Regional wedding outfits
Explore the diversity of regional bridal styles
India, a land of culture and traditions, has unique and beautiful wedding customs in each state. The cultural diversity throughout the country offers a rich tapestry of traditional wedding outfits. While the classic elegance of sarees stands timeless within the brides, there are cultures of gorgeous suits and lehengas in different regions too. Every state has its unique artisanal craftsmanship in its wedding attire, representing the specialties and pride of its heritage. The cultural mosaic of this country is beautifully represented in the distinct fabrics, embroidery techniques, and bridal styles that vary from state to state. And together this vast variety of elegance makes our rich heritage even richer.
Even in the 21st century, the tradition of wearing our own cultural bridal attire is very much alive. A modern bride can now explore all these style options and choose to wear what aligns with her preference as well as represents her culture, rituals, and traditions to make her wedding day special and memorable. Here are 7 popular bridal attires from different regions of India.
Banarasi Silk Saree (Uttar Pradesh and Bengal)
Banarasi silk sarees are synonymous with Indian brides, especially in the states of Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. The classic sarees are renowned for their luxurious texture and intricate zari work. Traditionally red Banarasi sarees are worn by brides and accompanied by gold traditional pieces of jewellery that complement the exquisite gold zari work of the saree.
Kanjeevaram Silk Saree (Tamil Nadu)
Lustrous silk and vibrant colours, Kanjeevaram silk sarees add elegance to a traditional South Indian bride. Particularly in Tamil Nadu, brides are seen wearing Kanjeevaram sarees for their weddings, styling them in Madisar drapes, and accessorising them with heavy gold jewellery and flower ornaments. The bright and vivid colour combinations of these sarees perfectly fit the morning weddings.
Paithani Silk Saree (Maharashtra)
The regal charm of the handwoven silk and intricate peacock motifs in Paithani sarees make a Maharashtrian bride glow on her special day. These sarees showcase a unique weaving style, known as kadwa, which creates rich texture and durability. A traditional Marathi bride styles her Paithani saree in Nauvari drape and wears gold jewelleries with green bangles.
Muga Silk Saree (Assam)
Golden hues on the unparalleled sheen make a Muga silk saree a heirloom of the northeastern state of Assam. Traditionally Muga silk sarees are made with golden zari work on white sarees, but they can be decorated with stonework and mirror work too. Mekhela chador is one integral part of completing the beautiful wedding attire.
Bandhani Lehenga (Gujarat)
The vibrant heritage of Gujarat is represented in their traditional bridal wear – Bandhani silk lehenga. The tie-and-dye patterns and the vibrant colours make these lehengas unique and beautiful. The craft of making these lehenga takes thousands of tiny knots created by the expert artisans of the region.
Gota Patti Lehenga (Rajasthan)
A traditional Rajasthani bride wears an opulent lehenga choli on her wedding day. What makes Gota Patti a true masterpiece is the heavy embellishments and detailed motifs with fine craftsmanship. The outfit speaks royalty, matching the rich regal heritage of the state of Rajasthan, making the bride feel like a queen on her special day.
Salwar Suit (Punjab)
Traditional Punjabi wedding attire for the bride consists of a bright red salwar suit, with chudha and dangling kalire. The suits are usually decorated with phulkari embroidery, stonework, and mirror work. Heavy gold and stoned jewellery complete the bridal outfit. Modern brides from Punjab prefer gorgeous lehengas, but salwar suits remain the traditional choice for many.
