What to Wear to a Mehndi: Pakistani Mehndi Outfits in the UK

A mehndi is the most colourful, relaxed night of a Pakistani wedding: music, dhol, dancing and henna for the bride. Whether you are the bride, part of her family or a guest, this guide covers the colours, silhouettes and fabrics that work best, plus what to wear to a winter mehndi in the UK.

What is a mehndi?

The mehndi (also called the mayun or rasm-e-henna in some families) usually takes place a day or two before the nikkah or baraat. The bride has henna applied to her hands and feet, and the evening is full of songs, dances and games between the two families. Because there is a lot of movement, comfort matters as much as looks.

Mehndi colours

• Yellow, mustard and marigold: the traditional mehndi colours, especially for the bride and her close family.
• Green, from emerald to mint: often paired with yellow, and a classic for the bride's sisters and friends.
• Hot pink, orange and fuchsia: bright, festive and very popular with guests.
• Multicolour and phulkari-style embroidery: perfect when you want to be bold without matching anyone.

Some families set a colour theme for the mehndi, so check with the hosts before you buy. If there is no theme, bright and cheerful is always a safe choice.

The best silhouettes for a mehndi

• Sharara and gharara suits: flared trousers with a short or mid-length shirt are the mehndi favourite because they are easy to dance in. Browse sharara and gharara suits.
• Lehengas: a light, flared lehenga with a short blouse or long shirt looks beautiful in photos; keep the skirt manageable if you plan to dance. See our Pakistani lehengas.
• Long shirts with straight trousers: a simple, elegant option for guests who prefer less volume.

Not sure of the difference? Our lehenga, sharara, gharara and peshwas guide explains each one.

Fabrics for a UK mehndi

Organza, chiffon and net are light and move well, which is ideal for a summer mehndi or a warm indoor venue. For a winter mehndi in the UK, raw silk, jacquard silk and velvet keep you warmer, especially if you are travelling between venues or taking photos outside. Compare them in our guide to Pakistani formal fabrics, or browse velvet formals for colder months.

Bride, family or guest?

• The bride often wears the brightest outfit of the night, traditionally yellow or green, with fresh or artificial flower jewellery.
• Close family sometimes coordinate colours or wear matching outfits for the dances.
• Guests can wear any bright, festive colour. Heavily embellished bridal pieces are usually saved for the baraat or walima.

Accessories

Keep accessories light so you can dance: khussas or flat sandals, jhumkas or chandbalis, glass bangles and a parandi in your plait. A light dupatta is easier to manage than a heavy one.

Order in time

Every outfit at Raz Ruya is made to order and stitched to your size, in XS to XL or your own measurements. Delivery takes 10 to 15 business days in the UK and 15 to 20 business days to other countries, so order at least three to four weeks before the mehndi. Shop the latest designer pieces in new arrivals, or browse by designer on our Shop by Brands page.

Mehndi outfits: common questions

What colour should I wear to a mehndi?

Yellow, green, orange and pink are the traditional mehndi colours. Bright and multicolour outfits are always welcome unless the hosts have chosen a colour theme.

Is a sharara or a lehenga better for a mehndi?

A sharara or gharara is easier to dance in, which is why it is the most popular mehndi choice. A light lehenga also works well if you prefer more volume.

What should I wear to a winter mehndi in the UK?

Choose warmer fabrics such as raw silk, jacquard silk or velvet, and bring a shawl for travelling between venues and taking photos outside.

Can guests wear yellow to a mehndi?

Usually yes. Yellow is a traditional mehndi colour for everyone, but if the bride's family has asked guests to avoid it, follow the hosts' wishes.

How early should I order my mehndi outfit from Raz Ruya?

Order at least three to four weeks before the event. Every outfit is stitched to order, and delivery takes 10 to 15 business days in the UK and 15 to 20 business days to other countries.