If you’re wondering what to wear to an Indian wedding as a man whether you’re a groom’s friend, the bride’s cousin, or just there for the food (hey, no judgment!) this guide has you covered.
Let’s admit it when it comes to Indian weddings, men have it way easier than women or do they? While we don’t have to manage dupattas or spend hours on makeup, dressing right for an Indian wedding still takes some planning. And in today’s world of Instagram-ready celebrations and themed functions, showing up in a basic kurta just doesn’t cut it anymore.
Here is your comprehensive style guide to appear dapper, feel at ease, and fully own the desi vibe, from colourful mehendi to glitzy celebrations.
1. Recognizing the Occasion: Indian weddings take place over several days.
Indian marriages take place over several days. The majority of festivities take place over three to five days, and each one has an own personality. You ought to wear attire suitable for the occasion.
Here’s a brief summary:
- Haldi: Vibrant, easy, and uncomplicated
- Mehendi: vibrant and playful
- Glamorous, semi-formal Sangeet
- Shaadi wedding: customary and regal
- Reception: sleek and contemporary
2. Haldi Ceremony: Keep It Cool and Comfortable
Haldi is usually a daytime event where turmeric paste is applied to the bride and groom. There’s a good chance you’ll get splashed with haldi too, so don’t wear your favourite designer kurta.
Style Advice: Wear jeans or pajamas with an off-white or yellow cotton kurta.
For a more laid-back look, roll up your sleeves.
Match with juttis or Kolhapuri chappals.
Wear only a watch or a basic bracelet as an accessory.
3.Go Vibrant and Have Fun with Mehendi
Mehendi events are typically more laid-back and packed with fun, food, and music. This is your chance to experiment with prints, bold colours, and Indo-western styles.
Style Tips:
Try a printed Nehru jacket over a plain kurta.
Go for pastel tones like mint, lavender, or peach perfect for summer weddings.
Wear it with churidar, straight pants, or even trousers.
Mojaris or loafers complete the look.
A pocket square or a brooch might be added for flair.
4.Sangeet Night: Bring Out the Glam
This is the Bollywood-style function with performances, music, and lots of dancing. Your outfit should be dressy but comfortable enough to dance in.
Style Tips:
Choose an Indo-western outfit with a sherwani theme or a bandhgala suit.
Velvet, silk, and jacquard fabrics work well for evening events.
If you want a modern touch, go for kurta with a draped dupatta or asymmetrical hemlines.
Keep shoes formal polished loafers or embroidered juttis.
5.The Wedding (Shaadi): Go Full Traditional
The celebration’s focal point should be reflected in your attire. Whether it’s a temple wedding or a lavish banquet hall affair, you can’t go wrong with classic Indian ethnic wear.
Style Tips:
A sherwani is the gold standard. Select ones that are embroidered or made of silk in jewel tones like maroon, blue, or ivory.
Add a safa (turban) and dupatta for royal vibes.
If sherwani feels too heavy, a kurta-pyjama with an ornate jacket is a lighter but stylish choice.
Don’t forget to wear ethnic footwear juttis or mojaris with detailing work best.
6.Reception: Modern, Sharp & Sophisticated
The reception is where you can trade in traditional for modern. Think suave, tailored, and contemporary.
Style Tips:
A classic suit or a well-fitting tuxedo in black, charcoal, or midnight blue is always fashionable.
Pair with a crisp shirt, sleek tie or bow tie, and leather shoes.
Want to keep it ethnic? Try a bandhgala suit with subtle embroidery.
Pro Styling Tips for Men at Indian Weddings
Tailoring is everything. Even the best outfit will look sloppy if it doesn’t fit right. Invest in good tailoring.
Accessorize smartly. Think brooches, pocket squares, lapel pins, turbans, or watches but don’t overdo it.
Mind the weather. If it’s a summer wedding, avoid heavy fabrics like velvet or brocade. Choose light silks, cotton-silk, or linen blends.
Grooming matters. A fresh haircut, clean-shaven or well-trimmed beard, and neat nails make a world of difference.
Confidence is key. Wear whatever you’re wearing with confidence. Own your look!
Trending Outfit Ideas (Optional if You Want to Add Visuals Later)
Ivory sherwani with golden embroidery for the main wedding
Floral Nehru jacket over a pastel kurta for mehendi
Black bandhgala with golden buttons for sangeet
Linen kurta with a cotton dupatta for haldi
Final Thoughts: Dress with Respect and Style
Indian weddings have a long history and are not only about glamour. So while you’re looking to make a style statement, also honor the culture and rituals by dressing appropriately. Whether you’re the cousin of the bride or just a close friend, your outfit reflects your presence and respect for the moment.
So next time you get that “You’re invited!” card, don’t stress. Use this guide, mix comfort with style, and get ready to turn heads at every Indian wedding you attend!
FAQs: What Men Should Wear to an Indian Wedding
1. What attire is appropriate for a male visitor attending an Indian wedding?
Depending on how formal the event is, it is best for male guests to dress in traditional Indian clothing, such as a sherwani, Nehru jacket, or kurta-pajama. Choose lighter materials and vibrant hues for more laid-back occasions like mehendi or haldi. Aim for more sophisticated and formal attire for the main wedding or reception.
2. Is it acceptable to attend an Indian wedding dressed in Western attire?
Yes, but how traditional the family are and the event will determine this. An elegantly designed suit or tuxedo is perfect for cocktail gatherings or celebrations. However, ethnic attire is more appropriate and acceptable for the major wedding ceremony.
