If you’re lucky enough to be invited to an Indian wedding, one of the first thoughts that likely comes to mind is: “What am I going to wear?” Thanks to the beautiful, made-to-order approach of clothing that’s often considered appropriate for Indian wedding guest attire, it’s a very reasonable question.
“The minute you get the save-the-date from the couple, start working on the clothes,” advises Nisha Kundnani, founder and creative director of Bridelan, a luxury wedding styling company in India. ”The idea is to look like you really understood the culture and you put in the effort to participate in the celebration as a guest, which means that one has to work months in advance to curate and hand-pick Indian clothes to attend the wedding. The clothing goes back to ancient history, so it will take you time to research and fully understand its form and functionality. You will have to spend some time understanding what a sari means, how to walk in one, and how to drape it.”
The formality, legacy, and elaborate detailing of traditional Indian garments adds an exciting element to the pre-wedding prep for any attendee. “For me, dressing as a guest for an Indian wedding goes beyond making a bold fashion statement,” explains Jessel Taank, founder of the retail platform OUSHQ. “Indian weddings are deeply rooted in cultural symbolism, with every element—from the rituals to the attire—serving as a powerful expression of our heritage and values.” Wearing appropriate attire not only serves as a sign of respect, but adds to the overall aesthetic of a celebration. “What truly captivates me is when a guest’s fashion statement becomes an extension of the wedding’s narrative, seamlessly resonating with the atmosphere and reflecting the couple’s vision,” shares wedding photographer Mili Ghosh. “I’m drawn to capture not just the garments but the stories they tell—the way they breathe life into a celebration, honoring the past while embracing the present.”
Whether you’re traveling to India for a wedding or simply attending a local celebration of a friend of Indian descent, don’t fret about dressing the part. Read ahead to learn from the experts how to respectfully (and fashionably) choose your outfit for wedding events.
Keep It Traditional
If you have a dress code dictating traditional Indian wedding attire, it is essential that you follow suit. “At an Indian wedding, the attire for guests should be clothing that is traditional and honors the history and cultural significance of clothes,” says Kundnani. “It is extremely important for guests and family to be dressed authentically and play up to the occasion.” The traditional wedding guest ensembles for women consist of a sari, a lehenga choli, or an Anarkali suit with intricate embroidery or embellishments. Men usually wear a sherwani or a formal suit paired with traditional Indian accessories like a kurta, a churidar, or pants. Kundnani does note that the exact formal attire guidelines can differ by region, so it’s best to clarify any specifics.
When choosing between a sari or lehenga, the decision comes down to what feels right for you. “Both are culturally significant and usually beautifully constructed, but there have definitely been plenty of times where my sari has fallen apart,” notes Taank. “Lehengas are usually easier to wear and allow freedom of movement. They also have a modern elegance about them and come in a variety of silhouettes! On the flip side, a sari is just so timeless and is created using the most gorgeous of fabrics such as silk georgette or chiffon. If draped correctly, a sari can be extremely flattering.”
