Picture this: The wedding procession is dancing down the aisle as the dhol's beat brings the world to life. Welcome to the Indian wedding extravaganza, where you, the Baraati, are the life of the party! The role of a Baraati is etched in centuries of heritage. It's a role marked by the footprints of joyous dances, the laughter shared over auspicious rituals, and the finest attire. You're the frontline of the groom's squad, a key player in this vibrant celebration. Your mission? To look drop-dead gorgeous while keeping it cool through the whirlwind of festivities.
To navigate the constellation of wedding events - from the jovial Sangeet night, laden with dance and song, to the Haldi, painted in the hues of turmeric and joy, and finally to the paramount wedding procession and reception - a Baraati's wardrobe is less of clothing and more of a garb of festivity. Fret not, we've got the ultimate style playbook to make sure you're turning heads at every step without breaking a sweat.
The Kurta Jacket Ensemble – Your Party Armor
First up, the kurta jacket set – a true game-changer in men's ethnic wear. Think premium fabrics like silks and silk blends which look luxurious but feel breezy through endless ceremonies and wild dance-offs. A suave pista green kurta set, a midnight blue ceremonious kurta set or a wine kurta and black churidar are some timeless festive combinations to include in your wardrobe.
Chikankari kurtas with elaborate embroidery, or mirror work and brocade kurtas, that are well-fitted with just enough flair for those impromptu bhangra moves are what you should be looking for. And the jacket? Rich with handwork and sequins, making a statement, ready to be layered on or off according to the event.
Indo-Western Gear – The Best of Both Worlds
Next, let's talk Indo-Western, where tradition meets contemporary style. The Jodhpuri suit, for instance, is a power move. It takes its cues from the British military tunic but is indigenized with local fabrics and embroidery, thus giving the Baraati a sartorial edge that is both regal and contemporary. As it pairs with trousers that boast a cosmopolitan cut, the Jodhpuri suit becomes an emblem of global fashion, equally at home in a palace as it is in an urban venue. Think of it as the tuxedo's cooler, cultural cousin.
And for those who like a touch of the unconventional, there's the Nehru jacket combo – sophistication with a side of suave. The jacket combo strays from the classic path and embraces versatility. Its mandarin collar imparts an intellectual charm and political gravitas to the Baraati's ensemble. A regal black, white or blue Nehru Jacket, with luxurious zari work is a fine choice. When coupled with a kurta or even western formal wear, it offers a visual sonnet of relaxed elegance—ideal for pre-wedding events.
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Sherwanis - Contemporary Classics for the Regal Baraati
Let's not forget about the Sherwani. This isn't your average wedding wear. It's the outfit that makes heads turn, and cameras click. Focus on the cut and the right fit and choose from luxe brocades or traditional zardozi embroidery for that perfect baraati look. The Sherwani is the perfect fusion of conventional and contemporary fashion, synonymous with the wedding day. It holds the gravitas of tradition with its long, coat-like silhouette but embraces modernity with cuts and embellishments that speak a contemporary design language. This garment is often a playground for designers to marry heavy embroidery with lightweight material, so the Baraati moves and grooves with ease, unencumbered by the weight of his attire. For a fitting Baraati look, opt for a front open styled sherwani jacket which is perfectly dressy and quite distinct in comparison to the traditional grooms’ wear sherwani.
Accessorising your Ensemble – The Devil is in the Details
Accessories are where you get to play. The Safa, a traditional Indian turban, is a crowning glory. It relays a noble touch, speaking volumes about your style and is often a hallmark of a baraati. No less important is the Dupatta, which, when draped over a Sherwani or Bandhgala, adds an ethereal quality to the ensemble. A vibrant dupatta can completely change the vibe of an outfit and level it up. The right footwear, whether it is a pair of sandals, jutis or loafers brings definition and character to the ensemble.
Brooches add that dash of personality to your outfit. Whether pinned to the chest or the turban, a brooch is a statement of personal flair. From stones that mimic the stars to metalwork that speaks of old-world charm, they are subtle indicators of a well-styled look. Don’t forget to pair your attire with the right statement maker for every occasion that sets you apart as a star of the groom squad.
And in the details of a pocket square, one finds the quiet sartorial sophistication. The right pocket square can pull together an outfit, throwing in a splash of colour and pattern that echoes or contrasts with the larger ensemble. The fold itself is a matter of personal expression—whether a sharp geometric line or a softer, puff fold—speaking volumes of the wearer's attention to detail.
As the wedding saga unfolds, remember, your outfit is an integral part of the celebration. It's about embodying the spirit of the wedding, from the energetic Baraat to the soulful pheras. Your style is your story at the wedding. It's as important as the laughs, the dances, the pictures, and the memories. So, as you step into your Baraati avatar, embrace the elegance, the comfort, and the joy of being part of something truly magical.
And when the night ends, and you step out of your ensemble, remember that you're leaving behind the story of a day filled with joy, style, and unforgettable moments. Here's to you, the Baraati – the heartbeat of the wedding, the style icon of the evening!
Explore our exclusive Baraati collection here!