Expect to eat a lot of fabulous Indian and fusion food during all of the wedding events. Food is a HUGE part of Indian weddings, we recommend trying everything you're comfortable with!
This is common at Indian weddings - the reception is viewed as an entirely separate event that requires an outfit change! The wedding is more focused on tradition and formality, while the reception is meant to be more of a party. The afternoon allows for the family and guests to have some rest time before an evening of fun.
Mehndi: Indian Semi-Formal or American Dressy Casual - The idea here is not to dress fully formal (but please don't wear jean shorts). As a reference, think about what you would wear to a nice summer dinner party. If you would like to wear Indian clothes, women often favor styles such as anarkalis, indowestern suits, etc. Men usually wear a button down and pants, but some may wear kurtas. Wedding: Indian or American Formal - Dresses for women, preferably below the knees; for men either a blazer or suit jacket (with or without tie) would be appropriate. If opting for Indian clothes, sarees, lehenghas, Indowestern jumpsuits, etc. Reception: Indowestern Formal & Black Tie Optional - Men: Suits (with or without a tie), Kurtas - Women: Dresses preferably below the knees. If opting for Indian clothes, sarees, lehenghas, Indowestern jumpsuits, etc.