In India, weddings are grand celebrations, and for grooms, it’s just as important to look their best as it is for the bride. Men's bridal wear in India has evolved over time, blending traditional and contemporary styles to create a perfect ensemble for the groom. Whether it’s a traditional kurta, sherwani, or a more modern suit or blazer, Indian men’s bridal wear offers a wide range of options to cater to various tastes, occasions, and preferences.
This guide delves into the world of men’s bridal fashion in India, exploring its history, popular trends, and styling tips to help grooms look their best on their special day.
Traditional Men’s Bridal Wear: A Look into Indian Heritage
Indian weddings are steeped in rich cultural traditions, and the groom’s attire often draws inspiration from centuries-old customs. Let’s explore the traditional bridal wear for men, which includes timeless pieces that are synonymous with elegance, craftsmanship, and regality.
1. Sherwani: The Epitome of Elegance
· The sherwani is the quintessential bridal wear for men in India. Known for its royal appearance and intricate designs, the sherwani is traditionally worn by grooms at weddings and other formal occasions. The sherwani is typically tailored from silk, brocade, or velvet, and is often embroidered with zardosi work, crystal embellishments, and stones to create a luxurious look.
· Styles: The sherwani comes in various styles, from classic straight cut to angled, asymmetrical cuts. The style you choose will depend on your body type and personal preference. For a more royal look, consider a long sherwani with an antique gold finish or silver accents.
· Colors: Traditionally, sherwanis are seen in colors like ivory, cream, beige, and gold, symbolizing purity and prosperity. However, modern grooms often opt for bold colors like red, maroon, royal blue, or even pastel shades for a contemporary twist.
2. Kurta-Pajama: The Comfortable yet Traditional Choice
· The kurta-pajama is another classic bridal wear option for men. A simpler and more comfortable choice, the kurta is a long tunic that reaches the knees or slightly lower. It is paired with pajamas, churidar, or salwar for a traditional look.
· The kurta can be embellished with intricate embroidery or threadwork, creating a sophisticated yet understated appearance. This look is ideal for daytime weddings, engagement ceremonies, or religious rituals.
· Colors and Fabrics: Kurta-pajamas are available in various colors like white, gold, and light pastels. You can choose from fabrics like silk, cotton, or georgette for added comfort.
3. Dhoti and Angrakha: A Royal and Cultural Look
· For grooms who want to embrace a more traditional look, a dhoti paired with an angrakha is a regal choice. The dhoti is a traditional piece of clothing worn around the waist and secured by a knot, while the angrakha is a robe-like garment tied in a cross pattern.
· Embroidery and Details: Angrakhis are often heavily embroidered with golden threads or stonework, making this attire perfect for weddings. This style is perfect for heritage weddings or grooms wanting to make a statement with their attire.
Modern Men’s Bridal Wear: Combining Tradition with Contemporary Fashion
While traditional wear remains popular, many grooms today opt for modern variations of classic bridal wear. Contemporary styles blend Western influences with Indian craftsmanship, offering a versatile yet trendy option for modern weddings.
1. Indo-Western Suit: The Perfect Blend
· The Indo-western suit is a fusion garment that blends elements of Western formal wear with traditional Indian styles. This can include a Nehruk jacket or bandhgala paired with straight-cut trousers or churidar.
· Designs and Cuts: Indo-western suits often feature sleek, tailored fits with fine detailing, including embroidery or piping along the collar or cuffs. The designs can be contemporary while still maintaining the cultural richness of traditional wear.
· Colors: Popular colors for Indo-western suits include navy blue, black, ivory, maroon, and grey. Bold, modern colors often reflect the groom's personality and style.
2. Sherwani with a Twist: Contemporary Designs
· While the sherwani remains a classic, modern iterations have brought in innovative cuts and bold colors. Instead of the traditional, straight-cut designs, contemporary sherwanis come with asymmetric hems, mandarin collars, and statement buttons.
· Colors and Embellishments: New-age sherwanis are available in dark tones like black, burgundy, and emerald green, often featuring intricate embroidery in metallic tones like gold, silver, or pearl.
3. Tuxedo or Suit: For a Modern Groom
· Many men today opt for a tuxedo or suit for their wedding day, combining Western formal wear with subtle traditional touches. A black tuxedo with a black bowtie exudes sophistication, while a custom-made suit with Indian embellishments offers a modern twist.
· This look is especially popular for destination weddings or Western-style ceremonies in India, offering the groom a more minimalist, yet chic option.
How to Style Men’s Bridal Wear for the Big Day
When styling your bridal wear, it’s important to consider not just the outfit, but also the accessories, makeup, and overall aesthetic you wish to achieve. Here’s how to ensure you’re looking your absolute best:
1. Accessorize with Confidence
· The right accessories can elevate your bridal look. Consider adding a safa (traditional headpiece) or sehra (floral garland) for a regal touch. These accessories not only complement the bridal outfit but also carry cultural significance.
· Opt for brooches, cufflinks, and pocket squares to add sophistication to your modern bridal wear. If you’re wearing a traditional outfit like a sherwani or kurta, consider kamarbandh (waist belt) and stone-studded jewelry to complete your look.
2. Footwear to Match
· Traditional mojari or juttis are a perfect match for ethnic bridal wear. These shoes are often embroidered with zardosi, mirror work, or beads and add a polished finish to your outfit.
· If you’re opting for a tuxedo or suit, ensure that your formal shoes match the color of your outfit. Black leather oxfords or derbies are classic choices that will never go out of style.
3. Grooming and Hair
· A clean, polished look is essential for a groom on his wedding day. Ensure your hair is neatly styled, whether you prefer a slick back, a side part, or textured curls.
· Beard grooming is equally important. Whether you choose a clean shave, a well-groomed beard, or a moustache, ensure it’s neat and suits your face shape.
Popular Accessories for Men’s Bridal Wear
Accessories can make or break a bridal look. Here are some accessories that grooms often consider for their wedding attire:
1. Safa or Sehra
· The safa, a traditional headgear, is usually worn with sherwanis or kurta-pajamas. It is made from silk or cotton fabric and is wrapped around the groom’s head in an intricate pattern. Sehra, a floral garland attached to the safa, adds a romantic and regal look to the groom’s outfit.
2. Kamarbandh (Waist Belt)
· The kamarbandh is a decorative waist belt often worn with sherwanis and kurta-pajamas. It adds definition to the waist and is typically made of gold, silver, or embroidered fabric.
3. Brooches and Cufflinks
· Brooches and cufflinks add a personal and modern touch to bridal wear. A gold or diamond brooch can be pinned to the groom’s sherwani or suit for an elegant and polished finish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the most popular bridal wear for men in India?
· The sherwani remains the most popular and traditional bridal wear for men in India. It is often preferred for weddings, receptions, and festive occasions due to its regal appeal and versatility.
2. Can I wear a suit instead of traditional wear for my wedding?
· Yes, many modern grooms opt for a suit or tuxedo, especially for destination weddings or Western-style ceremonies. A well-tailored suit with minimal embellishments is an elegant option.
3. What accessories should I wear with my bridal wear?
· Popular accessories include safa, sehra, kamarbandh, brooches, and cufflinks. The right accessories will complement your attire and enhance your overall look.
4. What is the best fabric for men’s bridal wear?
· For traditional bridal wear, fabrics like silk, velvet, and brocade are ideal. For modern bridal outfits, satin, chiffon, and cotton are also great options.
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· Modern men’s bridal wear
· Bridal suit for men