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Quick answer
At a Nepali wedding, female guests traditionally wear a saree or a kurta suruwal (a kurta with trousers and a shawl or dupatta). For the reception, an Anarkali, lehenga or festive gown is very common. Choose bright, happy colours like pink, green, yellow, orange, maroon or royal blue. Red is the bride's colour, so most guests choose other shades. Avoid all white and all black, which many families link with mourning.
This guide is for guests at Nepali weddings in Nepal and in Nepali communities in the USA, the UK, Australia, Canada and the Gulf.
By the Bahe Kurtiz styling team, Jaipur. Every piece is stitched in our own Jaipur unit.
The events of a Nepali wedding
Customs differ between communities (Bahun-Chhetri, Newar, Gurung, Magar, Tharu and others), but a Hindu Nepali wedding often includes:
| Event | What happens | What to wear | |---|---|---| | Mehendi / haldi (in many modern weddings) | Henna and turmeric for the bride and groom | Bright kurta set or Anarkali | | Janti | The groom's family and friends arrive in a procession, often with panche baja music | Festive saree or kurta suruwal | | Wedding ceremony (biha) | Rituals such as kanyadan and sindoor, led by a priest | Saree or kurta suruwal | | Bidaai | The bride leaves for the groom's home | Same as the ceremony | | Reception | Dinner and dancing, often the next day | Anarkali, lehenga, gown or glamorous saree |
What to wear to the ceremony
The ceremony is the most traditional part. A silk or georgette saree is the classic choice. If you do not wear sarees, a kurta suruwal or kurta set with a dupatta is perfect and easy to sit in during long rituals. Choose something modest with sleeves.
What to wear to the reception
The reception is more glamorous and modern. An Anarkali suit or gown, a lehenga, or a designer saree all work. Embroidery, sequins and shimmer are welcome in the evening.
Colours to wear and avoid
Lucky and popular colours: pink, magenta, green, yellow, orange, maroon, royal blue, teal.
Avoid:
- Bridal red at the ceremony, as the bride usually wears red
- All white, which is linked with mourning in Nepali Hindu culture
- All black, which many older relatives consider unlucky at weddings
Jewellery and accessories
Married Nepali women often wear the pote (a green or red glass bead necklace) and tilhari, but guests do not need these. Simple gold or kundan earrings, bangles and a tika or bindi will look lovely with any outfit.
Winter weddings abroad
Nepali weddings in the USA, UK and Australia often happen in cooler months. Wear a warm shawl or a long coat over your saree or Anarkali between venues, and choose velvet for evening events.
Frequently asked questions
Can a non-Nepali guest wear a saree to a Nepali wedding? Yes. Most families love it when guests wear traditional clothes. If draping a saree is difficult, a kurta suruwal or Anarkali with a dupatta is just as respectful.
Can I wear red to a Nepali wedding as a guest? It is best to avoid bright bridal red at the ceremony. A deep maroon or a red-and-gold mix is usually fine at the reception.
What is kurta suruwal? Kurta suruwal is a traditional Nepali outfit: a long tunic (kurta) worn with loose trousers (suruwal) and usually a shawl or dupatta. It is similar to an Indian kurta set.
Is white OK at a Nepali wedding? Avoid an all-white outfit. White with bright embroidery or colourful prints is usually fine.
Related guides
- What to wear to a Bengali wedding as a guest
- What to wear to an Indian wedding in the USA
- Velvet Anarkali for winter weddings
Our kurta sets and Anarkalis are made in our own Jaipur unit and ship free to the USA, UK, Canada, UAE and Australia with duties prepaid, so there are no customs fees on delivery.
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