Fashion
LET’S CELEBRATE DAD WEAR THIS FATHER’S DAY!
Happy Father’s Day! The time has come to celebrate and cherish all our dads out there. Even more exciting is the array of clothes and accessories offered for the men (and little boys!) in our lives! From wedding and party wear, to get-together and prayer wear, every look is as fashionable as ever.
Traditional Sherwani
Gentlemen, notice how popular traditional sherwanis have become? They’re being worn more and more, no matter how distant in relation you may be from the groom or guest of honor at weddings and functions. These long, padded silk coats with pajamis or salwars underneath look formal and elegant. For a modern twist, try going super vintage and substitute the pajama or salwar with a dhoti or pathani salwar. These loose bottoms are not only more comfortable, they add better proportion to the fitted coat on top.
Normally, a sherwani is almost always in a white, cream, or beige color palette. It’s adorned with Moghul-style embroidery, usually including the good-luck and always tasteful meena-kaari colors: red/maroon, sage green and gold. The churidaars/salwars underneath are always white, as has been the custom for ages. A more sober color emerging, that’s much darker yet still equally refined, is navy blue. It’s surprisingly stunning! The bold at heart will jump at the turquoise and silver, maroon and white, and pink and gold creations, but the current groom who’s not as secure with these louder colors may opt for a twist on the traditional look, such as a beige sherwani with silver or white work, or a white sherwani with only maroon embroidery and sequins. A flashier version of the traditional white or cream sherwani is the same color, only mixed into a gold brocade fabric. This small texture/pattern change transforms the outfit completely, making it look extremely current.
Modern/Western Sherwani
Bridegrooms now are demanding a sherwani that is more exclusive, more upmarket looking, with a touch of American flair. Runways have achieved this goal by offering these pieces in a more updated variety. A short brocade vest underneath a long open-jacket sherwani is becoming prominent. Also, the ‘western sherwani’ looks quite striking with its customary pant slacks and high-collared coat hitting slightly above the knee. It’s almost a cross between a sherwani and jodhpuri (the Indian equivalent to the American tuxedo). These looks are catching to even the most discriminating critics’ eyes, and will definitely keep the spotlight on you!
Kurta Pajamas
For more casual wear, bolder colors and prints have become a trend. Bright green and ocean blue kurtas decorated with beige leaves or contrasting stripes are popular. Copper and silver work is being appreciated in contrast to standard gold options.
Either way worn, whichever style chosen, the sherwani is definitely a top choice in formal men’s wear, putting its contender, the jodphuri, at second place after years at first. Just remember, experimenting new looks is not scary! Be confident and try these sure-to-please styles!
Once again, Happy Father’s Day to every dad out there in every form, dads-to-be included! Ladies at times may seem overwhelmed with their motherly duties, but everyone knows and agrees, the more help, the better - four hands are always better than two! And we thank you, dads, we appreciate you wholly. And as always, remember to gro with style!
Kiran Bahl of Gro Styles, “An Indian Boutique” in Tampa and Orlando, can be reached at (813) 843-9040, e-mail [email protected] or visit www.facebook.com/grostyles