dress code by event

welcome party

Semi-formal. Colorful Indo-western / bright garden party vibes. Prints and patterns encouraged!

women

Saree, Lehenga, Sharara Suit OR Jumpsuit, Cocktail/Maxi Dress

men

Kurta OR Button-up and Slacks

inspiration

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baraat / ceremony

Indian traditional (preferred) or daytime Western formal. The bride will be wearing red for this event.

women

Saree, Lehenga, Sharara Suit, OR Cocktail/Maxi Dress

men

Kurta / Vest, Jodhpuri, Sherwani OR Blazer/Sports Jacket & Slacks

inspiration

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cocktail hour / reception

Indian traditional or Western formal. The bride will also be wearing red for this event.

women

Gowns OR Sarees, Lehengas

men

Suits OR Jodhpuri, Sherwani

inspiration

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wedding attire faqs

What should I wear Indian attire to?

Wearing Indian attire is not required but it is certainly welcomed and encouraged! If you are looking to prioritize which events to wear Indian attire to, we recommend the Welcome Party and the Ceremony. For women, even if you are wearing Western attire, you can accessorize with large jewelry and bangles, as is Indian custom.

Where can I get Indian attire?

Feel free to buy or rent Indian attire! Here are some helpful links:

Is the dress code different between the ceremony and reception?

Typically with many Indian weddings, there is a break between the ceremony and reception so that people can change if they'd like to. The custom amongst a lot of modern Indian families is to wear traditional Indian outfits for the former and Western outfits for the latter. Men tend to make this cultural switch more often than women, though women will often change to a different saree for the evening.

That being said, please do whatever you feel comfortable with! If you have multiple appropriate outfits then feel free to wear them. You can also stay in the same outfit the entire day. The choice is yours - we're just happy you're here to celebrate with us.

What will the weather be like?

Average weather in Princeton, NJ in mid-September is mid to high 70s during the day, low 60s at night.

Which events are indoors or outdoors?

All events are outdoors (Friday's welcome party, Saturday's Baraat, Ceremony, and Cocktail Hour) aside from Saturday's Reception.

Any footwear recommendations?

Given that most events will be held outdoors, we suggest that guests avoid high heels as they will be walking on uneven surfaces and/or grass. We recommend block heels or lower platforms as alternatives.

Is there a color theme for any of the events?

No, there is no specific color theme for any of the events. Indian events are all very colorful, vibrant, and bright.

What color(s) should I avoid?

The bride will be wearing red for most of Saturday, in accordance with Indian and Chinese custom. Matching the bride is not prohibited but if you'd like to avoid red and white, feel free to do so.