What do South Asian Grooms Wear for Their Wedding?
Credit: Medium
When we think of South Asian wedding attire, a lot of us imagine the beautiful colors and intricate embroideries of bridal fashion, but not a lot of attention is brought to the groom’s attire. Just as we encourage brides to feel beautiful and confident on their wedding day, this same energy should be given to the grooms! Their fashion is just as beautiful and diverse as their bridal counterparts. From embroidered sherwanis to royal bandhgala suits, let’s take a dive into the craftsmanship, culture, and accessories of men’s wedding fashions.
Kura Sets
Kura sets are tunics that are mostly worn for pre-wedding events such as the roka or sangeet. They come in different fabric choices, ranging from cotton to linen to silk. No matter what your fabric preference, these sets are made for any occasion, whether casual or formal. Their diverse selection of prints, colors, and embroideries means that they can be easily dressed up or down. They are typically worn with a churidar, or traditional legging-style trousers, or ankle-length cotton trousers.
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Bandi or Nehru Jacket
The Bandi or Nehru Jacket, named after former Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, who popularized this look, is a hip-length tailored coat with a mandarin collar. Like kura sets, and most other types of South Asian groom fashion, Bandis come in many different prints, colors, textures, and embroideries. They can be layered over a contrasting print or a muted hue kurta, making them great options for any wedding event. Similarly, they can be instantly dressed up for a formal occasion or dressed down for a casual one. No matter which event they are worn for, they are very comfortable and easy to accessorize.
Photo Credit: Kora
Bandhgala Suits
Bandhgala suits, also called Jodhpuri, are more formal attire options. They were made in the princely state of Jodhpur in the 19th century and are often known as the “easter tuxedo.” They consist of a structured, closed collar jacket that falls just below the waist, and they are usually worn with slim trousers or breeches. For a slicker look, grooms can choose to keep the top two buttons open. They are a favorite for events like the sangeet, reception, or engagement due to their royal aesthetic. They are also great replacements for the classic three-piece suit.
Photo Credit: Bodylinstore
Sherwani and Achkan
Sherwanis are a button-down, knee-length jacket worn over a kurta, and they are usually paired with flared trousers known as the churidar or salwar. They are most popular with grooms for the wedding ceremony. They come in many different textures, embellishments, and embroideries. Similar to the sherwani, the achkan is a shorter, less flared version that ends at the waist. They are great choices for grooms who prefer a more trimmed, structured look.
Photo Credit: Parivar Ceremony
Mojiris
Mojiris, or juttis, are embroidered footwear that are traditionally made by skilled artisans using traditional techniques. Their pointed toe design and closed back provide a snug fit, making them great additions to any traditional groom outfit. Their design also gives reassurance that grooms will not lose their footwear during dances.
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Groom Accessories
Compared to South Asian brides, who have customary additions such as the solah shingar, which has the bride wear 16 ornaments for their wedding day, grooms do not have as many traditions revolving accessories. However, they also have several options when it comes to decorating their attire. The kilangi or sarpech is a bejeweled ornament that is added to the turban on their wedding day, and it is often made of uncut diamonds and feather accents. Traditional Sikh weddings also have their grooms wear a kirpan, which is a ceremonial sword that acts as a symbol of the groom taking on the role of protector for his wife and family.
Photo Credit: Pinterest
And with that, our journey through the intricate world of South Asian groom fashion comes to an end. Its various styles, textures, and colors offer a wide range of choices for different looks. Whether you opt for a regal sherwani or wear the classic turban, your outfit gives you an outlet to express both your individuality and creativity. Let your confidence shine as you explore different South Asian groom outfits.
If you want to read more about our South Asian bridal hair and makeup services, check out the rest of our website at cinderellabridez.com! Or if you want to learn about Barbie’s experiences as a small business owner and want some tips for your own business ventures, visit her website at barbiepatel.com!