From Weddings to Work: Rocking a Green Nehru Jacket with Flair

What is a Nehru Jacket?

A nehru jacket, also known as a bandh gala or jodhpuri jacket, is a hip-length coat with a mandarin collar and a button-down front. It's a quintessential piece of Indian menswear, named after the country's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, who often sported this style.

When crafted in rich, earthy shades like olive, forest, or sage, green nehru jacket styles takes on a whole new dimension. It becomes a statement piece that's at once traditional and trendy, classic and contemporary.

The History of the Nehru Jacket

The origins of the nehru jacket can be traced back to the late 19th century, when the Indian aristocracy began adopting Western-style tailoring. However, it was Nehru who popularised this garment in the 1940s and 50s, making it his signature look.

By shortening the jacket and removing the lapels, Nehru created a streamlined silhouette that was both elegant and practical. This modernised version quickly caught on, becoming a symbol of India's newly independent identity.

The Perfect Nehru Jacket for Men

Now, let's talk about the star of the show - the nehru jacket for men. When shopping for this jacket, look for one that's well-tailored and fits you like a glove. The jacket should sit snugly on your shoulders and taper at the waist for a flattering silhouette.

In terms of fabric, opt for rich, textured materials like silk, brocade, or even velvet for a luxurious feel. And don't be afraid to choose a nehru jacket with some embellishments, like tone-on-tone embroidery or a bejewelled buttons. Styling nehru jackets while keeping these little details in mind can take your outfit from ordinary to extraordinary.

Styling with Kurta Jackets

Another way to style your green nehru jacket is by layering it over a kurta jacket. This contemporary twist on traditional wear is perfect for those who want to make a fashion-forward statement.

• Choose a kurta jacket in a complementary colour like cream, gold, or even a contrasting hue like maroon. The key is to create a balanced, eye-catching look.
• Opt for a shorter kurta jacket that hits at the hip, so it doesn't peek out from under the nehru jacket.
• Experiment with different textures and fabrics to add some depth to your outfit. For example, you could pair a silk nehru jacket with a cotton kurta for a play on contrasts.

Complementary Colour Outfits to Style This Jacket

Choosing the right colours to pair with your nehru jacket can make all the difference in your overall look. Here are some foolproof complementary colour outfits to try:

Understanding Colour Theory

Before we dive into specific colour pairings, let's take a quick crash course in colour theory. Complementary colours are those that sit opposite each other on the colour wheel, like green and red, blue and orange, or purple and yellow.

When worn together, complementary colour outfits create a striking, high-contrast look that's sure to turn heads. However, it's important to balance these bold hues with neutral tones to avoid looking over-the-top.

Best Complementary Colours for Green

While styling your green jacket, try out these colour combinations to create the ultimate complementary colour outfits. Here are the must-try options:

• Maroon: Maroon is a rich, regal hue that pairs beautifully with green. For a sophisticated look, try a maroon kurta or churidar with your green jacket.
• Gold: Gold is a warm, luxurious colour that brings out the best in green. Opt for gold-toned accessories like a pocket square or a brooch to add some shine to your outfit.
• Cream: Cream is a neutral shade that helps balance out the intensity of green. A cream-coloured kurta or pajama is a classic choice that never goes out of style.
• Navy Blue: Navy blue is a deep, versatile hue that works well with most shades of green. For a modern twist, pair your jacket with a navy blue kurta and white churidar.