Overview: Love South Asian glam but want to keep it elegant? Our UK style guide helps you shine at weddings and events – without going over the top. Read on!
Dressing glam in South Asian fashion is a celebration in itself. The fabrics shimmer, the silhouettes flatter, and the craftsmanship tells a story of centuries-old artistry. But when you're living in the UK – whether attending weddings, formal dinners, or cultural festivals, it’s easy to wonder: How do I channel all that glamour without going overboard?
The good news is, South Asian fashion doesn't have to mean head-to-toe embellishment and bridal-level bling, unless you want it to. Glamour can be redefined. It can be modern, chic, and utterly stylish without looking too heavy or theatrical.
Here’s your style guide to wearing South Asian glam in the UK with elegance, confidence, and just the right dose of sparkle.
1. Focus on One Statement Piece
South Asian fashion is known for its rich textiles and intricate designs. But wearing too many statement pieces at once – think heavily embroidered lehengaand layered jewelleryand bold makeup can feel overwhelming, especially at non-bridal or semi-formal events.
Tip: Choose one focal element.
It could be a beaded dupatta, a mirrorwork blouse, or a velvet saree. Let that item shine, and keep the rest of the look more subdued. This draws attention in all the right ways and helps your outfit feel balanced.
2. Use Neutral or Monochrome Bases to Modernise the Look
Vibrant colours are beautiful but pairing too many bright shades can make the outfit feel too busy, especially in UK settings where more muted tones tend to feel more contemporary.
Instead, opt for neutrals, pastels, or monochrome foundations, then add drama through details like embroidery or metallic accents. An ivory anarkali with gold threadwork or a charcoal saree with sequin edging feels sophisticated and glam, not shouty.
3. Mix Traditional with Contemporary
This one is very important and one of the easiest ways to avoid looking overdone is to modernise your styling. Mixing traditional South Asian garments with western tailoring or minimalist accessories can tone things down while still honouring the essence of the outfit.
For example:
· Pair a silk kurta with wide-leg trousers or cigarette pants instead of a heavily embroidered shalwar.
· Throw a blazer over a sari blouse for a fusion twist at a reception.
· Replace chunky bangles with a sleek metallic cuff or statement ring.
All this got your head spinning? Take a quick look at SaiqaMajeed’s Formal Collection and decide for youself!
The contrast creates visual interest without overwhelming the eye and it’s especially chic in cosmopolitan UK cities like London, Birmingham, or Manchester.
4. Know the Dress Code& Adjust Accordingly
Not every event calls for head-to-toe glam. If you're attending a registry wedding, a dinner party, or a more laid-back gathering, you don’t need full bridalwear to make an impact. In fact, wearing overly ornate outfits to smaller events can feel out of place.
Instead:
· Opt for a lightweight sari with a sleeveless blouse.
· Choose a printed or embellished kurta set in crepe or georgette.
· Wear a simple gharara with a chiffon dupatta and dainty earrings.
You’ll still stand out for the right reasons.
5. Keep Hair and Makeup Understated (or Pick Just One to Emphasise)
Your outfit might already have shine, texture, and movement. So piling on intense contouring, a bold lip, heavy lashes and an updo might take you into costume territory.
A more wearable alternative:
· Go for dewy skin, soft kohl, and a muted lip with a heavily embroidered outfit.
· Or if your outfit is minimal, let your makeup do the talking, perhaps with a bold red lip or defined eyes.
· Keep your hair natural and polished – think loose curls, sleek buns, or a low ponytail.
This approach feels fresh, elegant, and more aligned with UK-style sensibilities.
6. Let Your Jewellery Tell the Story – But Don’t Let It Shout
South Asian jewellery is powerful. A single jhumka or maang tikka can define the whole outfit. But layering everything at once – necklace, earrings, tikka, choker, hathphoolcan feel bridal.
Pick two pieces max for non-bridal looks. For example:
· Big earrings and a cocktail ring.
· A delicate choker and studs.
· A single mathapatti with no other jewellery.
This creates a sense of considered style – you're not trying to look like a bride; you're dressing with intention.
Also Read >>What Should Women Wear to a South Asian Wedding?
7. Tailoring Matters – Always
One of the most underrated aspects of dressing glam without overdoing it is fit. An outfit that fits you beautifully will always look more expensive, more polished, and more stylish – no matter how simple the design is.
If your lehenga waistband is too tight or your kameez sleeves are too long, it throws off your whole silhouette. Get everything tailored properly – even if it’s a ready-made outfit or something off the rack.
That said, it’s very important to pay attention to the minute details you miss while choosing the outfit for your big day. A fine formal dress from a well-reputed designer is all that you need to elevate your entire look!
In the UK, where fashion tends to celebrate clean lines and fit over embellishment, this small detail can elevate your entire look.
8. Consider the Season and Setting
In the UK, a winter wedding calls for different styling than a summer garden party. While layering might be essential in January, a heavy velvet outfit in July can quickly become uncomfortable and appear excessive.
Opt for SaiqaMajeed’s Velvet Collection for cooler months in rich tones and heavier fabrics. In spring and summer, switch to pastels, breezy silhouettes, and sheer textures. The Casual collection by SaiqaMajeed will do wonders – plus, matching your look to the environment helps you look stylish and comfortable.
Confidence Is the Final Touch
You can follow every rule in the book but the most important element of any South Asian glam look is confidence. If you feel great, it shows. If you're constantly adjusting your dupatta or second-guessing your jewellery, it will reflect in your body language.
Choose outfits that feel like you. Whether you lean classic, contemporary, or experimental, your style should reflect your personality – not just the latest trend or tradition.
Glamour is never about doing the most. It’s about doing what’s right for youwith grace, balance, and joy.
Final Word
Dressing glam in South Asian fashion while living in the UK is so much fun and we love every bit about style, culture, and intention. Whether you're attending a family wedding, Eid celebration, or a festive gala, you can express your heritage and elegance without overdoing it.
Think balance. Think impact. And most of all, think you!