When invited to an Indian wedding, the excitement is palpable, not just for the vibrant celebration but also for the chance to dress up in exquisite traditional attire. Indian weddings, known for their grandeur and color, offer a splendid opportunity to delve into the rich tapestry of Indian fashion. Not to mention, finding the perfect outfit for an Indian wedding is an adventure in itself. Here’s your guide to dressing up for an Indian wedding ceremony, complete with tips on where to shop in Malaysia!
Traditional Attire for Women
Sarees: The Quintessence of Elegance
The saree, a timeless piece of Indian fashion, is a popular choice. It’s a long fabric, usually six to nine yards, draped elegantly around the body. For weddings, silk sarees with intricate embroidery or gold thread work are ideal. Not sure how to tie a saree? Opt for a pre-stitched saree instead.
Lehenga Choli: The Festive Flair
Another favorite is the lehenga choli, comprising a long, elaborately designed skirt (lehenga), a matching or contrasting blouse (choli), and a dupatta (shawl). Opt for vibrant colors and rich fabrics like velvet or silk adorned with detailed handiwork for that luxurious feel.
Traditional Attire for Men
Sherwani: The Royal Choice
Sherwanis are long coats worn over a kurta and are often made from heavier fabrics like brocade. They are paired with churidar pants (traditional legging-style trousers) and sometimes a dupatta (shawl-like scarf). Embellishments and embroidery add to their royal appearance.
Kurta Pyjama: Classic and Comfortable
A more common and comfortable option is the kurta pyjama. It’s a long shirt (kurta), commonly worn with churidar (traditional legging-style trousers), or an ankle-length cotton trousers (pyjama. For a more formal look, choose kurtas with rich fabrics and intricate embroidery or add on a Bandi jacket (as seen in picture shown)
Accessorising Your Outfit
Women can enhance their look with traditional Indian jewelry like jhumkas (earrings), bangles, and necklaces. Bindis and ornate hair accessories also add to the charm. When it comes to accessorising a traditional Indian wear, more is more.
Men can accessorize with a stole (shawl), mojari (traditional shoes), and sometimes a turban, depending on the region the wedding is themed around.
Where to Shop in Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur: The Shopping Hub
Visit the vibrant streets of Little India in Brickfields or the famous shopping district of Bukit Bintang. Stores like Pothys and Chennai Silk Palace in Brickfields offer a wide range of traditional Indian attire.
Online Options for Convenience
E-commerce platforms like Zalora and Lazada often have a collection of Indian ethnic wear. Check out specialised online stores like Frontier Raas, g3fashion, Ekaya Benaras or Samyukta Singhania for a more curated selection.
Bespoke Services for a Personal Touch
For a more personalised outfit, consider bespoke services. Tailors in areas like Jalan Masjid India (KL), Merchant Lane (Negeri Sembilan), Little India District (Klang) can craft an outfit tailored to your preferences.
Dressing for an Indian wedding is about celebrating rich traditions and vibrant colors. Whether you choose a saree or sherwani, the key is to embrace the opulence and joy that Indian attire represents. In Malaysia, a melting pot of cultures, finding your perfect wedding outfit is just a matter of exploring the local markets or the digital world. Remember, at an Indian wedding, it’s all about color, elegance, and cultural richness, so dive in and enjoy the experience!
