Wedding Attire Guide

Traditional Chinese wedding attire includes the qun kwa (traditional Chinese wedding dress) and the cheongsam/qipao (a more modern fitted dress).

Traditional Elements:

• Qun Kwa: A red two-piece outfit with intricate gold embroidery featuring dragons and phoenixes
• Cheongsam/Qipao: A fitted dress with a high collar and side slits, often in red
• Colors: Red is traditional as it symbolizes good luck, joy, and prosperity

For the Groom:

• Tang Suit: A traditional jacket with mandarin collar and frog buttons
• Dragon and Phoenix Robe: A traditional embroidered robe for formal ceremonies

Malay wedding attire is known for its vibrant colors and intricate details, reflecting the rich cultural heritage.

For the Bride:

• Baju Kurung: A loose-fitting full-length dress with a long-sleeved top and a long skirt
• Kebaya: A fitted blouse paired with a batik sarong
• Colors: Traditionally white for solemnization, with vibrant colors like purple, green, or blue for the reception

For the Groom:

• Baju Melayu: A loose tunic with standing collar worn with trousers
• Songkok: A black cap worn as headgear
• Sampin: A short sarong worn over trousers

Indian wedding attire is known for its rich fabrics, intricate embroidery, and vibrant colors.

For the Bride:

• Saree: A long piece of fabric draped around the body, often in red or gold
• Lehenga: A long, embroidered and pleated skirt worn with a matching blouse and dupatta (scarf)
• Jewelry: Elaborate gold jewelry including necklaces, bangles, earrings, and head ornaments

For the Groom:

• Sherwani: A long coat-like garment with detailed embroidery
• Kurta Pajama: A traditional long shirt with fitted trousers
• Turban/Pagri: Traditional headwear for Sikh grooms

Many Singaporean couples opt for Western-style wedding attire, either exclusively or in addition to traditional outfits.

For the Bride:

• Wedding Gown: White or ivory dress in various styles (ball gown, A-line, mermaid, etc.)
• Veil: Various lengths from shoulder to cathedral length
• Accessories: Tiara, jewelry, and shoes to complement the dress

For the Groom:

• Suit or Tuxedo: Typically in black, navy, or gray
• Accessories: Tie or bow tie, pocket square, boutonniere
• Shoes: Formal dress shoes in black or brown

Singapore's tropical climate means hot and humid weather year-round, which should influence your attire choices.

• Choose breathable, lightweight fabrics like chiffon, organza, or light silk
• Consider sleeveless or short-sleeved options for comfort
• For outdoor ceremonies, avoid heavy fabrics and long trains
• Grooms should consider lightweight suits or options without vests for outdoor or daytime ceremonies
• Have a touch-up kit ready for makeup due to humidity

Your venue should influence your attire choices:

• Beach wedding: Lighter fabrics, shorter trains, and potentially barefoot or sandals
• Hotel ballroom: More formal attire is appropriate, including longer trains and veils
• Religious venue: Consider modesty requirements (covered shoulders, longer dresses)
• Outdoor garden: Consider heel protectors for grass and lighter fabrics for comfort
• HDB void deck: Practical attire that allows for movement in a community setting

Many Singaporean weddings involve multiple outfit changes throughout the day, reflecting different cultural traditions and parts of the celebration.

Common outfit progression:

1. Solemnization: Traditional cultural attire or simpler white dress/formal suit
2. Tea ceremony: Traditional cultural attire (qun kwa, baju kurung, etc.)
3. Reception entrance: Western white gown and formal suit
4. Second march-in: Evening gown in a color of choice
5. After-party: More comfortable attire for dancing and celebrating