colourful crowd of people grooving to imposing beats of loud music, the baraat is one of the most happening rituals of most Indian weddings. It marks the entry of the groom with his family and friends to the wedding venue. In India, this ritual is performed with great zing and style – with baraatis or the groom’s entourage dancing gaily to peppy tunes of Bhangra, Bollywood and Indian folk songs.
The timing of baraat varies according to different religions as it precedes the wed-lock ceremony. For example, Punjabis and Marwadis have their wedding ceremony after dusk, hence the baraat procession starts later in the evening. Gujaratis, Maharashtrian and many other groups have their wedding ceremony during the day. Hence, their baraat processions are carried out in the heat under the usually harsh Indian sun.
Usually guests wear their outfits chosen for the marital rituals for the baraat as well, since it immediately precedes the wedding function. But, most wedding outfits are heavily embellished and wearing such outfits, while grooving in a crowd – that too in the heat – can be disastrous. This may cause excessive sweating and ruin your entire look for the wed-lock function. Moreover, wearing heavy outfits makes it difficult to dance. Hence it’s wise to opt for outfits that not just look dressy for the wed-lock ceremony, but also allow you to comfortably enjoy the wedding baraat.
Here are some cool and ornate wardrobe ideas for men and women that can be comfortably carried off for the baraat as well as the wedding function that would follow.
Wardrobe Ideas For Women
Palazzo Suit:
Georgette, silk or cotton palazzo suits with light embellishments give a contemporary fusion look and are a great replacement to heavy lehengas. Opt for brighter colours like red, green, blue or yellow for day-time and darker hues like maroon, brown or grey for evening.
Trouser-Style Salwar Suits:
These days, the influence of the western culture is clearly visible in the wardrobe preferences of Indians. Salwar kameez being a typically traditional outfit is less preferred, especially by younger women. A trouser-style salwar suit is a beautiful adaptation of this ethnic garment. Trouser-style suits with flared tops and long slits look contemporary. Pairing them with statement jewellery would make an ideal outfit for baraat.
Skirt-Crop Top Coordinate:
For those who cannot resist wearing a lehenga for wedding functions, an indo-western skirt and crop top set is ideal for baraat processions. Opt for a plain set with light embroidery and embellishments or a colourful printed set to make an impact while being comfortably stylish!
Lehenga Saree:
When it’s a family wedding, you may want to be very decked up and that might make you compromise with the element of comfort. However, if you’re planning to wear a saree for the baraat, it is better to opt for a lehenga saree. Lehenga sarees are easier to wear and carry around.
Wardrobe Ideas for Men
A groom’s friends and cousins are the epicentre of energy in a wedding baraat. While heavy outfits may look stylish, they may feel choking after a while, especially if the procession goes under harsh sunrays. Here are some cool wardrobe ideas for men who prefer being comfortably stylish and highly energetic during the baraat:
Indo-Western Suits:
Lighter hues tend to keep your cool for a longer time. Opt for indo-western suits like a Jodhpuri top teamed with dhoti pants or a kurta with loose bottoms. Try to avoid churidars and heavy embellished sherwanis.
Weddings are an ideal time to socialize and make happy memories. Choose outfits that are not just stylish but also comfortable so that your wardrobe doesn’t spoil your fun!