STORIES BY MANYAVAR & MOHEY

Lifestyle
Casual Groom’s Attire: Stylish Alternatives for a Laid-Back Wedding
Date 15 April 2025 Reading time: 7-10 mins
Indian weddings are vibrant, colourful, and steeped in tradition, but modern grooms often prefer casual attire for certain functions (and even the wedding day!). Whether it's a Mehendi ceremony, cocktail party, or intimate reception, relaxed yet stylish outfits strike the perfect balance between comfort and charm. This guide explores effortless and casual groom's attire options, blending contemporary trends with Indian heritage for a standout look.
Understanding The Concept of Casual Groom's Attire
First things first, let's get one thing straight - casual groom's attire doesn't mean showing up to your wedding in ripped jeans and a graphic tee! It's all about finding that sweet spot between comfort and style, tradition and trends. Think breathable fabrics, relaxed silhouettes, and easy-to-wear pieces that let you move freely, smile widely, and maybe even bust a move on the dance floor.
The key is to choose outfits that are dressy enough to befit the occasion, yet laidback enough to match your personality. So instead of ornate sherwanis, think sleek kurtas, breezy linen jackets, and slim-fit trousers. Swap those pointy juttis for comfy mojris or sneakers. And go easy on the bling - a few well-chosen accessories are all you need to elevate your look.
Why Choose Casual Wedding Attire For Groom
So why are more and more grooms ditching traditional wedding wear in favour of more casual ensembles? For starters, it's just more practical. Indian weddings are long, elaborate affairs, often spanning multiple days and events. And if you're going to be on your feet greeting guests, posing for photos, and partying till the wee hours, you might as well be comfortable doing it!
Plus, opting for casual groom's attire allows you to showcase your personal style and stand out from the sea of cookie-cutter dulhas. It's a chance to break away from convention and start your own tradition. And let's be real - a confident groom who's comfortable in his own skin is way more attractive than one who's fidgeting in a stiff sherwani!
Factors To Consider When Choosing Casual Groom's Attire
Season and Weather
One of the first things to consider when picking your casual groom's attire is the season and weather. If you're getting hitched in the sweltering summer, opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or blended viscose. Stick to lighter colours and prints to beat the heat in style. For a winter wedding, you can go for slightly heavier fabrics like silk, wool, or velvet in rich, darker hues. Layer up with a jacket or coat for added warmth and panache.
Wedding Theme and Venue
Your casual wedding attire should also complement the overall theme and venue of your big day. A beach wedding calls for breezy linens and open-collar shirts, while a garden party vibe is perfect for floral prints and pastel hues. If you're tying the knot in a grand palace or heritage property, opt for more regal silhouettes and rich fabrics to match the royal setting. The key is to choose an outfit that effortlessly blends into the backdrop.
Personal Style and Comfort
At the end of the day, the most important factor is your personal style and comfort. Choose silhouettes, colours, and fabrics that make you feel like the best version of yourself. If you're more of a kurta pyjama kinda guy, stick to that. If you love experimenting with fusion wear, go for an Indo-western look. And always, always prioritise comfort - you don't want to be tugging at your collar or adjusting your pants all day long!
Stylish Alternatives For A Laid-Back Wedding
Casual Suit Options
Who says suits are only for stuffy corporate events? A well-tailored suit in a relaxed fabric and cut can be a dapper choice for a casual groom. Opt for a linen or cotton blend suit in a light neutral shade like beige, grey, or pale blue. Keep the silhouette slim and the details minimal - think notch lapels, a two-button closure, and patch pockets. Skip the tie and leave your shirt collar unbuttoned for an effortlessly cool look. Complete the outfit with loafers or monk-strap shoes and you're good to go!
Casual Men's Wedding Attire Without a Suit
Not a suit guy? No problem! There are plenty of other stylish options for casual men's wedding attire. A classic kurta pajama set is always a winning choice - opt for a simple cotton kurta in a solid hue and pair it with contrasting pyjamas for a fresh spin. You can also go for a short kurta with slim-fit trousers or denim for a more contemporary vibe.
Another trendy option is a bandi jacket worn over a kurta or shirt - it adds just the right amount of structure and polish to your look. And if you really want to make a statement, consider a quirky printed jacket or an asymmetrical kurta - just keep the rest of your outfit understated to balance it out.
Accessorising Your Casual Groom's Attire
Accessories elevate casual wedding attire for grooms, adding sophistication and flair. Pair a classic watch, leather loafers, or a sleek pocket square with pastel kurtas or tailored blazers for a polished look.
Shoes and Socks
The right footwear can make or break your entire look, so choose wisely! For a casual groom, comfort should be a top priority. Ditch the pointy dress shoes and opt for something more relaxed like loafers, brogues, or even sneakers. Stick to neutral colours like brown, beige, or white to keep things understated. And don't forget to invest in a good pair of socks - go for a fun print or pop of colour to add some personality to your outfit.
Ties and Pocket Squares
If you do decide to wear a suit or blazer, you can skip the tie for a more laid-back look. But if you want to add a touch of formality, opt for a knit tie or a skinny necktie in a neutral hue. A pocket square is another great way to elevate your look - choose one in a complementary colour or print and stuff it casually into your jacket pocket.
Hats and Sunglasses
For a daytime outdoor wedding, a hat and sunglasses can be stylish and practical accessories. A fedora or Panama hat adds a touch of old-school charm, while a trendy baseball cap keeps things casual and cool. Just make sure to take them off for the ceremony and photos! As for sunglasses, stick to classic styles like aviators or wayfarers in timeless tortoiseshell or black.
Casual Groom Looks: Anything But Boring
So there you have it - a crash course in casual groom's attire! Remember, the key to nailing a laid-back look is to prioritise comfort, embrace your personal style, and have fun with it. Don't be afraid to experiment with different silhouettes, fabrics, and accessories until you find a look that feels authentically you.
And if you need some more inspiration, check out Manyavar's Casual Collection - it's got everything from kurtas to Indo-western separates in fresh, trendy designs. With Manyavar in your corner, you're sure to be the best-dressed (and most chilled-out) groom ever!