Groom's Wedding Outfit Guide: Sherwanis, Bandhgalas and Kurtas for the Big Day
Updated: June 21, 2026 | Written by Saroj Jain, Fashion Designer, Bangalore
A groom's wedding wardrobe is as important as the bride's. Indian grooms today have more options than ever. Sherwanis, bandhgalas, Indo-Western suits, and silk kurtas each suit different functions and body types. The groom typically needs 3 to 5 outfits for a full wedding season. The wedding sherwani is the most important piece. It should fit perfectly, complement the bride's outfit, and be comfortable enough to wear for 6 to 8 hours. At our JP Nagar boutique, we custom stitch groomswear for all functions. Roughly 2 out of 10 clients who visit us are men ordering wedding outfits.
This guide covers what grooms should wear for each wedding function and how to choose the right silhouette. Shop groomswear at sarojjain.com or book a consultation at meet.sarojjain.com.
Quick Summary
- Grooms need 3 to 5 outfits for a full wedding. Sherwani for wedding, bandhgala for reception
- The sherwani should complement the bride's outfit colour without matching exactly
- Custom stitching is recommended for men because ready-made shoulders rarely fit properly
- Avoid very heavy sherwanis for daytime events. Lighter fabrics for haldi and mehendi
- Start custom orders 6 to 8 weeks before the wedding
Groom's Outfits by Function
The groom needs different outfits for each wedding function, just like the bride. For haldi and mehendi, a cotton kurta set in yellow or cream is comfortable and practical. Turmeric stains fabric, so choose something washable. The Steel Blue Chanderi Kurta Set (Rs. 2,499) works for the groom who wants a non-yellow option for daytime events. For the sangeet and cocktail, a bandhgala or Indo-Western jacket over a kurta creates a stylish look. The Truffle Silk Ensemble (Rs. 2,499) in its neutral tone works for the groom who wants a sophisticated evening look that photographs well.
For the wedding ceremony, the sherwani is the traditional choice. Choose a colour that complements the bride's outfit. If she wears red, the groom can wear ivory, gold, or maroon. If she wears pastel, the groom can wear a deeper matching tone. For the reception, a bandhgala suit or silk kurta set in a colour different from the wedding outfit gives the groom a distinct second look. The Truffle Silk Ensemble and Black Shadow Co-Ord Set (Rs. 3,500) work for grooms who prefer modern silhouettes over traditional sherwanis. The Rani Pink Anarkali Set (Rs. 3,499) works for grooms who want a coordinated look with the bride at the reception.
Sherwani vs Bandhgala vs Kurta Set
| Factor | Sherwani | Bandhgala | Silk Kurta Set |
|---|---|---|---|
| Formality | Highest | High | Medium-High |
| Best function | Wedding ceremony | Reception, sangeet | Engagement, reception |
| Comfort | Moderate | Good | Excellent |
| Fabric weight | Heavy | Medium | Light to medium |
| Custom needed | Yes | Recommended | Recommended |
| Price at SJ | Custom quote | Custom quote | From Rs. 2,499 |
How to Choose the Right Sherwani
The sherwani is the groom's most important outfit. It needs to fit perfectly across the shoulders and chest because these areas are visible throughout the ceremony. Ready-made sherwanis rarely fit well because Indian men have varied shoulder-to-waist ratios. Custom stitching is strongly recommended. At our boutique, we take 6 measurements for a sherwani and offer a trial fitting before the final stitch. The sherwani colour should complement the bride's outfit. Ivory, gold, beige, and maroon are traditional groom colours. Navy, green, and grey are modern alternatives. Avoid black for the wedding ceremony. It is considered less festive. The sherwani fabric should match the season. Lightweight silk and crepe for summer. Heavier silk and velvet blends for winter. We recommend ordering the sherwani 6 to 8 weeks before the wedding to allow time for fittings and adjustments.
Groom Accessories
A groom's accessories complete the outfit. A safa or turban in a colour that matches the sherwani is traditional for North Indian weddings. A brooch or pin on the sherwani adds personality. Mojari or juttis in matching or contrasting colours are the traditional footwear choice. A watch should be simple and elegant. Avoid large sports watches. For the reception, a pocket square adds style to a bandhgala. For the sangeet, minimal accessories let the outfit speak. At our boutique, we help grooms choose accessories that match their outfit's colour palette. The key is to coordinate, not match. If the sherwani is ivory with gold embroidery, gold juttis and a gold brooch create a cohesive look.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many outfits does a groom need for a wedding?
3 to 5 outfits. One for haldi or mehendi, one for sangeet, one for the wedding, one for reception, and optionally one for the engagement or pre-wedding shoot.
Should the groom match the bride's outfit?
Complement, do not match. If the bride wears red, the groom can wear ivory, gold, or maroon. Coordinating colours creates a cohesive look without looking like you tried too hard.
Is a sherwani necessary for the wedding?
Traditional weddings call for a sherwani. Modern weddings may allow a bandhgala or Indo-Western suit. Check with the bride and family about the dress code before deciding.
How long does custom groomswear take?
6 to 8 weeks for a sherwani. 4 to 6 weeks for a bandhgala or kurta set. We recommend starting 2 to 3 months before the wedding.
Can I wear a kurta to my wedding instead of a sherwani?
Yes, if the wedding is less formal or if the bride agrees. A silk kurta set in a rich colour with minimal accessories creates a modern, understated groom look.
Where can I find custom groomswear in Bangalore?
Saroj Jain in JP Nagar custom stitches sherwanis, bandhgalas, and kurta sets for grooms. Shop at sarojjain.com or book a consultation at meet.sarojjain.com.
Shop groomswear at sarojjain.com. Book a consultation at meet.sarojjain.com.
