How to Dress for Indian Weddings

Proper Dress Code

For the religious ceremony, you should wear a traditional sari and attire, but that is not required. If you choose not to wear the traditional Indian attire, remember to avoid baring the shoulders, or wearing low cut tops, skirts or other revealing pieces.

Colors Not To Wear

Bright colors are highly encouraged at Indian weddings and only a few colors should be avoided when choosing your wedding attire. Do not wear white or black as there are the colors worn at Indian funerals and for mourning. Red should also be avoided since this is the color that the bride tends to wear.

Proper Attire at the Temple

Most Indian wedding ceremonies that take place in a temple will require you to cover your head. It's especially important for women to know how to dress to Indian weddings at the temple because it usually requires using a long scarf or pashmina stole to cover their heads. Men can bring along a large white handkerchief, but they are usually provided with a head cover at the temple.

Take Your Shoes Off

Shoes are often not a concern when putting together your Indian wedding attire since they are often taken off. Most religious settings in many Indian ceremonies require you to take your shoes off, but socks or stockings are acceptable.

Comfort Is a Must

Indian ceremonies are often long drawn-out and time-consuming events. You want to make sure your attire is comfortable and not tight. You also want to consider the Indian traditions and culture: anything too revealing or tight can make other guests feel uncomfortable.

Dress to Impress

You want to be comfortable, but you do not want to dress too casually. To fit in, buy a traditional wedding sari, lehengas or an anarkali suit. Wear something festive for the occasion and do not forget about the little details. Place extra attention on making your makeup, hair and accessories dazzle.

Jewelry, Bling and Sparkling Things

Jewelry is a key focus for many of the women that attend an Indian wedding, so do not feel uncomfortable if you are getting stared at for your jewelry. Choose at least one special piece to wear around your neck and matching earrings to emphasize the piece. Bangles are also a common jewelry accessory that you will see most of the women wearing. Jewelry pieces should be your focus when deciding how to dress to Indian weddings.

Traditional Indian Clothes to Wear

Choosing to wear traditional Indian wedding attire can be the best and is a highly recommended choice for what you should wear to an Indian wedding.

• . Sarees are the most traditional Indian attire women can wear. If you choose to wear a sari, find one in silk, crepe, chiffon or georgette that displays intricate and detailed embellishments. Anarkali suits, however, are the most common options for wedding guest to wear. You can easily find something elegant and appropriate for a Indian wedding.

• Male Indian wedding attire. Men often wear a tailored kurta with pyjama at Indian weddings. These can be very stylish and comfortable enough to wear all day for the various Indian ceremonies. A dupatta can be added as additional element over the kurta. For a more sophisticated look, choose a shermani instead of the kurta and pyjama. Men should also wear sandals, chappals or jootis on their feet. Men, who have a role in the actual wedding ceremonies, should know how to dress to Indian weddings to fit in with the rest of the bridal party.