How should I pack a sherwani for a wedding?

Short answer

Pack your sherwani in a suit bag, folded once along the shoulders, with tissue paper inside the sleeves and body. Hang it on arrival and steam it gently. Avoid crushing the embroidery by keeping it separate from other clothes.

Start with a good quality suit bag, one that lets the sherwani hang fully. Fold it once, lengthways, along the natural shoulder line, and pad the inside with acid-free tissue paper, especially around the collar, buttons and any heavy embroidery. Roll the sleeves with tissue inside them so they keep their shape. Lay it flat in your suitcase, on top of softer items, and never stack heavy shoes or toiletries on top.

When you arrive, hang the sherwani in the bathroom while you run a hot shower. The steam will relax creases. If you have a handheld steamer, use it on a low setting, keeping the nozzle a few inches away from any beading or zardozi work. Do not iron directly over embroidery, as heat can flatten or melt metallic threads. If the sherwani is heavily embellished, consider carrying it in a hard-shell case or asking the venue if they have a pressing room. Always pack it a few days early so you have time to fix any issues before the ceremony.