Fashion

[ROMARY]

For minimum stress (for me), I'd wear the same dress.  However, I'd do more research and re-ask my future DIL for more specific information.  Also, maybe ask a few other women who will be attending both ceremonies.  I'd want to 'blend in', photo-wise.  .......... p.s.  I don't know why some words are underlined in red.  Oh, never mind, the red underlining disappeared, lol.

[SaggingGal]

I would wear two different outfits. Yes, it is costly but these are two distinctly different ceremonies. Wearing a specific outfit to each shows respect for the different ceremonies. There are research databases and reference books at the public library that explain the proper protocol, etiquette, and dress for ceremonies and customs around the world. As a wise old librarian I say call the Reference Librarian at your local public library to find the answer for you. The appropriate dress at the Indian ceremony will exhibit your acceptance of this culture to those in attendance. Have a wonderful, memorable day.

[IndianPink]

Congratulations on your son's upcoming wedding! I am Indian and here is my two cents:

I think your future dil's family would be honored and flattered if you decide to wear a sari or a salwar kameez ( long top with loose trousers) - you need not worry about offending them. They will be happy to help you find Indian clothes and accessories if you decide to go that route.

IMO the blue dress is a little casual - Indian women wear bright, colorful,  sequined clothes, usually in silk. But above all, wear what you are comfortable and enjoy yourself.

Don't hesitate to ask questions - we love to talk about our traditions!

[momoftwo2007]

Lovely choice!!

[Texasmouse]

Well, this didn't work. Too "shapeless" and blah on me. Back to the drawing board. 

[Stray]

@Texasmouse- I have gone to a number of Indian weddings.  If the ceremonies are in the same day, wear the same dress.  I went to the weddings on the same day.  Hindu ceremony in the am and Catholic ceremony in the pm.  Also, the same for my God child from Thailand....Budhist in the am and non denominational/military in the pm...maybe change the accessories or add a colorful scarf as suggested.  The focus is on the happy couple and it's stressful enough; they will be happy that you are there to share in their joy....don't make it hard on yourself.   But, if you feel you must change, go with the suggestion of a colorful sari if you have a place nearby that can help you. 

[lolakimono]

@Texasmouse

There are a few dresses that I think would work, but they're probably more than you would want to spend for a second dress.

(also in red)

[Texasmouse]

@lolakimono

You're so sweet! Thank you for taking the time to find those dresses! I actually went out this afternoon and checked out a few places and ended up buying a dress at TJ Maxx that I'm happy with. It's similar in style and colors to the one I returned but is much more fitted and more flattering. I think one of the problems with the one I didn't keep is that it was a bit big on me. Thanks again for your suggestions! 

[CatsyCline]

i would wear a jewel tone,  pretty silk, or cotton/rayon lightweight sari over a neutral color dress.  ask your future DIL and her mother about their colors.

https://www.theknot.com/content/hindu-wedding-guest-qa

[Trix]

Several years ago friends of mine had this dilemma.  Their son was marrying a woman of Indian heritage and her family wanted a traditional Indian ceremony.  My friends are Jewish, so the young couple opted to exchange vows twice.  The mother of the groom wore two outfits.  In their case the Jewish service was very informal.  Not many were invited to it and it was more of a civil ceremony than a formal religious affair with a family brunch afterward.  My friend wore a simple lavender silk sheath style to it.  For the formal Indian ceremony, with reception to follow she wore a watercolor (ombre may be a better description) silk formal.  It was lovely as it was a flowing effect of blue/turqouise/soft sea green (watercolors).  She certainly didn't look dull in the company of people decked out in colorful Indian garb as worn the bride and her family, but it wasn't costumey.