Bridal outfits in India are all about regal gold-laced fabrics and intricate statement jewellery that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the diverse regions. One such beautiful geographical area is Southern India, which includes 5 states and is covered in lush green mountain ranges and coasts with majestic blue water. The best South Indian bridal looks are an exquisite blend of traditional, elegant, and elements that reflect the vibrant culture. South Indian bridal looks feature timeless elements that make the bride look ethereal along with elements that have been part of South India’s rich cultural heritage.
From rich gold zari work to stunning gold-hued silk sarees, the quintessential South Indian bridal look is all about opulence and grace. The bride is also adorned with elaborate jewellery, layered necklaces, heavy earrings, bangles, and nethichutti (a traditional maang tikka). South Indian bridal hairstyles also feature flowers like jasmine and roses being braided into the hair.
Fun fact: South India historically traded black pepper for gold. This created an abundance of the precious metal and led to gold being used for ornaments, and much more. The passion for gold in the region is reflected in South Indian bridal looks as women wear gold weighing 300 grams and as high as 5 kgs in some cases. The traditional gold temple jewellery is handcrafted, taking inspiration from the grand sculptures of deities, and is worn by most brides on their wedding day.
Bridal outfits in Southern India also feature the Kanjivaram saree (also Kanjeevaram or Kanchipuram), which is made with a thick woven silk fabric with gold or silver motifs. The sarees were traditionally made in the Kanchipuram village of Tamil Nadu, which has also received a Geographical Identification tag for the exquisite fabrics. Today, brides are embracing their culture with a modern twist on traditional outfits, creating stunning looks for their wedding day. These looks not only reflect the rich cultural heritage of Southern India but also showcase the evolution of bridal styles and the latest trends. This article will help you choose from the 10 best outfits spotted on celebrities that reflect the best of traditional fabrics and silhouettes as well as some looks with fusion elements to turn heads.
The traditional white saree with a heavy red border symbolises purity and auspiciousness in Indian culture. Many brides choose to wear this combination for their wedding day because of its significance. Mouni Roy wore the stunning saree for her wedding day with gorgeous gold temple jewellery that showcases the best of the groom’s Malayali cultural roots. The ensemble includes a heavy matha patti, jhumkas, a choker and long necklace, kada bangles, as well as a kamarbandh.
To recreate this look, we recommend the Vastranand Ethnic Motif Zari Border Designer Silk Blend Saree that is made of soft silk and features zari embroidery work. To complete the look, wear it with the top-rated gold-plated Kemp Stone Studded Kamarbandh from Saraf RS Jewellery and the Zaveri Pearls Sacred Goddess Temple Necklace Set. You can tone down this look by wearing lighter jewellery in the same design – whether it is for an intimate ceremony or you want to customise it for your personal style.
Style Files Recommends: The colour red is associated with passion and love and is considered auspicious in many communities across India. Similarly, gold symbolises wealth and prosperity, making red Kanjivaram sarees with gold details the best choice for South Indian brides. Pooja Hegde wears the traditional saree with contemporary matching gold kamarbandh, earrings, necklace, maang tikka, and bangles with green and clear kundan stones.
You can get the royal look with the Akhilam Red Traditional Weaving Kanjivaram Silk Saree which is good quality, has a great design, and is high on comfort levels – even consumers agree with their high rating. If you want a contemporary look, consider the handloomed Begum Beliya Red And Gold Maheshwari Saree that is handmade by artisans. Speaking of handcrafted, the Adwitiya Gold Plated Kamarbandh is the perfect final touch for this outfit.
Style Files Recommends: The kasavu white and gold saree is the quintessential bridal outfit for women in Kerala. If you wish to wear it on your wedding day, take notes from Sai Pallavi. She exudes elegance in this graceful look which only proves that there is beauty in simplicity. The white saree is also ideal for hotter weather in the region and makes a great choice for destination weddings or beach venues as well. The jewellery is also light (by Indian wedding standards) and matches the effortless style of the saree.
The Teejh Kalyani Cotton Kasavu Saree is the perfect match for this look. The woven cotton saree is breathable and features a thick gold border. To complement the gold metallic details of this saree, pair it with the top-rated Antique Gold Plated Bangles from ToniQ. To add to the elegance and traditional appeal of this ensemble, wear the Dampati Coin Anklets from Shaya by CaratLane.
Style Files Recommends: Stand out during your pre-wedding events and functions in a bold colour that will turn heads while being appropriate for the occasion. Just like the bright royal purple Kanjivaram saree Shriya Pilgaonkar wore in the OTT show The Great Indian Bride (2023). The gold jewellery ties in well with the metallic details and striking trendy colour of the saree and blouse for a sophisticated look.
The Akhilam Silk Blend Purple Woven Designer Saree is a highly-rated option and is available in 4 more bold colours so you can pick your favourite. You really cannot go wrong with temple jewellery when it comes to South Indian looks for weddings and the Aatmana Temple Jewellery Set is the perfect option with contrasting red and green beads. Alternatively, you can opt for the Estele Gold Plated Bridal Necklace Set that has all-gold details, making it truly versatile.
Style Files Recommends: A tissue silk saree will be the ideal choice for the mangala snanam or haldi ceremonies as it is breathable and lightweight. The fabric has a shimmering appearance fit for a bridal look and the yellow shade further emphasises the gold hues in the embellished border. Jhanvi Kapoor’s simple styling with cute jhumkas and minimal dewy make-up is a testament to how you can keep the focus on your beautiful saree for small gatherings. Wear the Angoshobha Muga Linen Tissue Temple Border Saree, which is handwoven and crafted from high-quality fabrics. If you want a bit more colour, opt for the Beatitude Peach Handwoven Linen Saree which has similar gold details with just the right hint of colour. Bring the look together with the Azai by Nykaa Fashion Ethnic Green Temple Jhumkas that will complement all festive attire.
Style Files Recommends: The pastel pink trend of bridal lehenga has made its way into the world of Kanjivaram sarees and it’s perfect for the ‘blushing’ bride. The pastel shade adds poise to the Kanjivaram weave for a toned-down look which still looks regal – perfect for an engagement function. It is also a stunning outfit for a garden event surrounded by nature and blue skies as confirmed by Mrunal Thakur. Want to stun in this pink bridal look? We’ve found you the perfect match – the Beatitude Pink Kanjivaram Silk Blend Saree. The captivating saree has beautifully woven tassel details at the border to elevate your look. Pair it with a gold-toned temple necklace set with red accents for a bold look or pink accents for soft, elegant look.
Style Files Recommends: If you’re inspired by celeb-approved minimalist bridal outfits, this contemporary sleeveless scoop neck blouse should be on your wishlist. It compliments the traditional saree in pastel green and allows for an understated outfit for cocktail night. Taking a cue from Alia Bhatt, tie in elements of a classic look with dainty earrings and a bun adorned with mogra flowers.
To wear this look yourself, there are two gorgeous saree options you can choose from depending on your preferences. The Likha Green Linen Bhagalpuri Zari Saree matches the one seen on Alia Bhatt and has minimal gold details for a chic look. Meanwhile, Kalki Fashion’s Shaded Green and Turquoise saree has a more traditional look with detailed zari work. The white floral bun, white nail paint manicureand delicate rings also make the outfit look cohesive.
Style Files Recommends: The beauty of sarees lies in their versatility as they can be paired with different blouses and draping styles for completely fresh outfits. Rashmika Mandana wears a grey Kanjivaram saree with a contrast green blouse with balloon sleeves for a contemporary look that gives an ode to classic short-sleeved puffy saree blouses. The trendy sleeve style adds a romantic touch to the outfit, which will sway with your movements as you dance away.
The Akhilam Silk Blend Grey Woven Designer Saree is a stunning option for recreating this look. It is made using sustainable production techniques and customers love its quality. Style the saree just like Rashmika with the stunning statement earrings from Zaveri Pearls or Karatcart – both top-rated and excellent options for this look.
Style Files Recommends: Traditional South Indian bridal looks include several stunning looks. From traditional sarees and jewellery to contemporary garments in striking hues, you can find the right choice depending on your style. It is also important to consider your wedding venue and theme while picking your bridal ensemble. Whether you are on the hunt for the perfect Kanjivaram saree or looking for the temple jewellery of your dreams, we hope you found the inspiration you were looking for with this article. Happy Wedding Shopping!
How to create a South Indian bridal look? A traditional South Indian bridal look often includes vibrant-coloured Kanjeevaram sarees with the exception of the white and gold Kasavu sarees of Kerala.
Do South Indian brides wear a veil?
Yes! South Indian brides wear a veil that is pinned on the bun or back of the head. Many also take inspiration from Western styles and wear a long, flowing veil.
What colour do South Indian brides wear? South Indian brides traditionally wear red or white sarees with golden metallic accents.
Do South Indian brides wear a lehenga? While sarees are the go-to for wedding rituals, many South Indian brides prefer wearing a lehenga for the reception function.
Which colour is lucky for a bride? In Indian culture, red is considered to be the most auspicious colour for a bride as it symbolises love, passion, and fertility.
In This Story:
What Do South Indian Brides Wear?
1. Classic White & Red for the Wedding Day
2. Red Kanjivaram for the Main Event
3. Pure White and Gold for Muharattam
4. Striking Purple for Pre-Wedding
5. Breathable Tissue Silk for Haldi
6. Blush Pink Pastels for Engagement
7. Traditional Saree with Minimal Styling for Cocktail Night
8. Modern Blouse Style for Sangeet
Parting Thoughts
FAQs On South Indian Bridal Looks
8 Gorgeous South Indian Bridal Looks
Vastranand
Ethnic Motif Zari Border Designer Silk Blend Saree
Zaveri Pearls
Sacred Goddess Temple Necklace Set
Saraf RS Jewellery
Gold Plated Kamarbandh
Beatitude
Orange Gold-Toned Zari Silk Blend Kanjivaram Saree with Unstitched Blouse
Akhilam
Red Traditional Weaving Kanjivaram Silk Designer Saree with Unstitched Blouse
BEGUM BELIYA
Regal Red & Gold Maheshwari Saree with Unstitched Blouse
Adwitiya
Gold Plated Stone Studded Handcrafted Kamarbandh
Teejh
Kalyani White and Gold Kerala Cotton Kasavu Saree with Unstitched Blouse
KALKI FASHION
Elegant Gold Tissue Silk Saree with Unstitched Blouse
ToniQ
Antique Gold Plated Metal Classic Bangles For Women
Shaya by CaratLane
Dampati Coin Anklets In Dual Plated 925 Silver
Akhilam
Silk Blend Purple Woven Saree
Akhilam
Women’s Silk Blend Purple Woven Designer Saree
Jazz and Sizzle
Gold Plated Lakshmi Temple Jewellery Set
Estele
Gold Plated CZ Spiritual Lakshmi Devi Designer Bridal Necklace Set
Angoshobha
Muga Linen Tissue Jamdani Temple Border Saree with Unstitched Blouse
Via East
Gold Wrinkled Crepe Saree With Unstitched Blouse
Beatitude
Peach Handwoven Linen Saree with Unstitched Blouse
Azai by Nykaa Fashion
Ethnic Green Temple Jhumkas
Beatitude
Pink Kanjivaram Silk Blend Saree with Unstitched Blouse
Triyah
Koyal Pink & Gold Soft Silk Saree With Unstitched Blouse Fabric
OOMPH
Antique Gold Tone Necklace Set with Jhumka
Jazz and Sizzle
Pink Pearls Beads Kundan Stones Gold Plated Choker Set with Maang Tikka
Likha
Green Linen Woven Bhagalpuri Festive Zari Saree
KALKI FASHION
Shaded Green and Turquoise Saree
Priyaasi
White Rose Gold Plated Bun Hair Accessories
Akhilam
Womens Silk Blend Grey Woven Designer Saree with Unstitched Blouse
Vastranand
Floral Zari Woven Design Kanjivaram Saree
Zaveri Pearls
Green Cluster Beads & Dazzling Kundan Statement Jhumka
Karatcart
Gold-Plated Jhumka Earrings