Ethnic Wear for Men

Indian Traditional Wear for Men with Modern Style

From being a daily wear in India to being recognized globally, the traditional dress for men has shown great progress. While Indian ethnic wear for men may seem to deviate from the usually worn shirts and pants, they have a history of being prominently worn by men for daily wear as well as on occasions.

In the ethnic sense, men's clothing has always seemed to follow certain structures but the designers have kept on experimenting with them. Because of this, Indian outfits for men are no more boring or conventional and continue to receive global appreciation. Scroll through to learn more about ethnic wear for men and accessories to pair with them for various occasions.

Popular Traditional Wear for Men

Kurta: When it comes to Indian ethnic wear for men, kurtas are a go-to for any occasion or daily wear. Kurtas have been in style for the longest time in India and continue to be a remarkable addition to men’s ethnic wear. A kurta can be classified as a loosely fit garment that usually extends to the knees and has slits on either side from the waist to the hemline. Note that the proportions of the conventional long sleeves and knee-length may vary depending on the choice of the wearer as well as based on the fashion trends.

Styling Tip: If you love the comfort of a kurta, then play with the styles of the kurta to not look monotonous every day. Necklines like v-neck, collar neck, and cowl necks are a few that you can opt for. Instead of solid-colored kurtas, select prints like ikat, floral, geometric, and abstract are known to accentuate the look. Dial things up by pairing a solid-colored kurta with a pajama of the same color scheme and a floral Nehru jacket. For daily wear, you can opt for a short kurta whereas occasions can be the time to wear those long kurtas.

Bandhgala: Popularly known as Jodhpuri suits, the Bandhgalas are an opulent addition to your traditional ethnic look. This Indian ethnic wear for men originated from Jodhpur. Bandhgala is apt as formal wear because of its sleek look. The silhouette of this Indian outfit for men has similarities with a tuxedo.

Styling Tip: Apart from the usual collared neckline, the mandarin necks are interesting additions to the bandhgalas that you can add to your collection. For formal events, opt for bandhgalas in shades like black, navy blue, dark grey, cream, and so on. If you are planning to don this Indian outfit for men on an auspicious occasion like a wedding ceremony, then go for embroidered patches or embellishments throughout its length.

Sherwani: This traditional wear for men is known as an outfit that is worn at wedding ceremonies. Sherwanis exude grandeur and poise which makes it apt for D-days. While the sherwanis cannot be worn on bare skin because of its heavy embroidery, pair it with a kurta, tee, or vest underneath it.

Styling Tip: Don an embroidered sherwani on your wedding to elevate your look. Choose from a range of embroideries in outline, patchwork, whitework, and more. While white kurtas are worn under the sherwani, coordinate the color of the sherwani with the kurta to set an impression. If you prefer to wear a cream-colored sherwani, opt for embellishments in maroon, navy blue, and emerald greens to amplify your look. Alternatively, for a minimal look, opt for work in the same color as the sherwani.

Achkan: The achkan is an Indian ethnic wear for men that extends to the knees and is usually an alternate for sherwanis. Achkans that are being worn today can be traced back to Mughal roots. This men’s ethnic wear has a high-collared neck and is slightly flared below the waist. Usually, achkans are perfect for wedding ceremonies as well as festive occasions.

Styling Tip: Mandarin collars are a striking addition to the Achkan sherwani. Depending on your style, you can opt for buttons in colors like gold, silver, or ivory on a solid-colored achkan or an embroidered one. For a subtle look, go for designs and buttons in the same shade as the garment. You can alternatively opt for bold designs and patchwork on a jewel tone for an exquisite look.

Bottomwear On Indian Outfit for Men

Lungi:This bottom wear is worn by men across India for occasions and daily wear. Names like veshti, mundu, and panche are popularly known to describe this garment. The lungi is a long piece of cloth that is pleated and has the flow of a skirt. Since there is no fixed manner to wear the lungi, you can choose to experiment with the garment. However, the classic one is worn by draping it with pleats similar to a saree. Choose silk lungis for grand ceremonies and cotton or linen ones as casual wear.

Dhoti: Traditionally worn by men in India, the dhoti is a garment that holds cultural significance. Dhotis have been mentioned in Vedas and Upanishads as a symbol of pride and respect. Scientifically, wearing this garment is known for its breathability and comfort. They are worn by twisting it in a way that a pant-like structure is formed. If you are looking for a hassle-free alternative for the same, then dhoti pants are something you could try on.

Pajamas: A classic addition to traditional wear for men is pajamas. If you want a subtle look to your kurta or you wish to balance an embroidered kurta or sherwani, then wear a pajama in white or cream color. No matter the occasion, pajamas are always useful in a traditional closet.

Churidars: Among the different types of ethnic bottom wear, churidars are royal additions to the list. These pants have a relaxed fit on the waist and get tighter from the knees to the ankles, sporting gathered fabric at the ankles. These pants work well with straight-line, asymmetric, and flared kurtas as well as on sherwanis and achkans. Opt for these bottom wears to add structure to your look.

How To Choose Men’s Traditional Wear For Different Occasions:

The elegance of ethnic wear for men cannot be denied. However, not all ensembles suit all occasions. Here’s how to pick the perfect traditional dress for men to exude sophistication always:

• Weddings Mens Wear: Nothing beats the allure of a stylish sherwani or a tailored Jodhpuri suit when it comes to weddings. These Indian mens wear radiate a regal elegance suitable for guests and grooms alike. Ensure you pick out luxurious fabrics such as silk, brocade, or velvet. Rich colors like deep red, maroon, emerald green, and navy blue go perfectly with the wedding vibe.
• Festivals Outfit for Men: Festivals are all about joy and colors, and your ethnic mens wear should match the atmosphere. Be it Diwali or Eid, the goal is to dress your best while staying comfortable. This delicate balance of style and comfort should be a priority. A kurta pajama or Dhoti kurta in silk, silk blends, or cotton is the apt choice. To match the festive mood, colors such as mustard yellow, blossom pink, and vivid green are perfect.
• Formal Events: Events such as formal dinners, office parties, and cultural events call for mens ethnic wear that quietly speaks of understated elegance. You need to look good while still maintaining the decorum of the event. Go for a sharp Ackhan or Jodhpuri suit for a polished appearance. Muted tones such as neutrals like beige, taupe, and charcoal grey work the best. Pastel shades like blush pink, mint green, and baby blue add extra charm.
• Casual Gatherings: These occasions are all about letting your hair down and enjoying yourself. You need Indian ethnic wear for men that expresses cultural identity without the formality. Fusion looks like pairing a short kurta with denims or cotton pajamas offers a relaxed yet polished look. Breathable fabrics such as cotton, cotton blends, and linen lean into the comfort factor. Experiment with prints and textures for an easy luxe look. Keep the accessories to a minimum: a stylish watch will do.

Must-Have Accessories for Men’s Ethnic Looks

If you prefer to take your look a notch higher in the traditional sense, add a dupatta and a turban depending on the occasion. Accessorize your look with pearl malas, gold chains, and kadas. Choose from bottom wear like dhotis and lungis for auspicious ceremonies. Alternatively, you can also add pajamas and churidars for a festive look. Complete the look with a pair of juttis and mojaris.

For an indo-western look, you can start off by pairing upper garments with jeans or cigarette pants. Denim and leather jackets can be added for a chic look. As for accessories, wear sunglasses along with a digital or analogue watch for that dashing look. You can also opt for a silver chain bracelet. Complete your look by wearing footwear like white sneakers or brown loafers.

Shop Traditional Wear for Men at Mirraw

Redefine the styles in the mens ethnic wear for occasions with the help of the above options. The variations in mens ethnic wear from upper wear to bottom wear and the styling tips will make you feel like a royal. While Mirraw has already explained the spread of options available, we will help to get your hands on them too. Mirraw has an exclusive collection of traditional wear for men just for you. So, shop for ethnic wear and more at Mirraw.