Sherwanis have long been a symbol of elegance, tradition, and grandeur in South Asian weddings. As one of the most iconic pieces of attire for grooms and wedding guests alike, the designer sherwani holds significant importance across all wedding events. However, styling it appropriately for each occasion is essential to create a memorable and fitting look. Whether it’s the main wedding ceremony, Mehendi, or reception, each event calls for a distinct sherwani style to match the tone and setting. This guide will walk you through how to style a sherwani for various wedding events, ensuring you look your best every step of the way.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Sherwani
Before diving into event-specific styles, it’s essential to understand the heritage and varieties of the sherwani. Originating from the Mughal era, the sherwani was a symbol of nobility, worn by emperors and royalty. Over time, it evolved into the go-to outfit for grooms across South Asia, celebrated for its regal appeal.
Different types of sherwanis:
- Classic sherwani: A traditional piece with a straight-cut design, often paired with churidar or pajama.
- Indo-Western sherwani: A modern take featuring contemporary cuts and sleek designs, perfect for those who prefer a fusion look.
- Angrakha sherwani: Distinguished by its overlapping front panels, often worn for more festive or cultural ceremonies.
- Dhoti sherwani: Paired with a dhoti rather than a churidar, offering a traditional yet unique appeal.
- Prince coat sherwani: A shorter version that offers a more structured, tailored look, ideal for modern tastes.
Styling for the Main Wedding Ceremony
The wedding ceremony is the most significant event, where your designer sherwani must reflect tradition, luxury, and sophistication.
1. Choosing the Right Fabric and Color
For this occasion, you can never go wrong with traditional colors like gold, maroon, or ivory. These shades not only carry a royal touch but also align perfectly with the grandeur of the event. Fabrics such as silk, brocade, and velvet are highly recommended for their rich texture and luxurious feel.
2. Embellishments and Embroidery
Sherwanis for the main ceremony is often adorned with intricate embroidery, including zardozi, resham, or sequin work. The heavier the embellishment, the more regal your appearance. Embroidered cuffs, collars, and hemlines can also add a layer of elegance.
3. Accessories
Complete the look with a matching turban, a rich stole or shawl, and a statement brooch pinned to your sherwani. For footwear, traditional mojris or juttis add the perfect finishing touch to your wedding day ensemble.
Styling for the Reception
The reception is an event where you can experiment with modern, sleek sherwani styles while maintaining an elegant look.
1. Modern and Sleek Look
Indo-Western sherwanis work beautifully here, with their asymmetrical cuts, unique buttons, and contemporary designs. Slim-fit trousers or jodhpurs pair perfectly with these modern pieces, creating a streamlined, sharp silhouette.
2. Minimalist Accessories
Keep accessories simple but elegant. A classy watch, a sleek brooch, or even cufflinks can subtly enhance your look without overwhelming the ensemble.
Styling for the Sangeet
The Sangeet is a lively night of music and dancing, so comfort without compromising style is key.
1. Comfort and Style
Lighter fabrics like silk blends or even cotton work well for ease of movement. Bright, festive colors like yellow, orange, or green reflect the joyous nature of the event and ensure you stand out on the dance floor.
2. Fusion Elements
Consider pairing your sherwani with a Nehru jacket or waistcoat for a fusion look. Mixing traditional styles with modern elements adds versatility and flair to your outfit while maintaining its cultural significance.
Styling for the Mehendi
Mehendi ceremonies are generally more relaxed, so a casual yet stylish sherwani is ideal.
1. Casual and Comfortable:
Opt for a simpler, less embellished sherwani in comfortable fabrics like cotton or linen. Lighter shades like pastel green, yellow, or even white can give off a refreshing vibe while keeping you comfortable throughout the event.
2. Playful Accessories
This is the perfect occasion to play around with quirky accessories, such as colorful stoles or vibrant turbans. Fun details like patterned pocket squares or embroidered shoes can add personality to your look.
Styling for Other Pre-Wedding Events
There are often other pre-wedding events like the Engagement and Haldi ceremonies, each requiring a different approach to sherwani styling.
1. Engagement Ceremony
For the engagement, opt for an elegant, sophisticated sherwani with moderate embellishments. Coordinating your sherwani with the bride’s outfit can create a harmonious look that photographs beautifully.
2. Haldi Ceremony
Since the Haldi event can get messy, light-colored sherwanis in easy-to-clean fabrics like cotton or linen are best. Shades of white, cream, or yellow with minimal embroidery will not only look fresh but also be easy to manage during the ceremony.
General Styling Tips
1. Fit and Tailoring
A well-fitted sherwani is essential for looking sharp. Ensure that your sherwani is tailored to your body type—slim cuts for leaner bodies, and looser fits for broader frames. Pay attention to sleeve length and shoulder fit to ensure a flattering silhouette.
2. Footwear Choices
For more traditional events, stick with mojris or juttis to keep your look classic. For modern events like the reception, sleek leather shoes can give you a contemporary edge.
3. Layering and Mixing Styles
Adding layers like a Nehru jacket or a waistcoat can bring dimension to your sherwani. Mixing traditional and modern styles—such as pairing a classic sherwani with contemporary accessories—can also create a unique, personalized look.
Conclusion
A designer sherwani is more than just a wedding outfit—it’s a statement of style, tradition, and culture. Each wedding event provides an opportunity to explore different looks, from classic and regal to modern and playful. By carefully choosing your sherwani, accessories, and footwear for each occasion, you can ensure that your style stands out while honoring the significance of the event. So, whether it’s the vibrant Sangeet or the grand wedding ceremony, don’t be afraid to experiment with sherwani styles and make each moment memorable.
