high waist lehengas with cut out crop tops are the ethnic equivalent. Both styles are perfect for when you want to look extremely fashion forward without being constrained on the dance floor.
If you can’t imagine attending an important occasion in flats then pick medium high or wedge heels for a more comfortable option. Add some bling with matching jewellery and a small bag for your essentials.
What not to wear
Towering high heels are a tad much and too uncomfortable for the sangeet while simple kurtas and anarkalis are too casual and therefore not suitable for the occasion.
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What to wear
If you’re a true stylist then you’re probably itching to get out of those matching outfits and stand out from the crowd again at the reception.
Dress to impress in completely contemporary colour blocked draped gowns or new age style lehengas with cape blouses. You can choose to wear traditional jewellery or trendy statement pieces based on your own style preferences.
What not to wear
Avoid over the top ethnic ensembles or saucy western outfits that might result in disapproving looks from elder relatives.
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What to wear
It has become customary for bridesmaids to wear matching outfits at the wedding ceremony as an indicator that you are part of the wedding party.
If the bride gives you the freedom to pick your own outfits but to follow a particular colour scheme or if you’ve been given the task of selecting the outfit for all bridesmaids then make your selection based on styles that will flatter all the girls’ shapes and sizes.
Lehengas with cholis in pastel colours and conventional sarees in bright colours are timeless classics that never look dated and make every woman look flawless. You can pair your style staples with complete kundan jewellery sets, bangles and headgear to look like a total ethnic goddess.
What not to wear
Anything that takes the focus away from the bride or that she strongly dislikes. It’s her big day and as bridesmaid you must ensure that she has the time of her life.
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What to wear
Since the baraat is only for the groom’s friends and family, chances are that bridesmaids will have to accompany the bride while she waits and won’t be able to participate in the ceremony.
However if you absolutely cannot imagine attending an Indian wedding without shaking a leg at the baraat then plan ahead and carry a change of clothes. Sweaty clothes do not make for cute pictures and as a bridesmaid you are likely to appear in a lot of them.
Play it cool and trendy by choosing sleeveless or cap sleeve kurta sets in flowing fabrics. Avoid any accessories and jewellery or wear the bare minimum, as you will be required to change quickly into your wedding outfit.
What not to wear
Outfits that are too tight or uncomfortable and stitched in heavy fabrics with a lot of embellishments.
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