Indian weddings are renowned for their grandeur and extravagance, with events often stretching over several days or weeks. As a guest at such an affair, it’s crucial to dress accordingly while also respecting the theme and dress code. The pressure is high, especially when you’re expected to look beautiful while keeping up with the vibrant colors and patterns that Indian culture has to offer.
With multiple outfits needed for the duration of the wedding, buying new dresses can be a significant financial burden. Instead, consider styling existing pieces in creative ways to minimize expenditure. Summer weddings, in particular, present an opportunity to have fun while dressing appropriately for the heat. By choosing lightweight and flowy fabrics, you’ll stay cool and comfortable while still making a stunning impression.
Indian traditional clothing is particularly well-suited for summer weddings, with its rich colors and intricate designs looking even more resplendent in the sunlight. Not only will you turn heads, but you’ll also have plenty of opportunities to capture Instagram-worthy moments.
How to Dress for an Indian Summer Wedding
In recent times, the notion that traditional Indian attire is the only way to look stylish has been turned on its head. Today’s fashion landscape celebrates individuality and self-expression, allowing individuals to choose outfits that not only flatter their figure but also reflect their personal style.
The trend towards pastel and sorbet hues in non-traditional clothing has further expanded the possibilities, enabling people to experiment with new looks by incorporating these colors into their existing wardrobe. Whether you’re a guest or just looking to upgrade your everyday attire, the key is to find an outfit that exudes fun, glamour, and confidence – as long as it makes you feel good about yourself, you can’t go wrong!
Do’s and Don’ts for an Indian Wedding Guest Outfit
When attending an Indian wedding, especially during the summer season, it’s essential to prioritize comfort above all else. This means opting for loose-fitting outfits made from breathable fabrics like Anarkalis and gowns. Avoid traditional attire that may be stifling in the heat, instead embracing your individuality and wearing what makes you feel confident. Don’t be afraid to add some flair with playful and funky colors – they’re a staple of Indian events, after all!
Just remember to tone down the boldness when it comes to jewelry and makeup, as excessive adornment can make for an uncomfortable experience. When it comes to accessorizing, keep it simple and understated, opting for bindis, tikkas, bangles, and cute rings and necklaces that won’t have you sweating bullets. Since Indian weddings can be marathon affairs, prioritize comfort above all else and choose shoes that can keep up with the pace.
Pastel colors are a great option for summer weddings, as they add a touch of elegance without overwhelming the senses. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate any Indian Summer Wedding event like a pro! We’ve curated a list of go-to outfits that will ensure you stand out from the crowd while staying true to the event’s theme – and we’ve made sure to include plenty of lightweight and flowy fabrics to keep you cool under the summer sun.
↓ 15 – Bold Red Dress
When it comes to Indian weddings, red is a color that’s almost always guaranteed to make an appearance. Whether you’re looking for a modern take or a traditional twist, there are plenty of ways to incorporate this iconic hue into your wedding outfit. One option is to opt for a sleek and sophisticated gown like the one from Ridhi Mehra, which combines clean lines, an off-shoulder neckline, and statement sleeves to create a truly show-stopping look.
Alternatively, you could go all out on glamour with a dress that’s dripping in sequins from House of Musafir. Whatever your style, red is sure to be a stunning choice for your special day.
↓ 14 – Intimate Indian Wedding Outfit
When it comes to dressing for an intimate gathering like a wedding or pre-wedding puja where the dress code is more relaxed, I suggest opting for a printed sari and elevating it with understated accessories. Pearls, floral gajras, and a beautiful clutch are perfect combinations that add a touch of elegance without overpowering the occasion.
Alternatively, you could choose to pair your printed sarees with bold, eye-catching jewelry pieces like those seen on the stunning Juhi, who wears a lovely floral printed sari from PrintsByRadhika. Her look is a great inspiration for those who want to make a statement while still maintaining a sense of understated sophistication.
↓ 13 – Best Colours for Summer Weddings
When it comes to Indian wedding attire, fashion experts suggest embracing bold and vibrant colors to add a pop of excitement to the celebrations. A palette featuring radiant hues like cobalt blue, hot pink, bright yellow, flaming orange, and rich maroon creates a stunning visual spectacle. These colors are sure to make your outfit stand out from the crowd and create unforgettable memories.
On the other hand, Indian culture traditionally associates black and white with inauspicious or even unfortunate events. As such, it’s best to steer clear of these somber tones when attending an Indian wedding. Instead, opt for brighter hues that reflect the joy and festivity of the occasion. For outdoor summer weddings, soft pastel colors are a delightful choice. Lightweight fabrics and floral prints not only add a touch of elegance but also provide a cooling effect on warm days.
A beautiful ice-blue lehenga, for instance, would be perfect for a daytime function. Whether you’re attending an Indian wedding or simply looking to make a statement, remember that fashion is all about expressing yourself and having fun.
↓ 12 – Accessories for Indian Summer Wedding
When opting for a traditional attire at an Indian wedding, don’t be afraid to go big on accessories. In fact, the more elaborate, the better! Long gold necklaces are a great way to add some glamour to your outfit, and you can pair them with head ornaments, long earrings, or even anklets and rings. The key is to balance the brightness of your saree with the accessories – if it’s a vibrant color, tone down the jewelry, but if it’s more subdued, go bold!
For added inspiration, check out some great hairstyle and accessory combinations on this season’s trends.
↓ 11 – A Chic Mehndi Outfit
Think you’re limited to traditional and everyday mehndi outfits? Think again! We’re shaking things up this summer wedding season with a chic new look that’s sure to turn heads. Pair a printed cape or short dress with tulip pants for a stylishly unexpected combo, or opt for bright colored palazzos for a bold statement piece. When it comes to choosing the right fabric, you can’t go wrong with silk or chiffon – both are great options that will give your look a touch of sophistication and glamour.
↓ 10 – Bollywood Inspired Lehenga
At Indian weddings, a lehenga is always a winning choice, regardless of the season. To make yours truly stand out from the rest, consider unconventional patterned designs. Vibrant hues tend to shine particularly well on floor-skimming lehengas. When it comes to tops, feel free to experiment with different styles – peplum, cropped, embellished, or embroidered, depending on your personal fashion sense and comfort level.
Add a pop of personality with bindis and chokers, and don’t forget to strike a pose for those Instagram-worthy moments! And when celebrating summer weddings, pair your lehenga with a matching choli or crop top for a stunning combination.
↓ 09 – Classic Indian Sarees
When it comes to special occasions like Indian weddings, classic sarees are always a popular choice. These timeless garments perfectly capture the essence of Indian culture and fashion. When selecting a saree for daytime events, such as the wedding itself or reception, pastel colors with a subtle hint of duskiness tend to shine. On the other hand, richer, darker hues take center stage during nighttime celebrations.
For summer weddings, opt for lightweight fabrics and soft shades that exude warmth and elegance. To help you navigate this iconic piece of clothing, we’re sharing some valuable Saree Wearing Tips and Ideas that will elevate your wedding attire to new heights.
↓ 08 – Gorgeous Anarkali Dresses
Anarkali dresses have gained immense popularity in Indian traditional attire, captivating the hearts of many women. These stunning garments not only make you look radiant but also accentuate your body shape beautifully. The versatility of Anarkali dresses makes them an excellent choice for various events – from sangeets to mehndi and even weddings. For instance, silk Anarkalis pair perfectly with summer weddings due to their lightweight fabric.
To elevate the look further, you can pair it with a net dupatta and oversized Jhumkas. Moreover, those seeking modern twists on traditional attire will love this fresh take on the classic Anarkali dress, as seen on Indian influencer Kritika, who rocks it effortlessly in collaboration with Ridhiee Suuri.
↓ 07 – Traditional Sharara Suits
Shararas, the quintessential Indian attire, has gained immense popularity, particularly at wedding events. This elegant garment exudes femininity and glamour, making it a showstopper at any celebration. Its comfort and versatility make it an ideal choice for a summer wedding. Pair Shararas with cropped Kurtis, long-sleeved shirts, peplum blouses or short dresses to create a stunning ensemble. A big Dupatta and statement jewelry add the perfect touch of opulence.
Don’t forget to accessorize with oversized earrings and bangles to make your overall look truly unforgettable. The Green Sharara Set available for $100 is a great place to start exploring this Indian fashion staple.
↓ 06 – Jacket Style Anarkali
Indian weddings wouldn’t be complete without the vibrant hues and twirling silhouettes of bridesmaids in their stunning Anarkali dresses, right? The best part is that these dresses come in an array of styles and designs, ensuring you don’t have to worry about your wedding guest outfit being repetitive or boring. By fusing Western, Eastern, and traditional fashion trends, you can create a truly unique look.
One such top-trending idea for the perfect wedding guest outfit is the jacket-style Anarkali dress. This stylish and versatile design allows you to make a statement while still being comfortable and practical.
↓ 05 – Fancy Salwar Suits
Salwar suits are not only a staple in Indian fashion but also a popular choice among Westerners due to their comfort and ease of wear. The stylish garments are often worn with pride at cultural events such as sangeet and mehndi ceremonies, where they can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. One of the unique features of salwar suits is the ability to add embellishments, such as embroidery, sequins, or other decorations, which can greatly enhance their visual appeal.
For those looking for a more modern twist, Tulip Shalwar Outfits offer a trendy alternative to traditional shalwars.
↓ 04 – Lehengas with Long Shirts
For summer weddings, consider pairing light and airy lehengas with long shirts for a perfect blend of elegance and comfort. The bell-shaped sleeves and flowy dupatta will create a feminine silhouette that’s sure to turn heads. Pastel hues are particularly well-suited to these events, giving you a fresh and radiant appearance that’s sure to shine. And why stop there?
With simple outfits like these, the possibilities for accessorizing are endless – go ahead and get creative with flower crowns, earrings, and dainty rings that will add an extra layer of whimsy and charm.
↓ 03 – Pishwas with Fancy Dupattas
In the warmth of summer, long silk dresses, or Pishwas, truly come into their own. These stunning and traditional garments are perfect for Indian wedding events, where they can be paired with Khusas, a classic shoe option. With their flowy design, you’ll be free to spin around and turn heads in style. Moreover, lightly embroidered Pishwas offer the perfect balance of elegance and versatility, allowing you to add your personal touch with accessories.
↓ 02 – Floral Sarees
Non-traditional saree prints have taken the fashion world by storm, particularly among those who crave a fusion of eastern and western styles. The unconventional patterns on traditional clothing have won over many hearts, making them a staple in modern-day saree enthusiasts’ wardrobes. Floral prints, for instance, are a timeless favorite among women, suitable for wear during any season.
The lightweight and airy nature of these sarees makes them an ideal choice for various occasions, including sangeet and mehndi events. To elevate the simplicity of these beautiful pieces, pair them with understated accessories like silver earrings and necklaces, allowing the saree to remain the focal point.
↓ 01 – The Ultimate Kurta and Pajama
The traditional Kurti and pajama ensemble has a rich history that dates back centuries. This stunning outfit is particularly suitable for events like sangeet and Mehendi ceremonies, where its beauty can truly be appreciated. One of the most appealing aspects of a Kurti is the versatility it offers when it comes to design elements such as the neck and sleeves.
From classic boatneck styles to more unique V-necks and even round channels with intricate tassels at the back, the possibilities are endless. In the summer months, Kurtis also prove to be incredibly comfortable and breathable, making them a great choice for warm weather. When it comes to colours, you can choose from a vast array of options, ensuring that your Kurti perfectly matches your personal style.
For an added touch of elegance, pair your ready-made Kurti with a long dupatta and churidar pajama, and complete the look with colorful bangles and statement earrings. To elevate your traditional look even further, consider incorporating one or more of the latest Shalwar Kameez neck styles.
FAQs
Q. What should a Westerner wear to an Indian wedding?
For Westerners attending an Indian wedding, the prospect of dressing similarly may be daunting due to unfamiliar clothing options. Fear not! One solution is to opt for pre-made Indian sarees, which are surprisingly easy to wear. Alternatively, consider a simple Salwar suit or fusion outfit like palazzo pants paired with short dresses.
Q. Is wearing a saree to the main wedding event mandatory?
While it’s common to associate traditional Indian attire with weddings, it’s entirely possible to stray from the beaten path. For instance, instead of a saree, consider donning a vibrant lehenga adorned with intricate patterns. To elevate the look, pair it with an embellished or embroidered top that adds a touch of elegance and sophistication.
Q. Can I wear a formal gown for an Indian wedding?
When attending a traditional reception event, a formal dress from your closet can be a perfect choice. Don’t worry about standing out in a sea of elegance – instead, focus on elevating the overall look with thoughtful accessorizing. A delicate clutch or purse is a great starting point, and you can further enhance your ensemble by adding statement earrings, a necklace, bangles, or even an anklet to create a polished, put-together appearance.
Q. What colors should I avoid wearing while going to an Indian wedding?
When selecting an outfit for an Indian wedding, it’s essential to consider the bride’s attire first. Avoid choosing red or pink hues as they are typically worn by the bride herself. Instead, opt for lighter, breezier shades that exude a carefree vibe perfect for summer weddings. This will not only ensure you’re not upstaging the bride but also create a relaxed and effortless atmosphere.
