A Dhoti kurta and sherwani are popular ethnic dresses for men. While kurtas are often worn for celebrations and family gatherings, sherwanis are typically reserved for weddings or special events. With Indian festivities and weddings happening frequently, choosing between the two can be daunting. Men's ethnic wear designs evolve every season, but some traditional styles remain popular.

One such style is the sherwani, which has become a staple in Indian men's fashion. Originally worn by Mughal royalty, the sherwani has captured the attention of designers due to its refined silhouette and regal appearance.

The Dhoti kurta is another popular ethnic wear option that recently became a fashion statement. Jute and khadi kurtas in beige, brown, and white shades have become popular among youth.

About Dhoti Kurta

The traditional Indian men's attire, the dhoti kurta, is a combination of a long cloth wrapped around each leg in a unique way to create a baggy, trouser-like effect and a long shirt with side slits called a kurta. The style of wrapping the dhoti varies in different regions of India, resulting in various forms of this outfit. Kurtas, too, come in different lengths and necklines, including high or low collars and placket-type openings.

The dhoti kurta is extremely comfortable as the loose and airy garments allow movement. Despite the complicated wrapping process, the final look is elegant and traditional, offering comfort and classiness.

Dhoti kurta comes in various styles ranging from simple cotton combinations for daily wear to more colorful and fancier options for special occasions. The preferred colors for a dhoti kurta are white, beige, off-white, red, and maroon, though modern variations experiment with all kinds of colors.

Typically, dhoti kurtas are made of either cotton or silk. Cotton dhotis are best suited for casual wear, while the fine-looking silk dhotis are the preferred wedding and festival wear garments.

About Sherwani

Sherwani is a popular South-Asian traditional outfit often worn at formal events and wedding ceremonies. The attire consists of a knee-length coat that fits closely and is fastened with buttons in the front. It is typically worn over a kurta with a churidar pyjama or salwar. Sometimes, a dhoti can be used in place of a pyjama. A scarf is also draped over one or both shoulders to complete the look.

Men’s wedding Sherwani has a rich history, as it used to be the court dress of the nobility of Turkish and Persian origin. It signifies elegance and style, and it carries a regal feel. Sherwanis are often decorated with embroidery with a wide range of fabrics, designs, and colors available. The fabric, design, and color selection depend on personal choice and occasion.

The groom's sherwani is typically ornately decorated to make them stand out. There are different types of sherwanis available, such as Peshawari and Baloochi. Jooties are also used with sherwanis to complete the look.

The sherwani is not just a fashion statement but also signifies India's rich traditional fashion style and is the national dress of Pakistan for men. It is an outfit that exudes dignity and etiquette, making it a popular choice for formal events and wedding ceremonies.

What to choose, a dhoti kurta or sherwani?

Dressing appropriately for an event is an essential part of any occasion. Choosing the right attire ensures you look your best and feel comfortable. When it comes to traditional Indian attire, there are many options to choose from, but two of the most popular are the kurta and sherwani. Let’s explore some factors to consider when deciding which outfit to choose for different events.

Occasion: The occasion plays an important role when choosing between the kurta and sherwani. A kurta is great for family gatherings and celebrations, while sherwanis are typically reserved for weddings or other formal events. It's important to consider the tone of the event and the level of formality when making your choice.

Partner's outfit: Coordinating outfit with your partner can create a cohesive look and enhance your overall appearance. A sherwani is the perfect complement if your partner is wearing a sari or lehenga. On the other hand, if your partner is wearing a salwar suit, a dhoti kurta would match perfectly.

Fabric: Both kurta pyjamas and sherwanis can be made from a variety of fabrics, each with its unique characteristics. For instance, silk is a popular fabric for sherwanis as it gives a luxurious look and feels great. On the other hand, cotton is a great choice for kurta pyjamas as it is breathable and comfortable to wear for long periods.

Weather: It's essential to consider the weather when deciding between a kurta and a sherwani. If you're attending an event in the winter, a sherwani is an excellent choice to keep you warm while still looking stylish. On the other hand, if it's a warm day, a kurta in a light fabric would be a great option to keep you cool and comfortable.

Color and design: The choice of color and design is a personal preference, but it's important to consider the occasion and tone of the event. For weddings, sherwanis in bold colors with intricate embroidery are a popular choice, while for family gatherings, a simple dhoti kurta in a light color would be appropriate. Ultimately, the design and color should reflect your personality and style while still being appropriate for the event.

Conclusion

The dhoti kurta and sherwani have unique qualities and are popular ethnic wear options for men in India. Choosing between the two depends on various factors such as the occasion, partner's outfit, and weather. While a dhoti kurta is perfect for family gatherings and celebrations, a sherwani is more suited for weddings and formal events.

Ultimately, the decision depends on personal preference, style, and the image one wants to project. Whatever your choice, the dhoti kurta and sherwani are traditional and elegant options that enhance any man's look.