Indian (Hindu) engagement

Modest brightly coloured dress not red and on terms of gifts I'm clueless ask the bride as it's usually food sweets jewellery I've seen gifted in my experience

You’re not far from Green Street in East Ham, go to any Indian clothes shop along there and pick an outfit. A nice lehenga or sari. Golds, pinks and yellows are popular colours, anything but red or white. Don’t forget to pick up some colourful bangles too! As for gift, ask the bride as they may have a registry. Sometimes it’s just easier to put cash in an envelope. No to food or sweets and also jewellery as gifts, unless you’re willing to spend £££ on Indian gold.

I would suggest to pick something easy to put on, Saris aren't the easiest to drape. In terms of gift, you can just give cash (whatever amount is affordable)!

I would recommend wearing one the Indian suits, if you’d like to have some ethnic wear and be involved in that respect and I would recommend giving some money as a gift as it can be used by her in the most suited way for them

Where would this function be and at what time? You can choose your outfit based on that. I would prefer you wear simple Kurtis or dress as engagement are simple occasions and you don't want to take the limelight away from the couple. As for gifts, generally bouquets are a good choice and sweets.. money/gifts like jewellery, dinner set or photo frames etc for their newly married home are good options.. but these are generally given for the wedding. And like someone mentioned ask if a registry is there so you can contribute or buy accordingly.

Are you planning on gifting these flowers ? They look nice . You can wear a dress as long as it is is maxi and has sleeves. Maybe ask your friend if you can wear south Asian clothing , keep in mind that it is expensive but that’s because it is often stitched and embroidered by hand by many people for one piece.