Indian weddings are a kaleidoscope of color, culture, and celebration. Whether you’re attending a Mehendi ceremony, a Sangeet night, or the grand wedding itself, knowing what to wear is essential—not just to look your best, but to honor the traditions of the occasion. This guide walks you through everything you need to know, including the perfect sandals for Indian wedding events.
🎉 Understanding the Indian Wedding Experience
Indian weddings are not one-day affairs. They often span several days and include multiple events, each with its own vibe and dress code. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Mehendi Ceremony: A pre-wedding event where the bride and female guests get henna designs. Expect vibrant colors and relaxed, festive attire.
- Sangeet Night: A musical evening filled with dance performances and celebration. Glamorous outfits and comfortable footwear are key.
- Haldi Ceremony: A ritual involving turmeric paste. Yellow is the traditional color, and outfits are usually simple and cheerful.
- Wedding Ceremony: The main event, often held in a temple or banquet hall. Traditional and formal attire is expected.
- Reception: A post-wedding party with food, music, and dancing. Think elegant and semi-formal to formal wear.
Each event offers a chance to showcase different styles, so let’s dive into what to wear.
👗 Women’s Attire: Traditional Meets Trendy
Indian fashion is rich and diverse. Here are the most popular choices for women:
1. Saree
A saree is a long piece of fabric draped around the body, paired with a blouse and petticoat. It’s timeless, elegant, and perfect for formal events like the wedding ceremony or reception.
- Fabric Choices: Silk, chiffon, georgette, and organza.
- Style Tip: Opt for embellished or embroidered sarees for a regal look.
2. Lehenga Choli
A lehenga is a long skirt worn with a cropped blouse (choli) and a dupatta (scarf). It’s ideal for the wedding day or Sangeet.
- Style Variations: A-line, mermaid, or flared lehengas.
- Color Ideas: Jewel tones like emerald, ruby, and sapphire.
3. Anarkali Suit
This long, frock-style dress is paired with leggings and a dupatta. It’s comfortable and stylish—great for Mehendi or Haldi.
4. Sharara/Gharara
These are wide-legged pants paired with a short kurti and dupatta. They’re trendy and perfect for dancing at the Sangeet.
5. Fusion Wear
For those who prefer a modern twist, Indo-Western outfits like dhoti pants with crop tops or gowns with Indian embroidery are great options.
🧔 Men’s Attire: Classic and Contemporary
Men have plenty of stylish options too:
1. Kurta Pajama
A long tunic (kurta) with fitted pants (pajama). Add a Nehru jacket for a semi-formal look.
2. Sherwani
A heavily embroidered coat-like garment worn over a kurta and churidar. Ideal for the wedding ceremony.
3. Bandhgala Suit
A formal Indian suit with a closed-neck jacket. Perfect for receptions.
4. Dhoti Kurta
Traditional and elegant, especially for temple weddings.
5. Western Suits
Acceptable for receptions, especially if paired with Indian accessories like a stole or brooch.
🎨 Colors and Fabrics: What Works Best
Indian weddings are all about color. Here’s how to choose wisely:
- Colors to Embrace: Bright hues like red, orange, pink, green, and gold.
- Colors to Avoid: White (associated with mourning) and black (considered inauspicious).
- Seasonal Picks:
- Summer: Light fabrics like cotton, chiffon, and georgette.
- Winter: Rich fabrics like velvet, silk, and brocade.
👡 Sandals for Indian Wedding: Style Meets Comfort
Footwear is often overlooked, but it’s crucial—especially for events that involve dancing, standing, and walking. Let’s explore the best sandals for Indian wedding occasions.
👠Women’s Footwear
- Embellished Kolhapuris
- Traditional Indian sandals with mirror work or embroidery.
- Great for Mehendi or Haldi.
- Juttis
- Flat, closed-toe shoes with ornate designs.
- Comfortable and stylish for all events.
- Block-Heeled Sandals
- Provide height without sacrificing comfort.
- Ideal for Sangeet and reception.
- Wedges
- Perfect for outdoor events like garden weddings.
- Stable and easy to walk in.
- Metallic Flats
- Gold or silver tones match most outfits.
- Great for dancing and long hours.
- Strappy Sandals
- Choose ones with ethnic embellishments.
- Avoid stilettos unless you’re comfortable in them.
đź’ˇ Pro Tip: Always break in your shoes before the event. Blisters are not festive.
👞 Men’s Footwear
- Mojaris
- Traditional slip-on shoes with embroidery.
- Match well with sherwanis and kurtas.
- Kolhapuris
- Open-toe sandals for casual events.
- Leather Sandals
- Great for daytime functions.
- Closed-Toe Ethnic Shoes
- Ideal for formal ceremonies.
- Loafers or Dress Shoes
- Acceptable for receptions, especially with Western suits.
đź’Ť Accessories: The Finishing Touch
Accessories elevate your outfit from good to unforgettable.
For Women:
- Jewelry: Statement earrings, bangles, maang tikka (forehead jewelry), and necklaces.
- Hair Accessories: Floral garlands, jeweled pins, or headbands.
- Clutch or Potli Bag: Small, decorative bags to carry essentials.
- Dupatta Styling: Drape it over one shoulder or both for elegance.
For Men:
- Brooches or Lapel Pins: Add flair to jackets.
- Pocket Squares: Match with your outfit.
- Stoles or Shawls: Especially with sherwanis.
- Watches and Rings: Keep it classy.
🧴 Grooming and Makeup Tips
Looking polished is part of the package.
Women:
- Makeup: Go for glowing skin, bold eyes, and long-lasting lipstick.
- Hair: Braids, buns, or waves with accessories.
- Nails: Match your nail color to your outfit or go neutral.
Men:
- Hair: Well-groomed and styled.
- Beard: Trimmed or clean-shaven.
- Skincare: Moisturize and use a light fragrance.
🧳 Packing Tips for Destination Weddings
If you’re traveling for the wedding, here’s what to pack:
- Multiple outfits for each event.
- Matching sandals for Indian wedding functions.
- Jewelry and accessories.
- Emergency kit: safety pins, band-aids, stain remover.
- Comfortable nightwear and casual clothes.
🛑 Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Wearing White or Black: Unless specified.
- Overdressing for Casual Events: Save the heavy lehenga for the wedding day.
- Ignoring Footwear Comfort: You’ll regret it after hours of dancing.
- Not Checking the Invite: Some weddings have themes or dress codes.
🧡 Final Thoughts
Attending an Indian wedding is a joyful experience filled with music, rituals, and vibrant fashion. Whether you’re twirling in a lehenga or stepping confidently in your sandals for Indian wedding festivities, your outfit should reflect the spirit of celebration and respect for tradition.
Dress with intention, accessorize with flair, and most importantly—enjoy every moment of this cultural extravaganza.
