Most weddings now run to five events. That does not have to mean five complete outfits.
Start with the wedding outfit and work outwards. If the lehenga is heavy and red, let the reception be the opposite: a darker colour, a lighter cloth, an easier shape. An anarkali or a sequin lehenga without can-can will feel like a holiday after four hours in zardozi.
Haldi is the one event where the clothes will be stained. Choose cotton silk or a block print you like but are not precious about, and rinse turmeric in cold water as soon as you can.
For mehendi, think about your arms. You will sit with wet henna for two hours, so short or elbow sleeves and a skirt that does not need holding are worth more than any embroidery.
Sangeet is the dancing night. Test the outfit by lifting both arms and turning quickly. If the blouse rides up or the dupatta needs a hand, change something.
What can repeat: a zari dupatta works over two different kurta sets, jhumkas can be worn twice with different hair, and a groom's kurta set for the haldi doubles for the day after.
