Bridesmaid Outfit for Mehndi: Bright, Light and Easy to Sit In

The mehndi is the most relaxed function of the wedding, and the bridesmaids usually spend it on the floor beside the bride, getting their own henna done. That changes what works: you want something bright, light and easy to sit in for hours.

Colours for the mehndi

• Greens: mehndi green, mint, pistachio and sage are the traditional choice.

• Bright mixes: pink with orange, yellow with green, multicolour prints.

• Pastels, for a daytime mehndi in a garden. See pastel bridesmaid palettes.

A colourful "same style, different colours" group looks especially good at a mehndi. Read the three ways to match.

Silhouettes that work on the floor

Sharara or gharara

Sits easily and looks graceful when you stand. See bridesmaid sharara sets.

Light lehenga

A lehenga with a soft flare in georgette, organza or cotton silk, not a heavy can-can skirt.

Anarkali or kurta set

Comfortable for a long afternoon. See bridesmaid anarkali suits.

Co-ord or Indo-Western set

Modern and very easy to move in. See bridesmaid Indo-Western dresses.

Practical details

• Sleeves: short or three-quarter sleeves keep fabric away from wet henna on your hands and arms.

• Dupatta: a light one, pinned, or none at all while the henna dries.

• Embroidery: gota, mirror and thread work suit the mehndi and are lighter than heavy zari.

• Fabric: breathable, especially for a daytime function.

Matching the bride

The bride's mehndi outfit is often the most colourful of her week. Pick bridesmaid colours that sit beside hers, and keep her the heaviest and brightest in the frame. See the bride's sangeet and mehndi outfits.

Getting mehndi outfits made

Browse the mehndi collection for ready pieces, or start a bridesmaid and family order about four weeks before the mehndi. Each person sends her own measurements, there's no minimum group size, and everything arrives for one date.