Below is a helpful guide to common outfit styles you may see at a South Asian celebration. Guests are encouraged to wear colorful, vibrant, festive attire.

1. Lehenga (lain-gah): a long, flared skirt with a fitted blouse (called a choli) and a draped scarf (called a dupatta)

2. Sari (sorry not sorry): a single piece of fabric thats draped around the entire body and paired with a fitted blouse and petticoat. FYI this is harder to dance in.

3. Shalwar Kameez (shull-waar kuh-meez): the national dress of Pakistan. Consists of a long tunic (kameez) and loose pants (shalwar) with a matching dupatta.

4. Anarkali Suit (uhh-nar-kuh-lee): a long, flowy dress-style top paired with fitted pants (churidar) and a dupatta. Its giving maxi-dress. Named after a Mughal-era royal court dancer

5. Sharara Suit (sha-ra-ra): a 3 piece outfit that has a short tunic, wide-leg flared pants (sharara) and dupatta. This style popular for mehndi events.

6. Gharara Suit (guh-ra-ra): similar to a sharara, but the flare begins at the knee instead of the thigh.

7. Kurta Pajama (Men): a long tunic (kurta) worn with fitted trousers (pajama)

8. Sherwani (Men): a formal long coat worn over trousers. More formal than a kurta.

9. Kurta with Waistcoat (Men): a kurta pajama paired with a decorative and colorful vest.

These websites ship within the United States and are reputable sources for Pakistani and Indian attire. Shipping may take some time so try to order 1-2 months in advance.

1. Lashkaraa (the brides go-to): https://www.lashkaraa.com

2. Aza Fashions (US shipping): https://www.azafashions.com

3. Pernia’s Pop-Up Shop: https://www.perniaspopupshop.com

4. Kalki Fashion: https://www.kalkifashion.com

5. Mirraw: https://www.mirraw.com

6. Manyavar (excellent for men): https://www.manyavar.com