Outfit ideas for wedding: Wear elegant Anarkalis, trending shararas or Indo-western to look stylish

So many weddings to attend and not enough ideas for what to wear? With so many events—mehendi, sangeet, the wedding ceremony, and the reception—each calling for a different vibe, planning your wardrobe can be both exciting and a bit overwhelming.

The good news? Whether you’re a fan of classic styles or modern trends, there are endless options to help you look stunning and appropriate for every event. Whether you choose the timeliness saree or the trendy shararas, choose an outfit that suits the occasion while also reflecting your unique style.

Here are some gorgeous outfit ideas that will have you wedding-ready in no time.

• Timeless elegance of a saree

A saree is the epitome of dressing for an Indian wedding, and for good reason - it is effortlessly elegant and works well for almost any wedding event. Lightweight fabrics such as chiffon or georgette work well for daytime ceremonies as they are comfortable and elegant. For evening events, opt for luxurious silk or Banarasi sarees. Choose bright, vibrant colours like red, pink, mustard, or emerald green. Pair your saree with a statement blouse—be it with intricate embroidery or a trendy backless design—and complete the look with traditional jhumkas or a choker. Don't forget to carry a chic potli bag as a finishing touch.

Also read | Men's wedding fashion: Choose from elegant sherwanis to Indo-western fusion in rich fabrics

• Lehengas: The festive favourite

Lehengas are a quintessential wedding garment, perfect for pre-wedding events like the sangeet or mehendi. An embellished lehenga in rich tones like navy blue, burgundy, or gold is stunning for a grand wedding reception. Softer hues during the daytime, like pastels or floral prints, give a fresh, modern vibe. Styling your lehenga with a crop top or a heavily embroidered choli. Add a dupatta draped elegantly over one shoulder or as a cape to enhance the traditional appeal. Statement jewellery such as a maang tikka or layered necklaces can complete your look for a regal touch.

• Elegant and comfortable Anarkali suits

Anarkali suits are very versatile and elegant, and are perfect for ceremonies or smaller functions. Choose heavily embroidered Anarkalis in silk or velvet for evening events, and lighter chiffon or cotton options for the day. Style your Anarkali suit with high heels and chandelier earrings. Add a bindi, and you're ready. A matching clutch will beautifully tie your outfit together, giving you the polished look of comfort chic.

• Trendy yet traditional sharara and gharara sets

If you’re looking for something trendy with a nod to tradition, sharara and gharara sets are a fantastic choice. These outfits combine modern aesthetics with cultural heritage and are perfect for those who want to stand out. For evening events, richly embroidered or sequined shararas are a showstopper, while vibrant colours like yellow, pink, or green with minimal detailing are great for daytime celebrations. Pair these sets with statement earrings, a bracelet, or a passa to elevate your look. Juttis or block heels are both stylish and comfortable footwear options to complete this ensemble.

Also read | Attending a wedding? Wear regal maroon, soft pastels, shimmering gold or classic red to make a statement

• Indo-western outfits: A fusion of styles

For guests seeking a modern twist, Indo-western outfits bring together the best of both worlds. Think dhoti pants paired with a stylish kurti, asymmetrical tunics, or cape lehengas for a unique look. For evening receptions, you can opt for an embroidered gown or a jumpsuit with ethnic embellishments. Keep accessories minimal yet striking—bold earrings or a statement belt work wonders. Pair with stilettos or wedges for a polished and contemporary finish.

• The simplicity of kurta sets

Kurta sets are a stylish yet understated choice, perfect for those who prefer minimalism without compromising on elegance. Women can go for embellished kurtas paired with palazzos or churidars, while men can opt for silk kurtas paired with dhotis or slim-fit trousers. A dupatta can add flair to the outfit, and accessories like earrings, bangles, or a brooch can further enhance the look. Mojaris or kolhapuris are excellent footwear options to complement this ensemble.

Also read | Business of wedding fashion: Why India’s biggest fashion houses love celebrity weddings

• The finishing touches: Accessories and details

No Indian wedding outfit is complete without the right accessories. Traditional jewellery like chandbalis, kundan necklaces, or jhumkas can elevate any look. When it comes to footwear, embellished juttis, kolhapuris, or elegant heels are great choices depending on your outfit. A clutch or potli bag adds practicality and style, while bold eye makeup and hairstyles like a floral-adorned bun or loose curls with a maang tikka complete the look beautifully.

With these outfit ideas, you’ll be ready to shine at any wedding this season. Whether you opt for a classic saree, a glamorous lehenga, or a trendy Indo-western look, you will be ready to rock any function, be it sangeet, mehendi or reception.