Indian weddings are known for their vibrant color schemes, rich culture, and grandeur celebrations. However, if you are a non-Indian man, you may find it challenging to decide what to wear to an Indian wedding. Indian wedding attire can be confusing to many, and getting the right outfit requires a bit of effort. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with some simple tips on what to wear to an Indian wedding as a non-Indian man.
Understanding the Dress Code
The first step in figuring out what to wear to an Indian wedding is understanding the dress code. At an Indian wedding, you’ll find people dressed in traditional Indian outfits. However, this doesn’t mean you have to go all out and wear a traditional Indian outfit if you’re not comfortable doing so.
Most Indian weddings have a dress code, and the invitation card will provide information on what type of dress is required. For example, if the dress code says “Formal,” you can opt for a suit or a tuxedo. However, if the dress code is “Semi-Formal,” a blazer and dress pants make for a great combination.
Avoid Black and White
Black and white are colors that should be avoided at all costs when attending an Indian wedding. In Indian culture, these colors are often associated with funerals and mourning, and wearing them is considered inappropriate and disrespectful. Stick to vibrant and bright colors instead. Indian weddings are known for their bright colors and lively atmosphere, so don’t be afraid to add some color to your outfit.
Opt for Bold and Vibrant Colors
When it comes to Indian weddings, the brighter and bolder your outfit is, the better. Vibrant colors like red, green, pink, or gold are excellent options for Indian weddings. You can go for a traditional Indian outfit like a sherwani or a kurta or opt for a western-style suit in bright colors.
If you’re not comfortable wearing bright colors, you can add some vibrant elements to your outfit, such as a bright pocket square or tie.
Dress for Comfort
Indian weddings are long, and you’ll be on your feet for most of the day. Therefore, when deciding what to wear, it’s essential to prioritize comfort. Make sure you choose breathable fabrics like cotton or linen, as Indian weddings can get hot and humid.
If you plan to dance or move around, make sure your outfit is not too tight or restrictive. Choose comfortable shoes, as you’ll be on your feet for most of the day.
Accessorize Wisely
Accessories play a crucial role in any outfit, and Indian weddings are no exception. You can add a touch of Indian flair to your outfit by wearing traditional Indian jewelry like a bracelet or necklace. However, go easy on the accessories and use them to complement your outfit rather than overpowering it.
If you decide to wear a traditional Indian outfit, make sure you pair it with the right footwear. Indian footwear like jutti or mojari will add an authentic touch to your outfit.
In Conclusion
When it comes to attending an Indian wedding as a non-Indian man, the key is to strike a balance between comfort and style. While Indian weddings have a dress code, it doesn’t mean you have to wear a traditional Indian outfit if you’re not comfortable doing so. You can opt for a western-style suit in bright colors or add some vibrant elements to your outfit. Remember to choose breathable fabrics and comfortable shoes and avoid black and white. With these simple tips, you can rock your outfit and enjoy the vibrant celebrations of an Indian wedding.
FAQ
Can I wear a regular suit to an Indian wedding?
If you’re invited to an Indian wedding, dressing appropriately can be essential to show your respect for the occasion and the culture. Indian weddings are known for being vibrant, colourful and extravagant, so you may wonder what to wear to an Indian wedding as a guest. One potential option is wearing a regular suit, but it’s important to keep certain cultural aspects in mind while making your fashion choices.
In general, wearing revealing clothing that shows off too much skin is not appropriate for an Indian wedding. Women should aim for conservative outfits that cover their shoulders and knees, and avoid clingy or revealing dresses. Men, on the other hand, are often expected to wear a classic suit or a long-sleeve dress shirt paired with trousers to an Indian wedding.
If you decide to wear a suit, it’s a good idea to add some Indian elements to your outfit to show respect for the culture and the occasion. For example, you could add a colourful pocket square or tie to your suit, or wear a traditional Indian waistcoat called a ‘bandhgala’ over your dress shirt. You could also accessorize your outfit with antique jewellery or classic Indian prints to add a touch of Indian style to your outfit.
In short, wearing a regular suit to an Indian wedding is acceptable, as long as it is paired with modest and culturally appropriate clothing choices. If you’re unsure what to wear, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and opt for a conservative outfit that shows respect for the hosts and their culture. By keeping the dress code appropriate and adding some Indian elements to your outfit, you’ll be able to enjoy the celebration while showing your respect for the occasion.
What should men wear to a wedding as a guest?
Weddings are important events that require guests to dress appropriately. If you are a male guest, you might be wondering what outfit is appropriate for such an event. The dress code for a wedding can vary from formal to casual, depending on the request of the couple. However, as a guest, you should always aim to dress up and avoid looking too casual.
If you are attending a formal wedding, you should consider wearing a tuxedo. A tuxedo is a classic, timeless, and sophisticated style that is perfect for a formal wedding. A black or dark gray tuxedo is always a safe option because they are versatile and can be worn with different colors of ties and pocket squares. You should pair your tuxedo with a crisp white dress shirt, bow tie, and black dress shoes. It’s also important to ensure your tuxedo fits appropriately, both in terms of size and style.
Alternatively, if you don’t have a tuxedo, a classic suit and tie combination can be just as formal. A dark-colored suit such as navy blue, charcoal gray, or black is a great option. You can pair it up with a white dress shirt and solid or patterned tie that complements your suit. Make sure that your suit fits properly- it should be well-tailored to your body without being too tight or too loose. Don’t forget to complete your outfit with a pair of polished dress shoes.
Suppose you’re attending a semi-formal or casual wedding; you can opt for a suit that is lighter in color, such as beige or light gray. You can pair it with a dress shirt and a tie with a fun pattern or color to add some personality to your outfit. If you’re not wearing a tie, you could accessorize with a pocket square or cufflinks. For footwear, dress shoes are still appropriate, but you could opt for a more casual style of shoe or loafer if you prefer.
Choosing the right outfit for a wedding can be a daunting task, especially for men. But, with a little bit of thought and effort, you can’t go wrong with a classic tuxedo or suit. Ensure that your outfit fits well, is appropriate for the level of formality called for, and most importantly, that you feel comfortable and confident in what you’re wearing.
Do men have to wear a suit jacket to a wedding as a guest?
Weddings are special occasions and as such, there are a few etiquette rules to abide by, one of which concerns dressing. It is often considered customary for guests to attend the wedding in formal attire, which may include a suit jacket. However, whether or not men have to wear a suit jacket to a wedding as a guest depends on several factors.
The location and time of the wedding play a significant role in determining the dress code. If the wedding is taking place during the evening or in a fancy location such as a luxury hotel, country club, or rooftop venue, then wearing a suit jacket would be appropriate. Similarly, if a wedding is specified as “black tie” or “formal” on the invitation, then wearing a suit jacket becomes mandatory.
On the other hand, if the wedding is taking place during the day or at an informal venue such as a park, beach or someone’s backyard, then a suit jacket may not be necessary. A lighter option such as a blazer or a sports jacket combined with a collared shirt and dress pants would suffice. Moreover, if the invitation stipulates a casual dress code, then a suit jacket would be entirely optional.
It is important to consider the wedding’s cultural background and theme as well. For instance, a couple may opt for a themed wedding, and guests may be required to dress according to the theme. In such cases, a suit jacket may not be necessary but can be incorporated into the theme-based outfit.
While weddings are considered formal events, the decision to wear a suit jacket as a guest depends on several factors. The protocol around dress codes for wedding guests is shifting, and it’s perhaps more important to keep in mind the level of formality of the event, whether it’s indoors or outdoors, the time of day, and the cultural or thematic undertones of the wedding. As long as you ensure you look presentable and respectful, you can attend the wedding with or without a suit jacket.
