Guest Attire
What to Wear:
We’re blending the vibrance of a Hindu wedding with a modern, semi-formal Western cocktail reception, think colorful, festive, and semi-formal. Indian attire is encouraged and a great way to appreciate our culture but it is not required; sarees, lehengas, kurtas, dresses, jumpsuits, and suits are all welcome. Wear what feels like you! (For guests who’d like more guidance, here’s a helpful overview: https://www.theknot.com/content/what-to-wear-indian-wedding)
Attire Guide:
Indian attire Women/ girls: Indian Attire (Traditional and colorful) Semi-formal (Wedding): Sarees (pre-pleated are easier), Lehenga choli Salwar kameez, Palazzo, Sherrara, Jewelry: Statement necklace sets, jhumkas/chandbalis (traditional earrings), bangles, and maang tikka (forehead jewelry) Men/ boys Sherwanis, kurta-pajamas, achkans, or kurtas with a Nehru vest/jacket. Western Attire (Semi-formal) Women may wear cocktail dresses, dressy skirts, pantsuits, or jumpsuits. Men may wear blazers or suits.
Notes:
We kindly ask that you do not wear RED or WHITE, these are reserved for the bride. Wear what makes you comfortable and confident—Indian, Western, or a mix of styles all work. Bright, festive color is always in style for an Indian wedding no matter what the season or venue Keep modesty, season, and footwear in mind for a festive, enjoyable day.
Where to Shop for Indian Attire (Online)
Utsav Fashion: www.utsavfashion.com (tried and true dresses and jewelry) Lashkaraa: www.lashkaraa.com (great lehenga, pre-pleated sarees, anarkali) Cbazaar: https://www.cbazaar.com Etsy.com https://www.etsy.com/ (great jewelry) Amazon: www.amazon.com Manyavar: www.manyavar.com Aza Fashions: www.azafashions.com Mirraw: www.mirraw.com Jaypore: www.jaypore.com Kalki Fashion: www.kalkifashion.com Saris and Things: www.sarisandthings.com (allows for rentals) Tailor for Indian dresses: Valenti on Lake in River Forest * Remember if you order online you may need to get your clothes tailored to fit your size!
Where to Shop for Indian Attire (Chicago & Suburbs)
Chicago Devon Avenue (“Little India”) best one-stop place for Indian wedding attire shopping in Chicago Sari Sapne Inc – Sarees, lehengas & festive Indian outfits Manyavar & Mohey - Indian festive wear Studio Elite – Modern festive wear Chicago Suburbs: Anandi Fashions – Sarees, lehengas & festive outfits (Buffalo Grove, IL) Mall of India – Multiple Indian boutiques in one spot (Naperville, IL) Bombay Boutique – Indian clothing & festive wear (Hoffman Estates, IL) Tips Shop early — tailoring often takes 1–3 weeks. Call ahead — some boutiques require appointments. Try on different styles — sizing varies across designers.