Choosing the right ensemble for your big day. (As a Wedding Guest)
When you’re attending a wedding, especially an Indian or South Asian celebration, the question of what to wear is more than just a matter of fashion — it’s about tradition, style, and fitting into the cultural vibe of the occasion. While the bride and groom steal the spotlight, wedding guests are also expected to dress elegantly and appropriately. Among the most popular choices for male guests are the Sherwani and the Bandhgala — both sophisticated, timeless, and rooted in Indian heritage.
But which one is right for you as a wedding guest? Whether you’re a close family member or attending a destination wedding with friends, here’s a comprehensive guide to choosing between a Sherwani and a Bandhgala for the big day.
Understanding the Sherwani: Grace and Grandeur
A Brief History
The Sherwani is a long coat-like garment that evolved during the Mughal era and later became a symbol of prestige among Indian aristocracy. It was traditionally worn by royalty and remains one of the most regal options in Indian menswear. Though most associated with grooms, sherwanis have become a stylish option for wedding guests who want to make a statement.
Design and Features:
Length: Falls below the knees, creating an elongated, elegant silhouette.
Fabrics: Rich textiles like silk, brocade, velvet, and jamawar.
Embellishments: Zari, embroidery, sequins, and metallic threads.
Bottoms: Usually paired with churidars, slim-fit trousers, or dhotis.
Accessories: Optional for guests — stoles, mojaris, turbans depending on the occasion.
When to Wear a Sherwani as a Guest Close Relation to the Couple: If you’re a brother, cousin, or close friend of the groom/bride, a Sherwani is a suitable option for major functions.
Main Ceremonies: Perfect for traditional rituals like pheras, nikah, or saptapadi.
Evening Celebrations: Sherwanis in darker shades with metallic accents are ideal for night events.
Pros of Wearing a Sherwani Stands out in photographs and complements the grandeur of the event.
Offers a royal, classic appeal. Ideal for indoor or winter weddings due to heavier fabrics.
Cons
Can be too formal or overpowering if you’re not a core family member.
Not very breathable for summer weddings.
Requires effort to style and carry gracefully.
Exploring the Bandhgala: Understated Elegance
A Brief History
The Bandhgala, also known as the Jodhpuri suit, blends Western tailoring with Indian elegance. Emerging during colonial India, it became the go-to outfit for the elite. Today, it is synonymous with modern Indian menswear that respects tradition while embracing sharp, contemporary style.
Design and Features:
Length: Waist-length or hip-length jacket (shorter than a Sherwani).
Fabrics: Blended suiting fabrics like wool, linen, velvet, or raw silk.
Look: Minimal embroidery, closed collar (bandhgala), structured fit.
Bottoms: Styled with formal trousers or slim pants.
Accessories: Pocket squares, brooches, and leather shoes complete the ensemble.
When to Wear a Bandhgala as a Guest
Receptions and Sangeet Nights: It exudes class and fits well in cocktail environments.
Destination or Day Weddings: Great for warm climates and travel-friendly.
Formal-Modern Celebrations: Ideal for city weddings, civil ceremonies, or upscale venues.
Pros of Wearing a Bandhgala
Easy to carry and comfortable over long hours.
Blends well with both traditional and modern dress codes.
Can be reused for business events or formal gatherings post-wedding.
Cons
May feel too understated for ultra-traditional ceremonies.
Limited visual drama compared to a Sherwani.
Requires a good fit – tailoring is everything.
Sherwani vs. Bandhgala: The Ultimate Guestwear Showdown
How to Choose the Right One (For Guests)
- Understand Your Role:
Are you attending as a distant guest, a best friend, or a family member? The closer your relationship to the couple, the more formal your attire should be. A Sherwani makes sense for brothers or uncles, while a Bandhgala is more suitable for colleagues, friends, or distant relatives.
- Match the Function
Traditional Ceremony: Choose a Sherwani in rich tones with minimal accessories.
Reception or Cocktail Party: Go for a Bandhgala with clean lines and polished shoes.
Haldi/Mehendi: Lighter versions of both outfits work – cotton bandhgalas or unembellished sherwanis are great.
- Weather & Venue
For summer weddings or outdoor venues, a linen or silk Bandhgala keeps you cool. Winter weddings are a great opportunity to wear velvet or jamawar Sherwanis with layers and textures.
- Coordinate with Your Partner
If attending with a partner, coordinate your outfit subtly. A sherwani with embroidery that picks up her lehenga’s tones or a Bandhgala that complements her saree can elevate your couple look without being matchy-matchy.
- Choose the Right Fit
No matter which you pick, ensure it’s well-fitted. Sherwanis should skim your frame without looking bulky, and Bandhgalas should hug your shoulders and waist comfortably.
Style Tips for Wedding Guests
Avoid Outshining the Groom: Stay stylish, but don’t go for extremely ornate pieces unless requested.
Color Counts: Deep jewel tones, earthy shades, or pastels based on the time of day help you stand out while staying appropriate.
Footwear Matters: Mojaris or Kolhapuris with Sherwanis, formal leather shoes or jodhpur boots with Bandhgalas.
Accessorize Smartly: Keep accessories minimal unless you’re in a central role. A tasteful brooch or a textured pocket square can be all you need.
Modern Takes and Fusion Trends
Today’s designers are reinventing both Sherwanis and Bandhgalas with fusion elements:
Short Sherwanis that resemble jackets but retain embroidery.
Bandhgala suits with asymmetrical cuts, layered drapes, or Indo-western trousers.
Mix-and-match styling: Pairing a Bandhgala jacket with dhoti pants or a Sherwani with sneakers (for Gen Z weddings).
Brands like Kunal Rawal, Raghavendra Rathore, and Rohit Bal have shown how wedding guests can push boundaries while respecting tradition.
Conclusion: Choose Based on Personality & Purpose Whether you choose a Sherwani for its ceremonial gravitas or a Bandhgala for its understated elegance, make sure your outfit reflects your role, the occasion, and your personal style. You don’t have to overdo it to look sharp. Elegance lies in simplicity, confidence, and attention to detail.
The next time you RSVP to a wedding invite, consider your options — and choose a look that celebrates not only the couple’s love but also your own style journey.