Headed to a destination wedding? If yes, you’re bound to be confused with what and how much to carry. I know, because I’m headed to one next week. I’ve travelled outside Mumbai and India a number of times to attend weddings (perks of a big family!), but packing for them can be quite a task. How do I decide what to carry, given the weight and space limit? The past couple times I attended a wedding out of Mumbai, I made some smart choices when selecting my outfits and what to pack.
My fashion choices for destination weddings are now quite different from weddings I attend in Mumbai. Here is a handy guide based on my experience. Hope it helps you select the right clothes for the destination wedding you’re attending! Happy packing and bon voyage!
Indian outfits for destination weddings
What to pack
Saris (preferably pre-stitched or draped saris): For the wedding, reception or sangeet. (Below: Gaurav Gupta Tribe collection available at Jabong.com)
Anarkalis or kurtas: These are easy substitutes for saris at weddings. If your family norms aren’t too traditional, anarkalis are the perfect option. BTW, they are my top outfit of choice for destination weddings! (Below: BIBA by Rohit Bal, Look from Shyamal & Bhumika)
Kurtis and tunics: You need these for smaller occasions (like poojas or family gatherings). These can be worn without dupattas and with trousers. (Below: Tunic by Rena Love)
Selecting your outfits
Look for easy-to-wear, light fabrics that are weather-appropriate and won’t wrinkle easily in your suitcase.
Sequins and stones tend to fall off, especially when crammed in a suitcase (I know, it’s happened to me!). Embellishments like appliqué, gota patti and thread work are great alternatives.
You will need to carry Indian outfits for each occasion at the wedding, but you can save space by carrying clothes that can work with more than one outfit, such as dupattas and churidars.
Choose outfits with minimal embellishments and fuss. They shouldn’t add too much weight to your luggage and be easy to drape.
Avoid packing lehengas since they are usually cumbersome to carry and occupy too much space!
Casual wear for destination weddings
What to pack
Dresses and tops: Maxi dresses are great for travel and can be worn for a family lunch or out shopping. Look at wrinkle-free tops and tees that you can pair with shorts or pants. It’s good to carry some fuss-free tops and dresses that don’t require special lingerie or camisoles. (Below: Maxi dress by Label by Ritu Kumar, dress by Being Human)
Shorts and pants: Carry at least two trousers of which one could be cropped. Make sure they match your tops! (Below: Top from Forever New)
Selecting your outfits
Places with warm climes are usually the preferred destinations for Indian weddings. Keep the location in mind when packing your casual wear- it’s also a mini-holiday though you still need to look stylish.
Depending on the duration of your entire trip (and not just the wedding), you will need to carry multi-tasking clothes that you can mix and match, such as shorts and trousers in neutrals like black and beige.
If you’re carrying something that is a bit tough to match, either leave it behind at home or make sure you have at least two options to wear it with, which can also be worn with other garments. For example, carry at least two matching tops with your printed pants (they are usually tough to pair).
Avoid jeans. They are not meant for warm weather and add too much bulk to your luggage. Opt for cotton trousers or jeggings instead.
Beach wear for destination weddings
What to pack
Swim wear: One piece or bikini, it’s your choice! Of course, do keep in mind the culture of the place you are visiting. (Below: Swimsuit available at TheBeachCompany.in)
Beach cover-up or sarong: Can be worn over your swim suit or as a dress. Make sure you carry one if there is going to be a poolside party or beach gig. (Below: Bikini and cover-up available at TheBeachCompany.in)
Selecting your clothes
There is almost certain to be a swimming pool or fun water sports at the location of the destination wedding. There might even be a pool party!
You ideally would need just one set of swim wear, but if you’re keen, you can carry two sets.
Don’t carry your “sporty” swimwear that you wear for your daily pool workout. It’s too boring for a holiday.
Have fun with fun prints, bold colours and sexy cuts- you’re on holiday!
Coming up next: Accessories to pack for destination weddings