What to Wear to an Indian Wedding in New Jersey

Indian weddings are nothing short of magical. They’re colorful, festive, and full of traditions that bring families together in the most joyous way. From the gorgeous ceremonies to the dance-filled receptions, every moment feels larger than life.

One of the most exciting parts? The outfits! If you’re wondering what to wear to an Indian wedding, expect bold, intricate, and absolutely stunning attire—think flowing lehengas, dazzling jewelry, and vibrant saris that look straight out of a Bollywood movie.

If you’re heading to an Indian wedding in New Jersey, there’s an extra layer of flair to consider. NJ’s mix of cultures brings a modern twist to traditional styles, so you’ll see everything from classic Indian wear to fusion outfits that blend East and West beautifully. Knowing what to wear to an Indian wedding can help you embrace the celebration while respecting its traditions.

Let’s dive into what to wear, no matter your role in the celebration!

What the Couple Should Wear

Your big day is all about looking and feeling amazing together. If you’re wondering what to wear to an Indian wedding as the couple, these outfit tips will help you both steal the show!

For the Bride

Indian brides are the ultimate showstoppers, and their outfits set the tone for the entire wedding. Choosing the perfect attire to wear to an Indian wedding as a bride means blending tradition with your personal style.

Traditional Options: If you’re deciding what to wear to an Indian wedding as a bride, you have plenty of stunning traditional options. Lehengas (a heavily embroidered skirt and blouse), sarees (a long, elegant drape over a blouse), and even Anarkali suits (a flowy gown-style outfit) are all popular choices. Each outfit reflects cultural richness and personal style, letting brides showcase their heritage beautifully.

Accessorizing: The bride’s jewelry game is strong! Think layered necklaces, bangles, statement earrings, and a maang tikka (the decorative headpiece worn on the forehead). Anklets, nose rings, and bridal shoes (often embroidered or jeweled) complete the look. The key is balance—accessories should enhance, not overpower, the outfit.

Popular Colors and Designs: Choosing the right colors and designs to wear to an Indian wedding as the bride is essential to creating a memorable look. Red and gold have long been iconic choices, symbolizing love and prosperity. For a more modern vibe, pastels like blush pink, mint green, and baby blue are increasingly popular. Fabrics such as silk and velvet, paired with intricate embroidery, sequins, or beadwork, add a luxurious touch that makes every bride shine on her big day.

Hair and Makeup: Bridal hair and makeup are all about harmonizing with the outfit. Classic red lips, bold eyes, and intricate hairstyles with flowers or jewels are common. If the outfit is more modern and muted, the makeup often follows suit with softer tones.

For the Groom

Gone are the days when the groom’s outfit was an afterthought. When planning what to wear to an Indian wedding, today’s grooms are all about bold style and coordination.

Traditional Options: The go-to attire for grooms is a sherwani, a long, fitted coat-like garment paired with straight-cut pants or churidar (fitted trousers). Some grooms opt for a kurta pajama, a slightly more relaxed yet traditional choice. Both styles exude elegance and are perfect for Indian wedding vibes.
Trendy Shades: Ivory, gold, and maroon are timeless favorites, but pastel hues like powder blue, blush pink, and mint green are making waves. Many grooms choose colors that either match or complement the bride’s outfit for a coordinated look.
Accessories: Accessories take the groom’s outfit to the next level. A turban (sometimes adorned with a brooch), a stole (a decorative drape), and mojari shoes (traditional embroidered footwear) are must-haves. For a more royal touch, some grooms even add a statement necklace or a sword (yes, really—it’s symbolic and makes for epic photos!).

What Guests Should Wear to an Indian Wedding

Figuring out what to wear to an Indian wedding can feel a little overwhelming, but don’t worry—it’s all about embracing the fun and vibrant vibe of the event. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you nail your look:

For Women

When planning your outfit to wear to an Indian wedding as a female guest, opt for something festive, colorful, and comfortable enough to enjoy a full day of celebrations.

Go Traditional: Sarees, lehengas, or salwar kameez sets are all great options. They’re elegant, festive, and perfect for the occasion.
Colors Matter: Bright, happy colors like pink, orange, or royal blue are always a hit. For daytime events, florals or pastels work well, while evening parties call for deeper, richer tones. Just steer clear of white or black—those shades aren’t really appropriate for Indian weddings.
Comfy Shoes: Weddings mean a lot of standing, walking, and dancing, so go for shoes that look nice but won’t kill your feet. Think embellished flats, wedges, or low heels.

For Men

For male guests, what to wear to an Indian wedding comes down to mixing tradition with a dash of personality.

Stick to the Classics: A kurta pajama is a solid choice—traditional, stylish, and super comfortable. Adding a Nehru jacket can make it a bit dressier.
Or Go Western: If traditional wear isn’t your thing, a sleek suit works, especially for evening receptions.
Add a Little Extra: Accessories like a pocket square or a simple stole can give your outfit that festive touch without going overboard.

What Parents of the Couple Should Wear

As parents of the couple, you’re front and center at the wedding, so your outfit should reflect the occasion without feeling over the top. If you’re wondering what to wear to an Indian wedding, here are some tips to help you strike the perfect balance between stylish and comfortable:

For Moms

As the mother of the bride or groom, you’re playing a key role in the celebration, and knowing what to wear to an Indian wedding is essential. Your outfit should be elegant, timeless, and something that makes you feel confident.

Keep it Classic: Heavy sarees like Banarasi silk, Kanjeevaram, or even a beautifully embroidered lehenga are solid choices. They’re elegant, timeless, and look stunning in photos.
Add Some Glam: Statement jewelry like a choker, long necklace, or traditional bangles pairs perfectly with the outfit. A sleek bun with a few flowers or a softly styled updo completes the look.
Makeup That Lasts: Subtle makeup is the way to go. Neutral tones with maybe a bold lip or defined eyes will look polished without being too much.

For Dads

While dads might not be in the spotlight like the moms or couple, they’re still an important part of the wedding and should dress the part. If you’re wondering what to wear to an Indian wedding as the father of the bride or groom, here are some tips:

Traditional or Modern: Dads can rock a classic embroidered sherwani or go for a formal suit if that’s more their style. Either way, they’ll look sharp and sophisticated.
Coordinate with Mom: Matching or complementing your spouse’s outfit is always a nice touch—it shows you’re a team and looks great in family photos.
Play with Color: Neutral shades like gold, ivory, or beige are safe bets, but deeper tones like maroon, navy, or forest green add a regal vibe.

What the Bridal Party Should Wear at an Indian Wedding

The bridal party plays a big role in the wedding, and their outfits should complement the couple’s look while keeping the vibe cohesive and stylish. If you’re wondering what to wear to an Indian wedding as part of the bridal party, here’s a guide for both bridesmaids and groomsmen:

For Bridesmaids

As a bridesmaid, figuring out what to wear to an Indian wedding is about striking the perfect balance—looking stunning while ensuring the bride stays the center of attention. Here’s how to get it right:

Coordinated Looks: Matching or coordinated lehengas and sarees are a popular choice to wear to an Indian wedding as part of the bridal party. Choose colors and designs that enhance the bride’s outfit without stealing the spotlight.

Shades That Work: Lighter tones like blush pink, lavender, mint green, or pastel blues are great options for daytime events. For evening functions, you can go for deeper shades like maroon, emerald, or navy that contrast the bride’s attire.
Keep it Simple Yet Elegant: Jewelry should be subtle—think stud earrings, delicate necklaces, or bangles. Makeup can be natural with a touch of glam to suit the festive mood without being overpowering.

For Groomsmen

The groomsmen’s outfits should coordinate with the groom’s style while maintaining a polished, uniform look. If you’re deciding what to wear to an Indian wedding as a groomsman, here are some ideas:

Traditional Wear: Matching sherwanis or kurtas are classic options for groomsmen to wear to an Indian wedding. These outfits create a cohesive and traditional look that perfectly complements the groom’s attire.

Western Options: If the groom opts for a suit, the groomsmen can wear tailored suits in matching or complementary colors.
Add Some Flair: Accessories like matching stoles or turbans bring a festive touch and make the group stand out. These little details also look great in photos!

Tips for Choosing the Right Outfits for Each Part of an Indian Wedding

Indian weddings are packed with events, each with its own vibe and dress code. If you’re trying to figure out what to wear to an Indian wedding for every celebration, here’s a quick guide to help you choose the right outfit for each occasion:

Event	Women’s Attire	Men’s Attire	Key Tips
Engagement Ceremony	Go for something light but classy—like a simple saree with a bit of sparkle, a chic salwar kameez, or an understated lehenga in soft colors like peach or mint.	A well-fitted kurta in neutral shades (like beige or light blue) or a sharp suit if it’s a modern vibe.	Keep it semi-formal and comfortable since this is usually an intimate, family-focused event.
Mehendi (Henna)	Pick bright and playful outfits like a lightweight lehenga or a salwar suit in vibrant colors—think yellow, green, or orange. Avoid anything too tight, especially around the arms.	A colorful kurta pajama works great—maybe add a fun pattern or bold color to match the festive vibe.	This is a fun, casual event. Choose breathable fabrics since you’ll be sitting for henna application and possibly dancing later.
Sangeet	Glam it up! Lehengas with sequin work, Indo-Western gowns, or even a saree with a modern twist are perfect. Rich colors like navy, emerald, or maroon look amazing.	Embroidered kurtas with a Nehru jacket, or a tailored suit with a touch of Indian detailing (like a pocket square).	This is your time to shine, but make sure your outfit lets you move freely for all the dancing.
Wedding Day	Go all out with traditional elegance—heavy sarees, silk lehengas, or anarkalis in rich fabrics like velvet or brocade with intricate embroidery.	A regal sherwani in gold, ivory, or maroon, paired with a stole and turban for that classic Indian groom’s party look.	It’s the main event, so this is where you bring out your most formal, traditional attire.
Reception	Opt for a fusion vibe—sleek gowns, Indo-Western outfits, or a chic saree with a contemporary blouse. Metallic tones or jewel colors work great.	A tuxedo or formal suit in black, navy, or charcoal is a classic choice. You could also try a modern Indo-Western ensemble.	The reception is often more relaxed, so this is your chance to experiment with trendy or Western-inspired styles.

Do’s and Don’ts of Indian Wedding Attire

Indian weddings are all about celebrating in style, but there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure you’re dressed appropriately. Here’s a quick rundown of what to do—and what to avoid—when deciding what to wear to an Indian wedding.

Dos

Respect the Culture: Indian weddings are steeped in tradition, so dressing modestly and respecting cultural norms is a must. Ladies, this means avoiding anything too revealing, and guys, ditch anything too casual.
Pick Breathable Fabrics: Weddings can be long, with multiple events and lots of mingling. Lightweight fabrics like silk or georgette will keep you cool and comfortable while still looking fabulous.
Get Your Outfit Tailored: Whether it’s a lehenga, a saree blouse, or a sherwani, a great fit makes all the difference. Tailored outfits not only look more polished but also feel more comfortable to wear.
Accessorize Smartly: Jewelry, shoes, and other accessories can really elevate your look. Think statement earrings, a bindi, or even a classic watch. Just don’t overdo it—accessories should complement, not overpower, your outfit.

Don’ts

No Casual Clothing: This isn’t the time for jeans or T-shirts. Even for the more relaxed events, Indian weddings still call for traditional or semi-formal attire. Avoiding casual wear is a key part of knowing what to wear to an Indian wedding.
Avoid Certain Colors: Steer clear of white and black, which are often associated with mourning in Indian culture. And as a guest, skip red—it’s typically reserved for the bride.
Don’t Go Overboard: While Indian weddings are all about glitz and glam, you don’t want to outshine the bride or groom. Keep your outfit celebratory but not over-the-top.
Say No to Painful Shoes: You’ll be on your feet a lot—think dancing, greeting people, and possibly standing through ceremonies. Comfortable footwear is a must!

Wrap up

Figuring out what to wear to an Indian wedding in New Jersey is all about balancing style, tradition, and comfort. From vibrant lehengas and elegant sarees to tailored sherwanis and classy suits, your outfit should reflect the joyful energy of the celebration while keeping cultural norms in mind. It’s not just about looking good—it’s about respecting the rich traditions behind the event.

Remember, Indian weddings are long and lively, so opt for breathable fabrics and comfortable footwear to keep you going through the day (and night!). Accessorize thoughtfully and embrace the bold colors and intricate designs that make Indian fashion so unique.

Ready to Capture Your Special Day? Let’s Talk!

Planning an Indian wedding in New Jersey is a vibrant and meaningful way to celebrate your love and heritage. As a wedding photographer with a passion for capturing cultural traditions, Indian weddings are some of my favorite events to document. If you’re dreaming of a wedding filled with rich colors, heartfelt moments, and unforgettable details, send me a note, and let’s create something truly special together.

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What to Wear to an Indian Wedding in New Jersey