Special Occasion Style Guide: From Mehendi to Reception — What to Wear & How to Decide

South-Asian celebrations are more than events — they are a symphony of colour, culture, tradition, and luxury. Each function calls for a distinct look, mood, and aesthetic. And at O’NITAA London, we believe every outfit should tell your story with elegance, craftsmanship, and timeless beauty.

Whether you’re a bride, groom, family member, or honoured guest, this style guide will help you choose the perfect ensemble for each celebration — from Mehendi to Reception — with confidence and flair.

Mehendi: Fresh, Playful, & Effortlessly Stylish

Mood: Vibrant, festive, relaxed glamour
Colour Palette: Citrus yellow, lime green, coral, mint, pastels, floral tones
Fabrics & Craft: Light silks, georgettes, organza, mirror work, gota, thread embroidery

Outfit Ideas

  • Brides: Lightweight lehenga or sharara with floral embroidery or mirror accents
  • Grooms: Pastel kurta with Nehru jacket or casual embroidered kurta set
  • Guests: Palazzo sets, kurta-sharara pairs, pastel sarees, floral anarkalis

Styling Tip: Comfort is key — opt for breathable fabrics and minimal jewellery.

Sangeet: Sparkle, Dance & Statement Glam

Mood: Bold, glamorous, dance-friendly
Colour Palette: Jewel tones—emerald, plum, sapphire, gold, navy, champagne
Fabrics & Craft: Sequins, zardozi, mukaish, crystal hand-embellishment

Outfit Ideas

  • Brides: Dramatic lehengas with flowing dupattas or modern pre-draped sarees
  • Grooms: Velvet sherwanis, Indo-western bandhgala suits, embroidered waistcoats
  • Guests: Metallic sarees, shimmer gowns, Indo-western fusion attire

Styling Tip: Choose outfits with movement — twirl-worthy lehengas & fluid drapes shine under lights.

Wedding Day: Classic, Regal & Timeless

Mood: Sacred, traditional, royal
Colour Palette: Classic red, deep maroon, ivory-gold, pastel bridal hues, emerald accents
Fabrics & Craft: Banarasi silk, pure bridal zardozi, pearls, dabka, resham hand-work

Outfit Ideas

  • Brides: Heritage lehenga with handcrafted embroidery & statement dupatta
  • Grooms: Traditional sherwani with turban & stole; embroidered juttis
  • Guests: Silk sarees, brocade suits, regal lehengas, formal sherwanis

Styling Tip: Prioritise classic silhouettes that photograph beautifully and age gracefully.

Reception: Modern Luxe with a Contemporary Edge

Mood: Sophisticated, refined, celebration glam
Colour Palette: Ivory, champagne, rose gold, charcoal, black, silver
Fabrics & Craft: Metallic threadwork, pearls, crystals, couture draping

Outfit Ideas

Brides: Statement gowns, draped saree gowns, modern lehengas with structured blouses
Grooms: Tuxedo-sherwani fusion, velvet tux, embellished dinner jacket
Guests: Evening gowns, sleek sarees, couture Indo-western sets

Styling Tip: Fine jewellery, elegant heels, and sleek hairstyles complete the look.

How to Decide the Right Outfit for Each Function

  • Balance Tradition & Personality — honour culture, but celebrate your style
  • Coordinate with the Bridal/Groom Party — subtle theme, not identical outfits
  • Consider Venue & Theme — palace, marquee, ballroom, garden — dress accordingly
  • Season Matters — lighter fabrics for summer, richer textures for winter
  • Plan Jewellery & Dupatta Draping with Each Look

Book a personal styling consultation at O’NITAA London — our team will curate your looks for every event.

Experience Luxury Couture at O’NITAA London

From hand-embroidered lehengas to bespoke menswear, every piece at O’NITAA celebrates craftsmanship, heritage, and modern glamour. Whether you are preparing for your dream wedding or attending a grand celebration, we bring the finest South-Asian couture to London.

🛍️ Explore exclusive bridal, menswear & occasion collections
💬 Private styling appointments available

Because every celebration becomes unforgettable when you dress in timeless luxury.

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