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Still not sure what to wear to your friend's big day? Worry not, we've got your wedding checklist under control. Veteran designer Ritu Kumar shares her thoughts on how to dress up for every function of your friend's big fat Indian wedding.

MEHENDI MAGIC

While you bond and gossip with the girls over intricate mehendi adorning your hands, make sure you opt for an ensemble that doesn't require any extra handling or care in the process. Ditch the salwar kameez, let that delicate sari hang in your closet and kiss your sweet lehenga goodbye for the day - instead opt for drapes that can be pinned well in place, or a smart bandhgala suit in bright colours that won't require a dupatta at all. "Anarkalis are great options too," states Kumar. "Choose pastel colours with light embroidery keeping the mood fun and light." Match pretty silver jewellery with it, or simple jadau earrings to go.

HOT TIP: If you must wear an ensemble with drapes, opt for slightly heavier ones that can be pleated and safely pinned away.

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SANGEET SIREN

Join the wedding extravaganza in a sexy and sophisticated, yet understated style. The sangeet is one function where you can flaunt those curves and show some skin, so opt for a chic cocktail sari in chiffon or georgette with sequin embroidery and a blingy border. You can also consider a sexy black blouse with a jewel toned lehenga to for an elegant appeal. States Ritu, "Go for an a-line kurta with a fitted embroidered bodice and churidar or even pants for an Indo- western look." When picking out jewellery, go for one statement piece that completes the look without making you resemble a Christmas tree.

HOT TIP : Opt for a pre-stitched sari that is not only easy to drape, but also to move around in while you party the night away.

WEDDING WONDER

Bring out your favourite lehenga or sari in all their splendour, for this is the big day when you can parade the glitter and gold on your dress. Without overpowering the bride's ensemble (an unspoken oath every bridesmaid takes), pick an ensemble in pink, red and orange hues with elaborate embroidered details. As states the designer, "Lehengas are always in fashion and these days lighter options are available with minimal embroidery." Add chunky ornaments with your look, like big earrings, a choker necklace, bangles or hair combs.

HOT TIP: Mix and match the blouse and lehenga of different sets to re-invent your wardrobe. Make sure the combination sticks to a matching colour palette, though.

RECEPTION RAVISH

On the last day of the wedding madness, bring out your feminine side with a pretty sari in rich tones. "Go for chanderi or georgette, and choose a stronger colour, accentuated with light jewellery," advises Ritu. If you're opting for a heavy material like brocade, balance it with a plain coloured blouse. Stick to a few attention-grabbing jewellery pieces for best results.

HOT TIP : Add youthful edge to your look by teaming your sari or lehenga with a fitted T-shirt or crop top.

See also: http://www.graziadressau.com/red-bridesmaid-dresses