Bridesmaid Haldi Outfit: Yellow (and Pink) Looks That Can Handle Turmeric

The haldi is the brightest, messiest and often the most fun function of the wedding. Bridesmaids are right in the middle of it, applying turmeric to the bride and usually getting plenty on themselves too. So the outfit should look sunny in photographs and be something you won't worry about.

Why yellow

Yellow is the traditional haldi colour: it matches the turmeric and looks warm and joyful in daylight. A group of bridesmaids in yellow, in different shades from lemon to mustard, is one of the happiest photographs of the wedding.

Alternatives to yellow

• Pink: a popular choice when the bride is in yellow and wants to stand out.

• White or ivory: turmeric shows beautifully on it, which is the point for some families.

• Orange, marigold and green mixed with yellow, for a floral look.

Styles that work for a haldi

Simple lehenga

A light lehenga in cotton, mul or georgette, with thread or gota work rather than heavy embellishment.

Sharara or kurta set

Easy to sit in on the floor. See bridesmaid sharara sets.

Anarkali

A floral or yellow anarkali is a pretty, simple choice. See bridesmaid anarkali suits.

Indo-Western or co-ord set

Modern and comfortable. See bridesmaid Indo-Western dresses.

Practical tips

• Choose washable fabrics and avoid delicate embellishment you'd be sad to stain.

• Short or three-quarter sleeves stay cleaner.

• Skip the heavy dupatta. A light one, or none.

• Florals are lovely for the haldi: floral jewellery, prints or embroidery.

The bride's haldi outfit

Plan the bridesmaids around what the bride is wearing. If she's in yellow, a slightly different shade, or pink, keeps her the focus. Our guide to the bride's customised haldi outfit has ideas for her.

Getting haldi outfits made

Browse the haldi collection, or start a bridesmaid and family order about four weeks before the haldi. Each person sends her own measurements through her own link, there's no minimum group size, and payment is made in full in advance.