HERE COMES THE GROOM
HERE COMES THE GROOM
As men get more discerning about their wardrobes, it’s time to take a fresh look at what they should be wearing to their own wedding. Bani Sachar puts together the ultimate expert-approved guide.
The modern Indian groom is no longer a bystander when it comes to conversations on wedding wardrobes. In 2025, he’s giving serious main character energy, curating and customising his looks with the same enthusiasm and care that has long been reserved for the bride. This evolution is more about rewriting tradition with elegance and personal nuance, and less about catering to the transient trendscape. Whether he leans towards classic or contemporary, regal or
restrained, today’s groom is seeking more than a sartorial spectacle. He’s looking for meaning and memory. A sherwani stitched with personal symbolism, a draped kurta that defies convention, or a perfectly tailored bandhgala that lasts beyond the wedding, it’s all about a wardrobe that is designed to express, not just impress. We turned to the designers headlining the Indian menswear landscape to understand this shift and for some tricks of the trade.
“WEAR WHO YOU ARE”
GAURAV KHANIJO
The most significant shift in the present – day groom’s wardrobe is personal expression. “The Indian groom is finally dressing for himself. Not just for the sake of tradition or the camera,” says designer Gaurav Khanijo. “We’re also seeing a return to heirloom accents such as embroidery inspired by family crests or the use of vintage buttons,” he adds.
Khanijo’s brand has come to be known for its clever layering. It comes as no surprise, then, that his advice is to pile on the separates, but only in a manner that feels effortless. “Perhaps a handwoven jacket over a kurta or mixed textures for added intrigue,” he suggests. Khanijo champions an earthy palette of sandstone, washed indigo and dusty rose, with fabrics that breathe and age gracefully. Think bamboo blends and Chanderis.
“TRUST IN TAILORING”
SARAH & SANDEEP GONSALVES
Men are approaching wedding wear with a more refined eye now, observe designer duo Sarah and Sandeep Gonsalves. The outdated sherwani overloaded with embroidery has given way to sleek, modern layered pieces that easily glide from the pheras to the reception. “Less is more. Lead with one focal detail. This could be a shawl lapel or a statement button,” says Sarah. Sandeep recommends considering structured silhouettes with subtle, sophisticated design cues such as sharp lapels, tone-on-tone detailing, and hidden closures that elevate without overwhelming. If you fancy jewel tones like emerald and oxblood, pick them in matte velvets and silk blends, but keep the rest of the look simple.
“MAKE IT MEANINGFUL”
KUNAL RAWAL
The go-to designer for some of Bollywood’s biggest stars, Kunal Rawal believes that the most exciting development in Indian menswear is the growing involvement of grooms in curating their wardrobe. “They’re walking in with a point of view now,” he says. Rawal is a champion of modern functionality—separates, tonal embroidery and detachable elements that allow garments to evolve after the event it has been bought for. “Versatility is the foundation,” he explains. “A bandhgala that doubles as a jacket, a sherwani you can restyle—these aren’t luxuries, they’re necessities for a groom today. We’re designing pieces that breathe, move, and most importantly, stay relevant long after the last dance,” Rawal adds. Wear these in tones of wine and military green to bring edge to heritage.
ACE ADVICE
Costume designer and stylist to stars like Aditya Roy Kapur, Akshay Tyagi shares his top cues for the modern groom. From the fittings to the pheras, here’s what to know
DON’T BE AFRAID TO PLAY WITH SILHOUETTES: From dhotis styled with tailored jackets to hybrid East-meets-West looks, today’s menswear thrives on fusion.
EMBRACE FLAMBOYANCE: Jewellery isn’t just for the bride. Whether it’s a kalgi or layered jewellery, don’t shy away from bold accessories.
PASTELS ARE A POWER MOVE: Colours like pistachio green, sage and softer pinks with tonal embroidery work beautifully for day weddings. Sequins and mirror work aren’t the only way to go.
COMFORT IS YOUR BEST MAN: Especially footwear, you’ll be on your feet a lot. Don’t forget to pin accessories like turbans and jewellery securely in place. You don’t want to worry about them shifting mid-celebration.
REJECT THE FORMULA: Want to wear quirky sneakers with your sherwani? Do it. Make your own rules. Boring, predictable looks are over. Find ways to honour your heritage while also pushing it forward.
“LET STRUCTURE SPEAK”
SHANTANU & NIKHIL MEHRA
In a sea of overly ornate occasionwear, designer duo Shantanu and Nikhil Mehra emphasise the elegance of restraint, as well as silhouettes that balance form with fluidity. “Think structured jackets paired with billowing trousers, cropped bandhgalas, draped kurtas and even flowing culottes,” says Shantanu. The duo recommends a palette leaning into muted opulence too, such as ochre and dusty rose. “Pastels, once seen as unconventional, now carry a quiet confidence,” says Nikhil. Ultimately, it’s not about choosing between tradition and modernity, but finding a gentle balance. “Subtle tailoring and thoughtful construction speak volumes. The modern groom doesn’t need to shout to stand out,” they add.
