How To Strategize Shopping For Bridesmaids And Groomsmen In A South Asian Wedding

Wedding shopping stress is worse than holiday shopping according to a recent Rakuten’s research. Your shopping goals could be diverse. Sticking to a color palette, theme or we-don’t-care concept. But, the approach remains the same. More you prepare, better it gets.

Le Theme

Every wedding has a story, a palette of colors, and a vibe unique to the couple. Start by defining this theme. Whether it’s a serene beach wedding, a rustic countryside affair, or a lavish ballroom event, the theme sets the stage for your bridal party’s attire. Start with creating a shared Pinterest board, agree on colors, outfit styles and move on to the look books. If you shop online, ensure the fit is taken care. We hardly see a bridesmaid not having to alter the lehenga blouse after it reaches the USA.

Bridesmaids

Choosing the right color and style for bridesmaids’ dresses is crucial. Opt for colors that complement the individual’s preference, wedding color palette and the event being outdoor or indoor. 

Consider embracing diversity with mix-and-match dress styles in the same color scheme, allowing each bridesmaid to showcase her personality while maintaining a unified look.

• Color Palette: It is best to get a copy of your design deck or the mood board from the wedding planners. When in doubt, google Pantone
• Dress Styles: Choose a style that you are comfortable with. For example, a first time pre-draped saree is less preferable than your always go-to short dress.
• Video Calls: When in doubt, call the boutique in India where you order the south asian outfits. Ask all the questions you have before they ship it. Seeing it online is different from seeing it in person.
• Accessories: Functional accessories like a clutch takes priority here. If it is an outdoor summer event, hand fans from motherland sets the south asian vibe.

Groomsmen

The groomsmen’s attire should complement their personality and echo the bridesmaids’ style. Choose kurtas or tuxedos that align with the wedding’s formality, and add color-coordinated accessories like, pocket squares, or boutonnieres.

• Kurta vs. Dhoti: Decide based on the comfort level. Lighter fabrics work well for daytime or outdoor ceremonies, while darker, more luxurious materials are perfect for evening events. When in doubt, go white.
• Matching Elements: A tie, bowtie, or pocket square in a hue that matches or complements the bridesmaids’ dresses can unify the bridal party’s look.
• Personal Touches: Encourage groomsmen to express their style with unique cufflinks, socks, or a watch that stays within the defined concept.

Logistics

Achieving a desired look requires more than just matching colors; it’s about the subtle interplay of styles, fabrics, and details. Consider the following:

• Check if your desired outfit is in a local boutique in the USA. If yes, try there before ordering online from India.
• Befriend a good seamstress who could alter any mishaps with your south asian outfit
• Always have a back up outfit if there are issues with the logistics of Plan A outfit.

Bridal Styling

Professional bridal styling services, such as Pattupleats, offer invaluable assistance in achieving a desired bridal party look. 

The above mentioned strategies help anyone planning a wedding. But hey, planning a wedding is a full time job. So, a bridal styling company fast tracks the results, helps with finding local seamstresses around you, bring a seamstress to the event on-site to steam, stitch any last minute saree snags.

Bridal Stylists also collaborate with your other vendors like MUAs, hair stylists to set the expectations of inspirations, preferences and more. Remember it is not about how to shop smart but who can shop smart for you!

Conclusion

Couples should focus on shopping for outfits for bridesmaids and groomsmen. This will help perfect the wedding’s look. These outfits enhance the charm of the day. Couples can try styling strategies and services such as Pattupleats to make their bridal party look great. Thorough planning and attention to detail guarantee an unforgettable wedding shopping experience.