What To Wear
Dress code: festive and colourful!
You are welcome to wear whatever you feel comfortable in to the wedding whether this be a suit or a dress. If you want to know what the traditional style of clothing for a Nepali wedding is and what the majority of guests will be wearing, we have put a brief guide below.
You can buy or have outfits tailored cheaply and quickly in Kathmandu (Thamel and New Road are good places to start). Allow a few days if you’re getting something made. We are more than happy to help you find an outfit in Kathmandu also, just let us know.
Women can wear
Saree
A long length of unstitched fabric (about 4.5 to 9 metres) that’s wrapped around the waist, with one end draped over the shoulder. It’s worn with a fitted blouse (choli) and an underskirt (petticoat).
Kurti surwal
A two-piece outfit of a long tunic and loose trousers, often worn with a matching scarf. It’s comfy and modest. Cotton versions are everyday wear, while silk or georgette versions with modern designs are perfect for festivals and weddings.
Lehenga
A three-piece outfit worn mainly at festivals and weddings: a flared, ankle-length skirt, a fitted blouse, and a dupatta (a long scarf that matches the outfit).
Men can wear
Daura surwal
Nepal’s traditional men’s outfit, and once the national dress. The daura is a closed-neck tunic with eight ties and five pleats, worn with surwal, trousers that taper at the ankle. A coat or waistcoat goes over the top, a tradition that dates back to the 1800s. Add a dhaka topi (the traditional Nepali hat) to finish the look.
Kurta surwal
A simpler option: a long kurta shirt worn with loose trousers. It’s comfortable, easy to find, and you can dress it up with a waistcoat or scarf.
Where to get an outfit
You can buy or have outfits tailored cheaply and quickly in Kathmandu (Thamel and New Road are good places to start). Allow a few days if you’re getting something made. Ready-to-wear sets are also sold complete, with tailoring options. We are more than happy to help you with finding a store and getting outfits, let us know if you need any help.
A few things to keep in mind
The bride will be wearing red. It’s traditionally the bride’s colour, however it can also be worn by guests.
Avoid all-white or all-black outfits. In Nepali Hindu culture these can be associated with mourning.
Cover up a bit for the ceremony. Shoulders and knees covered is a safe bet.
Wear shoes you can slip on and off easily. You may need to take them off near the ceremony area.
Bring a warm layer! Days are mild and sunny in December, but evenings drop close to freezing, and the reception runs into the night. A nice jacket, shawl or pashmina is perfect (you can pick one up in Kathmandu for next to nothing).