2026 Style Commandments: How To Avoid A Faux Pas This Year
Expert tips on how to do it right in terms of style!
The new year isn't just about making resolutions but ringing in a major style reset too.
For instance, trainers may be the most comfortable footwear you own but that doesn't mean you'd style them with your suit and with a kurta set. More often than not, we all end up buying tailored pieces online but it's important to alter them as per one's actual measurements.
By far, trouser length is something most Indian men struggle with. Either it ends up way above the ankles or goes right under the boots. Moreover, wearing a logo shirt which screams branding is the biggest faux pas. No one wants to read 'Balmain' and 'Armani Exchange' spelt out in bold fonts on your T-shirt. Logomania may spill into 2026 but it's sensible to tone it down instead of getting too carried away with unabashed branding. Less is always more. One doesn't want to come across as someone who tries too hard to fit in.
Thou shall not blend in
Most Indian men prefer the overdone head-to-toe black look for evening outings. Black is good but only if worn with a personality. Wearing a black T-shirt with a pair of blue denims and a logo buckle belt doesn't make you stylish but rather uninspiring. We aren't suggesting investing in an avant-garde piece but it's good to come out of your comfort zone rather than being stuck in a style rut of sorts. "Most men dress to blend in, not stand out and that’s the biggest mistake," says Rizwan Shaikh of label Nafs. Look presentable yet chilled out, if you're heading out for a night out.
Thou shall not wear sunglasses after dark
Unless you're being chased by paparazzi, don't wear sunglasses in the evening. You only come across as someone too keen for attention. This holds true for some of us who work in fashion and wear sunglasses while viewing a fashion show staged indoors and take them off on our way out while booking an Uber. Wear those Chanel sunnies only for brunches when you're either nursing a hangover or want to avoid some guests you're likely to bump into. "Good style isn’t loud, but it should say something about you," says Shamsz Sayed of label Nafs.
Thou shall follow the dress code
Heading to a black-tie event? Please follow the dress code. Pick a black suit embodying a bit of an attitude. A shawl collar is a more inviting idea than a peak lapel which seems rather stiff and more formal. Complete the look with a bespoke tuxedo shirt with front bibs, cufflinks, studs and a cummerbund along with a pair of black patent leather loafers or Oxfords. However, if the invite says, 'cocktail attire' then perhaps don a velvet blazer, a formal shirt with a bit of buttons undone and complete the look with Chelsea boots.
Thou shall invest in timeless knitwear
Let's begin the year by looking at jumpers and cardigans aced by Jacob Elordi and Paul Mescal. While Jacob has been wearing suave knits by Bottega Veneta, Paul has been partial to Gucci sweaters. Since most men love sticking to blacks, greys and blues, a punchy knitwear piece can infuse a bit of colour and personality into their looks. Embrace cardigans and turtlenecks which have a character and texture - something cozy and comfortable.
Thou shall not chase trends
It's been a year of endless trends from grandpacore to cottagecore to mob wife to old money aesthetic. However, not every trend is for you and if you attempt to embrace all of it, you may come across as a fashion victim. Harshad Panchal, Lead Designer, XYXX observes that the biggest mistake guys make is thinking more effort equals better style. "Overstyling, chasing every micro-trend, or wearing fits that don’t suit their body ends up looking forced. Another thing people overlook is what they’re wearing underneath ill-fitting innerwear that rides up or traps heat and can ruin even a good outfit. In 2026, style is stripped back and intentional. Clean fits, breathable fabrics, and clothes that move with you matter way more than loud branding. If it feels easy to wear, you’re probably doing it right.”
Oversized doesn't mean ill-fitting!
We’ve moved past the era of skinny jeans, but in 2026, the real error is losing the body’s architecture entirely under mounds of fabric. Arun Kumar, Head of Design at Rare Rabbit shares, "Moving forward, avoid the 'costume' trap: wearing a trend like technical utility or high-waisted tailoring just because it’s on a mood board, without checking if it translates to your actual life or actually speaks to your personal narrative. Real style in 2026 isn't about the loudest logo; it’s about the 'hand-feel' of your fabrics and ensuring your proportions actually say something about who you are, rather than just what you bought.”
