Designers have upgraded the sherwani. The contemporary version is bold, and at times, brazen and badass. Presenting the Esquire Edit, which focuses on the strongest sherwanis. Subtle to statement—there’s one for every man.
Today's sherwanis embrace a wider spectrum of colours—salmon, jade, ice blue, dusty tones and even silvers. They're becoming lighter. Shorter lengths, paired with wider trousers, are gaining traction. At our atelier, we use vibrant shades in embroidery for greater finesse.
Sherwani, kurta, trousers, all by Tarun Tahiliani; neckpieces by Love Letter; sunglasses by Saint Laurent
Gaurav Khanijo
The garment has evolved beautifully while retaining its traditional essence. For us, bold colour choices and handcrafted elements have helped redefine the classic, turning it into an expression of personality.
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From left: Sherwani, trousers, both by Falguni Shane Peacock; Clutch by AMPM; Shoes by dmodot; Sherwani, kurta and trousers, all by Shantnu & Nikhil; Neckpiece by Love Letter; shoes by Jeetinder Sandhu
The sherwani will always be a symbol of Indian heritage—but we've tried to reimagine it beyond its conventional aesthetics. It’s about elevating the silhouette into something that feels like a great fit for even occasions like a red-carpet or black-tie event.
Sherwani, kurta, trousers, all by Kunal Rawal
Kunal Rawal
High-low silhouettes, bucket cuts and textured brocades modernise the classic groom’s attire. Intricate details like threadwork and dhup chao (dual-toned) textures add depth, while smart cuts keep it functional and comfortable.
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We prefer sleek designs with clean cuts and understated embroidery. Fusion styling, such as pairing a sherwani with structured trousers or sneakers, offers a fashion-forward take, as does mixing fabrics like silk and velvet with modern tailoring.
The Shoes
The perfect closing argument to a great sherwani look. Oxfords, loafers or the man sandal—we always trust a slick and polished pair to upgrade the look.
From top and left to right:
Alessandro Démesure Leather Oxford Shoes Berluti
Roma Slippers Bottega Veneta
Studded Leather Loch Brogues Burberry
Horsebit loafers Gucci
Valet du Roi Ballerinas Valentino
From left: Sherwani, kurta, trousers, shoes, all by Rohit Bal; ear cuffs by Love Letter. Kurta, sherwani, sandals, all by Rajesh Pratap Singh
The sherwani (r)evolution could seem startling, a far cry from the subtle, elegant ones worn by our forebears. There is, however, one imperative question: how on earth do you pull them off?
CONFIDENCE
The one thing that’s paramount to standing out. If a statement piece makes you self-conscious, it will look like the piece is wearing you.
AWARENESS
Style is as much about the clothes as it is about connecting to yourself. Understand what your personal sense of style is. Ask yourself: Is this my vibe? Act according to your answer.
PAIR AND EDIT
Watch the details carefully. Sometimes it’s not the key piece that makes a standout statement but the various elements of the look, and the way they are paired together and styled. Note the accompanying layers—shirt or kurta, trousers, scarves and shoes. You can always retain the sherwani, throw in your simple classics and dial down the styling.
Photographer: Anubhav Sood
Stylist: Palak Valecha
Hair: Shiva Chauhan
Make-up: Vrinda Sharma
Fashion assistant: Sumit Kumar
Models: Ayush Chopra (Inega), Satvik Rai (Inega), Ambrose Haokip (Inega) and Amit Kumar
