Anyone who has worn a saree to a winter wedding in Melbourne knows the struggle. Wearing Indian outfits in Melbourne weather takes a little planning, because we can get cold winter nights, hot summer days and four seasons in one afternoon. The good news is that you don’t have to choose between looking good and staying comfortable.
Here are the tips we share with customers at the shop all year round.
Staying warm in a saree in winter
A saree leaves your midriff and arms open, which is lovely in India and less lovely in a Melbourne July. A few simple layers fix most of the problem.
- Thermals underneath: a thin skin-coloured thermal top under the blouse and thermal leggings under the petticoat make a big difference and don’t show.
- Long-sleeved blouse: elbow-length or full sleeves keep your arms warm and look elegant.
- Shawl or pashmina: drape it over your shoulders, matching or contrasting with your saree.
- A long coat for outside: wear a smart coat for the walk to and from the venue, then take it off inside.
- Closed shoes or boots: nobody sees your feet under a floor-length saree.
Heavier drapes like crepe and silk also feel warmer than very sheer fabrics. Our ready-to-wear sarees are pre-stitched, which means fewer pleats to fuss with when you’re adding layers. Our guide on how to wear a ready-to-wear saree shows how quick they are to put on.
Wearing a lehenga in cold weather
Lehengas are actually easier to keep warm in than sarees. The skirt is full and floor-length, so you can wear thermal leggings or even track pants under it and no one will know.
- Choose a blouse with sleeves, or wear a fitted thermal under a sleeveless one.
- Use your dupatta as a wrap over both shoulders instead of pinning it to one side.
- A cropped jacket or embroidered shrug over the blouse works well for outdoor events.
- Velvet and heavier fabrics feel cosy for winter functions.
See our lehenga range for winter-friendly options.
Suits and kurtis: the easiest choice for winter
If you want minimum fuss, a suit is hard to beat in the cold. Full-length bottoms, longer sleeves and a dupatta you can wrap around you all help.
Pair a kurti with leggings or fitted pants and a long cardigan or coat for everyday wear. For festivals, choose a dressier suit with full sleeves. Browse our women’s suits and kurtis.
Light fabrics for a Melbourne summer
On a hot day, the right fabric matters more than anything. Look for light, breathable options and simple designs.
- Cotton: soft, breathable and great for kurtis and kids’ outfits.
- Chinon: light and flowing, with a gentle sheen, so it drapes well without feeling heavy.
- Organza: sheer and airy, and it photographs beautifully in daylight.
- Crepe: it falls nicely and doesn’t cling, which helps on warm days.
Lighter colours like pastels, mint, peach and powder blue also feel cooler in the sun. Keep embroidery and heavy work to a minimum for outdoor daytime events.
Indian outfits in Melbourne weather: four seasons in a day
Melbourne loves to change its mind. A sunny afternoon function can turn into a cold, windy night by the time dinner is served. Some easy ways to prepare:
- Always pack a shawl, even in summer.
- Keep a pair of flats in the car or your bag.
- Use safety pins to secure your dupatta or pallu on windy days.
- Carry an umbrella and avoid trailing hems on wet ground.
For kids, layer a cardigan or jacket over their outfit and dress them in comfortable cotton under heavier pieces. Our kids’ kurta pajama sets come in both silk and cotton.
We have outfits in lighter and heavier fabrics all year, and far more in store than on the website. WhatsApp us on 0450 649 304, tell us your event and the season, and we’ll send options. You can try them on in our Aintree trial room or have them delivered Australia-wide for $16.