How to Dress Up for an Indian Wedding: A Guide for Western Guests

Menaka Gupta
Aug 26
2 min read

Indian weddings are vibrant, colorful, and steeped in traditions that go back centuries. If you’ve been invited to one, consider yourself lucky—it’s not just an event, it’s an experience! But before you dive into the world of saris and sherwanis, let’s clear one thing up:

Culture Appropriation vs. Culture Appreciation

Wearing Indian attire as a Western guest isn’t cultural appropriation if done respectfully. In fact, it’s seen as a sign of honor and effort. The key lies in:

Appreciation: Choosing traditional attire because you admire and respect the culture.
Avoiding Misuse: Don’t wear sacred symbols (like bindis or sindoor) unless instructed, and avoid anything that trivializes the culture.

If in doubt, ask your hosts—they’ll love to guide you!

3 Safe Outfit Choices for Women

Anarkali Suit: A long, flowy dress paired with leggings and a dupatta (scarf). Elegant and easy to move in. Perfect for all ceremonies.
Lehenga Choli (with Modesty in Mind): A long skirt with a matching blouse and dupatta. If you’re worried about showing too much skin, opt for high-neck blouses and a longer dupatta.
Saree (Pre-stitched Option): The saree is iconic but can be tricky to drape. Go for pre-stitched or ready-to-wear versions. Keep the blouse modest if you’re not used to midriff-baring styles.

3 Safe Outfit Choices for Men

Kurta Pajama: A long tunic paired with slim pants. Lightweight and ideal for most functions.
Nehru Jacket over a Kurta: Adds a stylish, formal touch without being over-the-top.
Sherwani (for the Main Wedding Ceremony): A more regal outfit often reserved for the wedding day. Pair with churidar pants for a sleek look.

Footwear: Comfort is Key

Indian weddings involve standing, dancing, and sometimes sitting cross-legged. Choose comfortable flats or sandals for women and mojris or loafers for men. Important: In many ceremonies, you’ll have to remove your shoes before entering, so avoid complicated straps or shoes that take ages to take off.

Covering the Head During Ceremonies

In some rituals—especially Sikh or traditional Hindu weddings—covering the head is a sign of respect. Women can use their dupatta, while men are often provided with a scarf or turban by the hosts. Always observe what others are doing and follow suit.

Final Tips

Avoid wearing white (symbolizes mourning) or black (considered inauspicious) unless told otherwise.
Bright, festive colors like red, yellow, green, and royal blue are always a safe choice.
If unsure, ask your hosts—they’ll appreciate your effort to respect traditions.

Planning a destination Indian wedding? Our team at Work with Menaka LLC specializes in creating unforgettable bridal experiences—from makeup and hairstyling to full wedding styling.📩 Contact us today to make your big day stress-free and picture-perfect!