I wanted to do a post that I get so many questions on – How do you dress for an Indian wedding reception? Where do you buy your outfits from? Let's get started..
What to Wear to an Indian Wedding Reception?
I categorize outfits in a few different ways depending on the dress code. Luckily, now-a-days people indicate on the wedding invitation or on their wedding website what the attire is. I personally like to put outfits into four categories which you will definitely see at Indian wedding receptions:
Sari
Anarkali (Gown)
Punjabi Salwar Kameez (Long tunic and trousers)
Lehenga Choli (Skirt and blouse)
You honestly cannot go wrong with any of them! I personally LOVE gowns. In my mind, they are super elegant yet comfortable. The gown I wore for my friends reception a few weeks ago at the Hyatt Regency in New Brunswick, New Jersey is honestly one of my favorite outfits I own. I love the blush color and the sheer lining in the middle makes the gown look like it is two pieces when it is actually one piece. The off the shoulder adds an extra touch and makes the gown modern yet so elegant. I honestly felt like a princess!
Where to Buy an Indian Outfit?
If you are in the tri-state area then I would recommend Edison, New Jersey and Jackson Heights in Queens, New York. Those two places are the largest Indian shopping centers in the tri-state area. If you cannot get to one of those shopping centers I highly recommend the online store Utsav Fashions. I have bought a number of outfits from Utsav and they never disappoint! Just make sure to look at the sizing information before purchasing. The delivery is also pretty fast (ships via DHL) and they include tracking information (I would also check to see when the item ships especially if you need the item quickly).
As far as how I store my outfits, I put them on hangers or leave them folded up in boxes. I always make sure to have them in some sort of packaging (I usually use the packaging it came in) since the details on the outfit can be intricate along with the fabric.
As far as accessories go, you can buy them at the Indian shopping centers mentioned above or online as well through Utsav. I have also seen a lot of stores carrying statement jewelry (such as Charming Charlie) so don’t be afraid to mix and match!
Planning What to Wear
Usually in the beginning of wedding season (early spring) I’ll make a list of all the weddings that we are being invited to (along with the events) and plan out my outfits. I do this so that I can make sure I have enough time to order outfits if I need to or figure which outfits I want to re-wear from the year before.
Last of all, HAVE FUN! You are there to celebrate with your family, friends, etc. The details and the amount of planning and effort that goes into these weddings are mind-blowing and are nothing short of something out of a Bollywood movie so enjoy yourself!