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What to Wear to a Kerala (Malayali) Wedding as a Guest

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Quick answer

At a Hindu Kerala (Malayali) wedding, female guests often wear a cream or off-white kasavu saree with a gold border, a set-mundu (mundum neriyathum) or a silk saree in a soft or rich colour.

What happens at a Hindu Kerala wedding?

Hindu Kerala weddings are known for being elegant and quick – the main ceremony can be over in under 30 minutes.

Why is cream and gold allowed at a Kerala wedding?

In most of India, plain white is avoided at weddings. Kerala is different: the kasavu – handwoven cream cotton with a gold zari border – is the region's traditional festive wear, worn at…

What if I don't want to wear cream?

Silk sarees and silk-look outfits in soft and rich colours are just as common:

Temple etiquette

Many Hindu Kerala weddings take place in or near a temple, such as Guruvayur. Keep shoulders covered, remove shoes, and avoid jeans or short dresses.

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Off-White Embroidered Cotton Kurta Set for Women with Cutwork Organza Dupatta

$52 · Free custom fit · Duties paid

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Coral Pink Chanderi Kurta Set with Hand-Embroidered Yoke & Cutwork Dupatta

$52 · Free custom fit · Duties paid

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What to wear to a Kerala (Malayali) wedding as a female guest: cream and gold kasavu looks, silk-look kurta sets, temple etiquette and what changes…

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