What to Wear: Attire Guide
Friday Indian Wedding
Dress Code: Indian Formal (encouraged)
Friday’s ceremony will be rich in Bengali tradition. We’d love for guests to join in the spirit of it by wearing South Asian attire if you're up for it!
For Women:
Saree – A draped, elegant garment worn with a fitted blouse and underskirt. Can be cotton, silk, or heavily embellished depending on the style. Available pre-stitched for easier wear.
Lehenga – A skirt-and-blouse set (often with a dupatta/scarf), usually more embellished and festive
Salwar Kameez / Anarkali – A flowy or structured long top with pants
Indo-Western Gown – A floor-length dress that blends Indian embroidery or silhouettes with Western-style cuts
For Men:
Kurta – A long tunic-style shirt, often worn over pants (churidar, trousers, or even slacks)
Sherwani – A more formal, structured jacket worn over a kurta
Jodhpuris / Nehru Jackets – These can be paired with a kurta or dress shirt for a more fusion look
Saturday Western Wedding
Dress Code: Cocktail or Semi-Formal
For women: dresses, jumpsuits, dressy separates, or Indian attire such as sarees or lehengas
For men: suits with jacket and tie or formal Indian attire like a kurta with a tailored jacket or a sherwani
A Note on Color
Please avoid solid red or white, as these colors are traditionally worn by the couple. Otherwise—bold colors, pastels, and jewel tones are all welcome!
Where to Shop or Rent
Click a section below to explore outfit and accessory options:
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Sites where you can purchase Indian or fusion outfits and accessories. Click the name of each store below to visit their website.
Note: While most of these retailers offer international shipping, it's advisable for customers to review specific shipping policies, potential customs duties, and delivery timelines before making a purchase.
For Women & Men:
- House of Indya / Nykaa Fashion :
Affordable, modern Indian wear for women (lehenga sets, gowns, kurtas). Men’s options available via Nykaa Fashion, but selection is limited. Ships internationally.
Price point: $-$$ (Budget-friendly to moderate)
Large selection of sarees, lehengas, kurtas, and sherwanis for women, along with an extensive men’s collection including kurtas, sherwanis, and dhoti sets. Ships internationally.
Price point: $–$$$ (Wide range: budget to formalwear)
UK-based site with affordable ready-to-wear for women and men. Great for guests on a budget. Ships internationally.
Price point: $–$$ (Mostly budget-friendly)
Trendy & colorful styles for all budgets. Carries women’s lehenga sets, sarees, gowns, and Indo-Western outfits and men’s kurta sets among many other options. Ships internationally.
Price point: $$-$$$ (Moderate to high)
Ethnic wear with an artisanal focus. Great for day events and understated elegance. Ships within the US.
Price point: $$–$$$ (Moderate to high, with some budget finds)
- Amazon
Search “Indian clothing” or specific terms like “men’s kurta set” or “women’s lehenga.” Selection varies—great for basics, accessories, and budget options. Check individual product listings for shipping availability.
Price point: $–$$ (Affordable to moderate, depending on seller)
-Etsy
Handmade and custom pieces from small designers worldwide. Unique finds, especially for fusion wear, jewelry, and one-of-a-kind styles. Check individual product listings for shipping availability.
Price point: $$–$$$ (Moderate to higher, depending on customization)
Jewelry & Accessories:
UK-based boutique with beautiful pieces.
Price point: $$ (Moderate)
- Rubans
Trendy, budget-friendly jewelry - perfect for guests who want fun, festive pieces without the splurge.
Price point: $–$$ (Budget-friendly to moderate)
Contemporary and Indo-Western styles for a polished look.
Price point: $$–$$$ (Moderate to high)
Handcrafted, bold silver jewelry with a traditional and artisanal edge.
Price point: $$$–$$$$ (High)
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Prefer not to buy? These sites let you rent festive Indian clothing (and sometimes accessories). Perfect for one-time wear.
Local Boutiques
Many Indian clothing boutiques in major U.S. cities offer in-person rentals for both men and women. See below for local store recommendations nearest you, and inquire directly about rental services.
Carries a vibrant selection of lehengas, sarees, gowns, and jewelry for women. Stylish, guest-friendly looks with a wide size range. Ships within the U.S.
Price point: $$–$$$ (Moderate to high)
A U.S.-based rental service specializing in Indian formalwear for both women and men. Outfit options range from classic to trendy, with dry cleaning and easy return shipping included.
Price point: $–$$$ (Many rentals under $100)
- Preserve
Offers a variety of Indian and South Asian clothing for both men and women. Includes sarees, lehengas, gowns, kurta sets, and more. Ships within the US.
Price point: $$–$$$ (Moderate to high)
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Looking to shop in person? These well-reviewed boutiques offer ready-to-wear or custom Indian outfits. Some stores recommend to call ahead to book an appointment, so be sure to check their hours and policies before visiting.
MD / DC / VA
- Heritage India FashionsAlexandria, VA: All-in-one shop for lehengas, sarees, men’s kurtas & accessories.
NYC
- Manyavar & Mohey Jackson Heights, Queens: Men’s kurtas, sherwanis & coordinating women’s wear.
- Vintage India NYC Manhattan: Curated boutique with lehengas, sarees, and accessories.
Philadelphia (coming soon)
North Carolina (coming soon)
South Carolina (coming soon)
Colorado (coming soon)
California
- Sari Palace Berkley, CA: Huge selection, including menswear. Known for wedding guests and family outfits.
- Kandayaan Boutique Fremont, CA: Family-run shop with elegant, high-quality Indian wear for everyone. (Tell Neera we say hi!)
-Fancy Shop San Diego, CA: Offers an exclusive variety of premium ethnic wear.
Need Help?
We’re happy to help answer questions and guide your outfit search! If you’re not sure what to wear or where to find it, feel free to reach out to Malini Sen, the groom’s sister and our fashion guru. She can be reached at: malini.b.sen@gmail.com
