What to Wear to a Party for Guys? From Sherwanis to Suits!

Dressing appropriately for celebrations is a mark of respect for the hosts and the event’s significance. Attire for weddings and parties often carries cultural weight, reflecting personal and societal values. Men’s attire can communicate everything from respect to elegance and often has elements that distinguish it from daily wear. This also leads to the common question, ‘What to wear to a party for guys?’

For formal celebrations like weddings, the clothes embody tradition and sophistication, showing respect for the cultural and familial importance of the event. An outfit suitable for the occasion often includes cultural aspects. 

Indian weddings are known for their grandeur and vibrancy. Traditional attire plays a big part in celebrating these weddings. Key elements of a men’s Hindu wedding guest attire include richly textured fabrics, embellishments like zari or embroidery and accessories like turbans or scarves. Each outfit, whether a sherwani or kurta, signifies cultural heritage and is chosen with care. 

While traditional styles are cherished, modern trends blend these with contemporary elements for a fresh, sophisticated look. For instance, combining a classic sherwani with tailored trousers instead of a churidar, or pairing traditional kurtas with jackets inspired by Western cuts. This fusion of old and new allows men to honor tradition while embracing personal style. 

Basics of Party Attire for Men

Dress Codes for Various Party Types
Dress codes set the tone for any celebration, whether formal, semi-formal or casual. 

• Formal Attire: Typically includes suits, tuxedos, or tailored blazers with trousers. In India, this may also extend to richly embroidered sherwanis or bandhgalas. 

• Semi-Formal: This outfit blends elements of both formal and casual styles, such as blazers with chinos or a neat kurta with a jacket, making it a very cool dress to wear in Indian marriage. 

• Casual Attire: More relaxed with room for personality, like kurtas with jeans or stylish shirts with cotton trousers. 

Indian Wedding Guest Attire: 

Hindu wedding guest attire is unique in its diversity, from the elegance of a sherwani to the relaxed style of a kurta-pajama. Each garment reflects the region, season and event timing: 

• Regional Variations: A wedding in South India may see guests in simple, graceful dhotis, while North Indian events call for sherwanis or bandhgalas. 
  
  
• Seasonal Considerations: Lighter fabrics like cotton are ideal for summer weddings, while velvet or silk suits are preferred for winter. 
  
  
• Event Timings: Day events often feature lighter colors and fabrics, while evening functions call for richer, darker tones and heavier fabrics. 

Traditional Indian Wedding Guest Attires for Men

• Sherwanis
  A long coat-like garment, the sherwani is a classic choice for weddings, often worn with churidars or dhotis. Often made from fabrics like silk, velvet or brocade, sherwanis have intricate embroidery and are popular for their regal appeal. To elevate the look, men often accessorize with stoles, turbans or juttis. Sherwanis are often the most sought-after dress to wear in Indian marriage. 
  
  
  
  
  

• Kurta Pajama Sets 
  A staple in Indian men’s fashion, kurta-pajamas range from simple, everyday styles to heavily embroidered formal designs. Lightweight cotton or linen works well for casual events, while silk is ideal for formal settings. The kurtas often come in classy colors like ivory, pastel shades like light pink and lavender, or deep jewel tones like ruby red, sapphire blue and emerald green.
  
  
  

• Bandhgala and Jodhpuri Suits
  The Bandhgala is a structured, collarless jacket, often paired with tailored trousers for a refined look. The Jodhpuri suit is a close relative of the bandhgala and exudes sophistication. This makes these Hindu wedding guest attires perfect for evening events. They are traditionally worn in darker shades, looking best with a slim fit. 
  
  
  
  
  
  

• Achkan and Angarkha
  Achkans are knee-length coats similar to sherwanis but generally lighter, making them suitable for pre-wedding events. Angarkhas, which were originally worn by Indian Royalty, features a wrap-around style that can be styled with contrasting colors and embroidery, perfect for evening festivities. 

• Dhotis and Lungis
  The dhoti is a traditional garment worn in many regions, usually paired with kurtas or angarkhas. For fusion styling, some men wear dhotis with a short kurta or jacket, creating a unique look that honors cultural heritage and making for a unique dress to wear in Indian marriage. Lungis are also popular in South Indian attire, particularly for casual gatherings or daytime ceremonies. 

Fusion and Contemporary Styles for Indian Weddings and Parties

• Indo-Western Styles
  For those wanting a touch of tradition without a full ethnic look, Indo-Western outfits are ideal. These might include pairing a blazer with a kurta, or a sherwani with slim-cut trousers. Embellishments on Western-style jackets, like embroidered lapels or Indian fabric inserts, can add a subtle nod to cultural heritage. 

• Fusion Outfits for Non-Indian Guests: 
  Hindu wedding guest attire also includes fusion outfits for non-Indians. This involves wearing a suit in vibrant colors, an embroidered jacket or a tailored kurta with classic trousers. Adding subtle Indian-inspired accessories can bring a respectful touch to the outfit. 

• Western Suits with Indian Accessories: 
  Pairing Western attire with accessories like scarves, turbans or juttis can give even classic suits an Indian feel. For instance, a black tuxedo with a colorful stole or turban brings a modern yet culturally resonant look, making for a very classy dress to wear in Indian marriage.

Outfit Ideas by Event Type within the Wedding

• Pre-Wedding Events
  For events like Mehendi and Sangeet, pre-wedding events often call for colorful and comfortable attire. Kurtas with light embroidery for floral motifs are popular, especially in festive colors like yellow, green and pink. Pairing a simple kurta with a Nehru jacket often enhances the outfit’s charm. 

• Wedding Ceremony 
  The main ceremony is the most formal event and often features traditional wear. Rich colors like red, royal blue or gold are appropriate. Hindu wedding guest attires for men typically include sherwanis, bandhgalas or even angarkhas, with accessories like turbans, stoles and juttis. This color and material should match the time of the day, with lighter hues for day events and deeper shades for evening ceremonies. 

• Post-Wedding Reception 
  A modern and sleek look is appropriate for the reception; guests can wear tailored suits, bandhgalas or fusion outfits, allowing a celebratory style with a contemporary edge. Neutral colors like black, navy or grey work well when paired with subtle embroidery or patterns for added sophistication. 

Outfit Ideas for Different Types of Parties Beyond Weddings

• Formal Parties
  Black-tie events require tuxedos or elegant suits. Adding subtle Indian touches, like an embroidered pocket square or a silk scarf, allows men to honor their culture while keeping the formal style intact, and is the solution to a question many men have: ‘What to wear to a party for guys?’
  
  
  

• Semi-Formal Gatherings
  Indo-Western styles work best for semi-formal parties. A Nehru jacket with chinos or a smart casual kurta with trousers strikes the right balance between sophistication and comfort. 

• Casual or Festive Celebrations
  For a more relaxed party look, kurtas with denim or cotton trousers work well. Playful prints or pastel colors in breathable fabrics keep the look festive yet comfortable. Accessorizing with a stylish watch or bracelet can add a touch of elegance without overdressing.

Seasonal and Weather-Based Outfit Recommendations

Summer Styles: 

• Fabric Choices: Light and breathable fabrics like cotton, linen and chambray are essential to keep cool. Fabrics with natural moisture-wicking properties are ideal, particularly for outdoor or daytime events.
• Outfit Ideas: For weddings, opt for pastel-colored kurtas or lightweight cotton sherwanis. Avoid heavy embroidery and choose subtle patterns or minimal embellishments for ventilation. 

• Outdoor Wedding Tips: Consider loose-fitting, unlined jackets, and keep accessories minimal to avoid discomfort in the heat. Sunglasses will add style and functionality. 

Winter Styles: 

• Layering Options: Winter allows for dresses to wear in Indian marriages made from heavier fabrics like wool or velvet, as well as layering with shawls, Nehru jackets or overcoats. Bandhgalas in thicker materials such as silk-wool blends offer warmth and elegance. 

• Outfit Ideas: A sherwani or kurta with a silk-lined shawl, styled over the shoulder, gives a royal look. Velvet achkans are also popular and keep the wearer warm. 

• Style Tips: Use accessories like woollen scarves and pashmina stoles to add a little bit of winter style to Hindu wedding guest attires. Opt for darker shades like deep blues, maroons or emeralds, which suit the winter aesthetic. 

Monsoon and Rainy Season: 

• Fabric Choices: Lightweight and moisture-absorbing fabrics such as polyester blends or high-quality synthetics are suitable for events during rainy weather. Cotton-silk blends resist humidity and maintain breathability. 

• Practical Footwear: Waterproof footwear, like synthetic mojris and rubber-soled juttis prevent slipping and can withstand wet conditions better than traditional leather. 

• Style Tips: Keep accessories simple to avoid rust or water damage. Choose shorter kurtas to avoid wet hems and consider carrying a compact and stylish umbrella. 

Accessorizing Men’s Party Outfits

Essential Accessories: 

• Belts and Watches: For fusion or semi-formal styles, a sleek leather belt or metal strap watch can add sophistication. Gold or silver-toned watches will match well with traditional Hindu wedding guest attire, as well as other party wear. 

• Jewelry: Rings, bracelets and cufflinks add polish to any outfit. For ethnic wear, a simple bracelet accessory can provide an elegant touch. 

Turbans and Headgear:

• Styles and Significance: Turbans vary in style by region. North Indian weddings often feature bright-colored turbans, while some South Indian ceremonies use white headgear, which adds sophistication to many dresses to wear in Indian marriages. 

• Color Coordination: Turbans are often chosen to match the outfit’s secondary color, or they contrast to add vibrancy. Lighter turbans suit day events, while darker or jewel-toned turbans work well for evenings. 

Scarves and Dupattas: 

• Creative Draping: For Sherwanis worn as Hindu wedding guest attire, the dupatta can be draped over one shoulder for a symmetrical look. 

• Color Tips: Opt for contrasting shades to add dimension to the outfit. A beige kurta can be elevated with a rich red or green dupatta. 

Footwear Choices: 

• Traditional Styles: Mojris and Juttis in leather, suede or brocade add elegance to the traditional Hindu wedding guest attire. 

• Modern Options: Loafers or formal shoes work well with fusion outfits, especially with Indo-Western suits. Go for neutral shades that match the outfit or darker hues for evening events. 

Brooches, Buttons and Pocket Square: 

• Elevating the Look: Brooches and ornate buttons add a subtle shine to ethnic wear, especially for bandhgalas and sherwanis. Pocket squares in silk or brocade can bring a pop of color to any Western or fusion dress to wear in Indian marriages. 

Party Outfit Ideas for Different Body Types

Body Type-Specific Recommendations: 

• Slim Body Types: Opt for fabrics with a little bit of weight, like silk, and help add volume. Tailored fits in jackets or bandhgalas complement the body’s shape. 

• Muscular Body Types: Choose outfits with a structured fit to highlight your physique. Avoid overly loose clothing, which can obscure the shape. 

Outfit Tips for Taller Men: 

• Proportional Choices: Avoid excessively long kurtas or tunics, which can exaggerate height. Mid-length kurtas with fitted trousers balance the frame. 

• Color Tips: Darker shades and subtle patterns will help soften the overall look of the  Hindu wedding guest attire. 

Tips for Shorter Men: 

• Streamlined Silhouettes: Avoid bulky layers and opt for slim-fit kurtas or bandhgalas to create a streamlined effect. Vertical patterns or pinstripes can also add height. 

• Accessory Tips: Choose minimal accessories to avoid overwhelming the frame of the dress to wear in Indian marriage. 

Cultural Etiquette and Regional Variations for Indian Weddings

Cultural Sensitivities: 

• Color Symbolism: Traditionally, colors like black and white are avoided as they are associated with mourning in Indian culture. Red, gold and yellow are popular for their festive symbolism, while pastel shades have also become highly trendy. 

• Appropriate attire for religious ceremonies: For Hindu weddings, respectful attire that covers shoulders and knees is appropriate. Sikh weddings require the guests to cover their heads with scarves or turbans. 

Regional Dressing Customs: 

• North India: Sherwanis, Bandhgalas and traditional turbans are popular, and dresses to wear in Indian marriage made from fabrics like silk or velvet are common. 

• South India: Dhoti or lungis with a silk shirt or kurta is the traditional outfit. Men may also opt for lightweight fabrics like cotton, as they provide comfort in the region’s warm climate. 

• East India: Bengali men often wear dhotis, which are paired with the kurta, or Panjabi, and sometimes elevated with a silk shawl. 
• West India: Gujaratis may opt for a kediyu, which is a type of jacket, with dhotis, while Maharashtrians wear dhotis and pagadis, which are traditional turbans.  

What not to wear: 

• Avoid overly casual attire: This includes jeans, T-shirts or overly informal clothing, as they don’t make for appropriate dresses to wear in Indian marriage. 

• Consider cultural sensitivities: Avoid attire that may be too revealing or flashy in religious settings, as modesty during these times is appreciated. 

Grooming Tips for a Polished Look

Skin Care and Hair Care for a Party-Ready Look: 

• Pre-event Skincare: Cleansing and moisturizing can help maintain a fresh appearance. For events held during the day, applying a sunscreen moisturizer is essential. 

• Hair Care: Regular conditioning helps keep hair manageable and glossy. A leave-in conditioner or hair serum will reduce frizz, and add shine to your hair, making for a perfect party-ready look! 

Beard and Hair Styling Tips: 

• Beard: A well-groomed beard complements traditional Hindu wedding guest attire perfectly. Opt for neatly trimmed styles for formal events or a groomed stubble for a slightly casual look. 

• Hair Styling: Choose a hairstyle that compliments the outfit’s formality. A slicked-back style works best with suits, while a tousled look is suitable for more relaxed, daytime events. 

Perfume and Fragrance Tips: 

• Fragrance Choice by Event Type: For daytime events, choose light, citrus or refreshing floral scents. For evening events, go for richer and muskier tones that last longer. 

• Seasonal Fragrances: Fresh, citrus-based scents are well-suited for the summer, while warmer, woodsy fragrances suit winter celebrations. 

Visual Gallery and Interactive Outfit Selector

At Suvidha Fashion, you will find a variety of outfits for men; whether it's for a wedding or a party! From the regal sherwani, accessorized by a necklace and dupatta, to the smart three-piece suit, with a little touch of uniqueness thanks to the bow tie. You will also find a kurta-pajama to keep the look sleek and simple, or you can add a sprinkle of tradition with a Bandhgala and turban! 
Whatever the look, Suvidha Fashion has it all!

Conclusion

Dressing for Indian weddings and parties is about more than just style; it’s an opportunity to honor tradition, celebrate culture, and express personal taste. Whether you choose a classic sherwani, a modern Indo-Western fusion, or choose to accessorize with thoughtful details, the right outfit can create a lasting impression and showcase respect for the occasion. With attention to seasonal needs, regional customs and personalized styling, men can find versatile options that allow them to enjoy the festivities with confidence, comfort and class. 

Now that you have found the answer to the question, ‘What to wear to a party for guys?’ you need to find the outfit that suits you and your style. Head to Suvidha Fashions online store or the Complete family store; you will find a wide range of Sherwanis, Bandhgalas, Kurta-Pajamas, formal clothes and even outfits for specific regional ceremonies! Our stylists will help you with color combinations and accessories, and make sure you leave with a Hindu wedding guest attire designed just for you!