For years, men’s fashion for Indian traditional wear has taken a backseat when compared to its women counterparts. Lehengas have taken precedence over sherwanis, bridal shopping has taken more time and given more importance than shopping for the groom-to-be. But in recent times, the trends have changed and so has the mindset. Men want to focus as much attention, if not more, on their festive fashion choices.
A part of this is the cocktail attire, that is less traditional and more modern. Case in point – no sherwanis here, men are looking for a blend of conventional and contemporary elements. Designed to be elegant and sophisticated while maintaining the cultural essence of Indian fashion, Indian cocktail attire is typically worn to semi-formal and formal events like cocktail parties, engagement parties, receptions, and other upscale gatherings. It strikes a balance between the opulence of traditional Indian clothing and the chic, contemporary style of cocktail wear.
Decoding Cocktail Dress Codes for Men
As we break-down the dress code for men for an Indian cocktail attire, there are many variations to the traditional ensemble. The most dapper and popular one is the Bandhgala Suit. A well-fitted bandhgala suit adds a touch of sophistication. A fusion of Indian and western aesthetics, it is also known as a Jodhpuri suit or a Prince coat. This one’s a traditional Indian men’s formal outfit that has gained popularity for its regal and stylish appearance and is suitable for a range of occasions from weddings to formal events. We’d say, opt for darker shades and pair them with contrasting trousers. Complete the look with leather dress shoes or stylish traditional jutties. One can accessorise with a pocket square, cufflinks, and a stylish watch can add a touch of sophistication.
Types of Cocktail Attire for Men
In addition to the Bandhgala Suit, other cocktail attire in Indian fashion would be a Nehru jacket ensemble, Sherwani jacket style and Indo-Western fusion wear. These would be perfect for Indian wedding cocktail parties. Even though the cocktail dress code for Indian weddings is considered the Bandhgala by most men, it really depends on the formality of the event and your personal style. The key is to create a balanced look that seamlessly combines Indian aesthetics with modern trends, resulting in a sophisticated and confident appearance.
When combining elements of Indian and Western attire for a contemporary look, one can pair a stylish kurta with well-fitted trousers or chinos. Add a modern Nehru jacket or a waistcoat for a polished appearance. Experimenting with contemporary kurta designs can also be a great option. Think asymmetric cuts, unique collars, or modern prints and pair them with fitted trousers and stylish footwear.
Timeless Nehru Jackets and Jodhpuri Suits
Nehru Jackets and Jodhpuri Suits are iconic pieces of Indian menswear that have stood the test of time due to their timeless appeal and cultural significance. The iconic Nehru jacket was named after India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, and draws inspiration from the traditional Indian achkan. Nehru popularised this style in the mid-20th century. Its typical features are a high Mandarin collar that stands upright, sleeveless or short-sleeved design and buttoned-up front with a straight cut. This versatile option can be worn for both formal and semi-formal occasions and at weddings, festivals, and other cultural events.
Jodhpuri Suits hail from the princely state of Rajasthan, India and are named after the city of Jodhpur, known for its royal heritage. The ensemble typically includes a tailored jacket with a Nehru collar. The jacket can be single-breasted or double-breasted, often adorned with intricate embroidery or embellishments and matched or contrasted with trousers to complete the look. Jodhpuri Suits are a symbol of regality and elegance. They are a popular choice for weddings, receptions, and formal events. Both Nehru Jackets and Jodhpuri Suits hold a special place in Indian fashion for their ability to merge tradition with modernity. Their enduring charm lies in their versatility, making them appropriate for a range of events while embodying the cultural heritage of India.
Contemporary and Stylish Kurtas
Contemporary and stylish kurtas have evolved to cater to modern fashion sensibilities while retaining the essence of traditional Indian attire. These kurtas offer a blend of comfort, versatility, and trendy designs. The humble silhouette that was once a straight cut kurta and pyjama pants has now variations in style like asymmetric hemlines, unique collar designs, contrasting details and contemporary prints.
Kurtas with asymmetric or high-low hemlines add a modern twist to the traditional silhouette.
These hemlines create visual interest and movement. To further add to the design, modern kurtas often feature innovative collar designs, such as stand collars, band collars, or Mandarin collars. One can think of contrasting fabrics, colors, and trims to create eye-catching details. This can be seen in cuffs, plackets, and collars.
What makes a kurta more contemporary is featuring a variety of prints, from geometric patterns to abstract designs. Digital prints and screen prints add a contemporary touch. Embroidery is used sparingly for a minimalist yet elegant look and can be seen on collars, plackets, or cuffs can elevate the design. The key to any outfit is the fit. With time, as this silhouette has evolved, kurtas have become slim and tailored giving a more structured look to emphasize the body's lines. Apart from traditional fabrics, modern kurtas experiment with fabrics like linen blends, chambray, and modal. To embrace the maximalist in you, go for high-contrast color blocking to create a bold and fashionable look. This technique can be applied to sleeves, plackets, or collars.
Dressing for Specific Occasions
Indian men's fashion offers a rich variety of attire for specific occasions, each with its unique style and significance. Weddings usually call for sherwanis, Bandhgala suits, and Jodhpuri Suit while functions like Sangeet or Mehendi require one to wear kurta pyjama, or Nehru Jacket combinations. The colour palette, fabric and embellishments depend on the nature of the occasion.
Indian cocktail parties usually have the dress code of a Bandhgala suit or a smart Nehru Jacket with trousers. Indian festive attire for men is festive kurta pyjama – think embellishments, vibrant colours and unique cuts that make the simple silhouette festive. Religious ceremonies also require traditional kurta pyjama as uniform. Remember that fabric, color, and styling details play a significant role in creating the right look for each occasion. Tailoring and fit are crucial to ensuring you look your best. Additionally, cultural norms and regional variations might influence attire choices, so it's essential to consider the specific context of the event.