Here's How To Make Your Festive Style Fun And Fearless

Festive style needn't be boring. Just slipping into an old kurta won't cut it anymore. October onwards is the time to have fun with colours and experiment with new silhouettes and let your innate preppy take a backseat.

Believe it or not but desi men look best in Indian festive bling and the onset of celebratory weeks leading up to Diwali is the ideal time to scout for some timeless pieces, which bring out your inherent machismo. Our B-Town actors' recent spate of festive appearances prove that desi ceremonial style should be embraced with ease and panache. Otherwise, it falls flat. Actor Sunny Kaushal's black velvet kurta look accented with dori work by designer Punit Balana could be a great reference point. Recently Riteish Deshmukh wore an ivory tone on tone embroidered Bandhgala by Shantnu Nikhil finished with the house's signature crest, layered over a draped kurta and wide-leg trousers. A beautiful cross between structure and fluidity. Another noteworthy outing was by actor Neil Nitin Mukesh who looked dapper in a Payal Singhal mint silk embroidered kurta for his promotional outing. Ranbir Kapoor who's always known for keeping it simple and sharp opted for a Kunal Rawal kurta accented with argyle butti work for Ganpati celebrations. Also worth mentioning is Shahid Kapoor who turned heads in a head-to-toe velvet look by Falguni Shane Peacock in midnight blue.  

A lot of homegrown India Proud labels have introduced edgy and playful style in the menswear festive space. From cropped kurtas to bomber kurtas to edited bandis - the new-age silhouettes feel of the moment while being mindful of our heritage. Designer Monisha Jaising who's been experimenting with the kurta silhouette for decades now introduces new menswear variations in earthy tones accented with her atelier's signature mirror work. SVA's newest line - Sitara features an array of lightweight kurtas accented with silver thread and sequin embroidery. If you're looking for pieces which play out heritage embroideries like kasab work, then your search ends at Nafs by Rizwan Shaikh. The brand's newest collection Dua features tussar silk kurtas featuring intricate kasab work and styled with flared pants. 

Designer Rizwan Shaikh of the label Nafs suggests that to make your festive looks stand out, go for vibrant, fun colours like rust, canary yellow, or shimmering gold. "Instead of traditional bandhgalas or bundis, experiment with cool Indo-western jackets, layered over sheer kurta or shirts for a modern twist. You can play with textures and layering which elevates the look and adds a playful, contemporary edge," he says. 

The designer suggests accessorising with statement brooches or bajuband. "These subtle yet trending touches can instantly elevate your outfit. You can even layer minimalist chains with uncut diamond/ coloured stone pendants with traditional elements to strike that perfect balance between classic and contemporary," he adds. Designer Dhruv Vaish who recently opened a flagship store in New Delhi observes that festive wear is an opportunity to celebrate tradition with a playful edge. "Men today are open to experimenting—whether it’s layering and colour play or styling a kurta in unexpected tones, or contemporary prints and silhouettes. It’s about creating balance: rooted in heritage but elevated with modern details that make dressing festive both fun and personal," he quips.

Well thought out accessories are likely to make festive looks refreshing, youthful and contemporary. "Keep festive wear youthful by choosing contemporary cuts—high-neck kurtas, bandhgalas with asymmetric details, or layered sherwanis. Swap straight pyjamas for tapered trousers or dhoti-style bottoms. Refresh classic bandi with lightweight fabrics or cropped jackets, and finish with a casually draped stole or embroidered dupatta for a modern twist," adds Dhruv.  Accessorise with a nifty timepiece like a Patek Philippe and finish off the ensemble with some statement footwear like a pair of Gucci fur loafers or leather sandals.

Here are our top festive picks this season: 

Nafs by Rizwan Shaikh 

This tussar silk kurta featuring intricate kasab work and styled with flared pants can be accessorised with a knotted Bottega clutch in an earthy tone. 

Monisha Jaising

Channel your inner Maharaja in this mirror work kurta set which can be accessorised with a Cartier tank and a pair of metallic loafers.

Punit Balana

Heading to a pre-Diwali dinner? Ace the outing with this black velvet kurta seen on actor Sunny Kaushal. Finish off the look with a Rolex and a pair of leather flip-flops. 

Kunal Rawal

This ivory bandhgala seen on Vedang Raina is apt for a Diwali card party. Accessorise it with a diamond brooch.

SVA Couture

Wedding season is here and being a groom's man is no easy task. Steal everyone's thunder in this foliage print kurta. Layer it with a pashmina in a similar tone.

Payal Singhal

A Diwali OG night needs a firecracker like this mint kurta seen on Neil Nitin Mukesh.