
What is Indian Chic? Your Guide to Understanding The Ambani Wedding Dress Code
From opulent lehengas to chic fusion wear, here’s what to expect from the fashion spectacle of the year…
As the anticipation for Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant’s wedding grows, the leaked invite has everyone buzzing. With three distinct events — Shubh Vivaah, Shubh Aashirwad, and Mangal Utsav — each carrying its own unique dress code, the two questions on everyone’s minds are: What on earth do these dress codes mean, and what will they all wear? With that in mind, we have created the ultimate guide to answer your questions, below…
The Leaked Wedding Card
The elegantly designed card, featuring intricate gold details, invites guests to the grand ceremony set for July 12 at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai. The three-day celebration will follow traditional Hindu Vedic rituals, beginning with the Shubh Vivah on July 12, followed by the Shubh Aashirwad ceremony on July 13, and concluding with a lavish reception on July 14.

Shubh Vivaah Dress Code: What is Indian Traditional?
Think timeless elegance with a touch of heritage. This dress code calls for traditional Indian attire, calling for classic silhouettes and intricate details.

Expect To See…
Sabyasachi
Known for his regal lehengas and sarees, Sabyasachi’s designs are a staple for any high-profile wedding. Expect luxurious fabrics adorned with heavy embroidery and exquisite jewellery to complement the look.

Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla
Their opulent designs are perfect for the grandeur of a traditional Indian wedding. Remember Isha Ambani’s blouse made entirely of jadau jewellery? That’s the kind of jaw-dropping craftsmanship to anticipate.

Rimple and Harpreet
Their designs are a tribute to India’s rich artisanal heritage, often featuring elaborate handwork- as seen all throughout Heeramandi.

Varun Bahl
Bahl’s designs consists of bohemian motifs—from baroque to tropical- with a vintage charm that remains traditional yet unique.

Looks on Our Radar:
- Lehenga cholis with intricate embroidery and rich fabrics.
- Sarees with heavy borders and traditional motifs.
- Sherwanis for men with detailed work, paired with churidars or dhoti pants
Shubh Aashirwad Dress Code: What is Indian Formal?
A step up from everyday wear, Indian Formal expects elegance and glamour. It’s a chance to showcase sophisticated silhouettes and luxurious fabrics.

Expect To See:
Manish Malhotra
His designs are synonymous with Bollywood glamour, perfect for a formal yet dazzling look. Shimmering lehengas and sarees with intricate beadwork- yes, please!

Tarun Tahiliani
Known for his blend of contemporary and traditional styles, his creations often feature stunning drapes and luxurious fabrics.

Falguni Shane Peacock
Their designs are a blend of modernity and tradition, often featuring bold embellishments and intricate details. Perfect for making a statement- as per Aishwarya Rai’s Cannes 2024 look.

Rahul Mishra
His sustainable designs bring a modern twist to traditional wear, with intricate embroidery and innovative silhouettes.

Looks on Our Radar:
- Elegant sarees with intricate beadwork- maybe pearls- and sequin details.
- Anarkali suits with rich fabrics and detailed embroidery
- Men in tailored bandhgala suits or Nehru jackets
Mangal Utsav Dress Code: What is Indian Chic?
Modern, trendy, and effortlessly stylish. Indian Chic is all about contemporary silhouettes with a touch of traditional elements.

Expect To See:
Ridhi Mehra
Known for her fusion wear, expect stylish lehengas and sarees with a modern twist.

Arpita Mehta
Her designs are youthful and vibrant, often featuring playful prints and chic silhouettes.

Gaurav Gupta
Known for his avant-garde designs, Gaurav Gupta’s outfits are ideal for making a fashion-forward statement.

Papa Don’t Preach by Shubhika
Expect quirky, colourful designs with a mix of traditional and super-fun elements, like these little gold hearts below…

Anamika Khanna
Her designs blend traditional Indian aesthetics with contemporary cuts. This stunning piece worn by actress Bhumi Pednakar is prime example of this.

Looks on Our Radar:
- Lehengas with contemporary cuts and vibrant prints.
- Fusion sarees with modern draping styles.
Lead image courtesy of Instagram/@taruntahillani