Don't steal the bride's thunder!
At most weddings nowadays, people who are remote acquaintances of the bride or groom also seem to deck up!
It’s probably easier said than done to look understated at an Indian wedding. Apart from the bride and groom, their respective families and friends also deck up.
The Indian mindset is: “It’s better to be overdressed than otherwise.” As a result, everyone at Indian weddings looks over the top.
In case of western dresses, it is effortless to fashion a ‘less is more’ look. The recent Pippa Middleton wedding is a classy example. The Duchess of Cambridge’s sister wore a high neck, cap-sleeved ivory gown with supple lace detailing, and looked fabulous in it. Most of the guests were dressed soberly and yet looked classy. Kate Middleton, too, was rather understated.
“One can opt for quirkier designs and elegant anarkalis or saris. But one should wear a lehenga only if you are very close to the bride/groom or are immediate family,” says Meha Bhargava, a wedding stylist.
Even brides, these days, like to keep it light and simple, because they want to have fun at their weddings, rather being dragged down by the weight of lehengas.
Celebrity designer Rocky S. advices, “The modern Indian bride is embracing new ways to keep her look light and functional. She is ready to experiment, while still staying close to her traditions... You can keep your outfit subtle, yet look regal at the same time. Opt for materials that are light in colour and compliment your skin tone.”
Rocky adds that guests can be a little more experimental, can try different colours, silhouettes and designs that are fun and quirky.
Archa Mehta, a celebrity stylist, who worked on Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Ram-Leela, feels that while it’s alright for a guest to dress up for a wedding, the reds and pinks should be left for the bride. “There are many colours that one can choose from. Go with pastel colours. If you are wearing a heavy outfit, make sure that the accessories are minimal. Don’t highlight all your features. If the lip colour you are choosing is dark don’t go for heavy eye make-up or dark blushes. Keep it natural,” she advises.