Introduction
Marriage is a significant milestone in any individual’s life, and in Indian culture, it is celebrated with great pomp and grandeur. One of the most important aspects of an Indian wedding is the attire, especially the male wedding attire. The Indian marriage dress for men, often referred to as a sherwani, is a traditional and elegant garment that has been a staple in Indian weddings for centuries. This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of the Indian marriage dress for men, its history, types, styles, and how to choose the perfect one for your special day.
The History of the Sherwani
The sherwani is a long, loose-fitting coat that is typically worn over a kurta and pyjama. Its origins can be traced back to the Mughal Empire, where it was worn by the nobility. The sherwani was initially a part of the royal attire but has since evolved into a popular wedding garment for men. The garment is characterized by its rich embroidery, vibrant colors, and intricate designs, making it a symbol of Indian culture and heritage.
Types of Indian Marriage Dresses for Men
Traditional Sherwani
The traditional sherwani is a classic choice for an Indian wedding. It is typically made of rich fabrics like silk, brocade, or velvet and is adorned with intricate embroidery, sequins, and beads. The traditional sherwani is usually worn with a kurta and pyjama, and it is often paired with a dupatta or a shawl for added elegance.
Modern Sherwani
The modern sherwani is a more contemporary take on the traditional garment. It is characterized by its sleek lines, minimalistic designs, and modern fabrics. The modern sherwani is often made of lighter materials like cotton or linen and is designed to be more comfortable and practical for the modern groom. It can also be customized with modern embellishments like zippers, buttons, and pockets.
Western-Inspired Sherwani
The western-inspired sherwani is a fusion of traditional Indian attire and modern western styles. It is characterized by its tailored fit, western-style lapels, and modern fabrics. The western-inspired sherwani is often worn with a tuxedo shirt or a formal shirt and is paired with a pair of formal trousers. It is a popular choice for grooms who want to incorporate a touch of western style into their traditional Indian wedding attire.
Styles of Sherwani
Simple Sherwani
The simple sherwani is a classic choice for an Indian wedding. It is characterized by its plain design and minimalistic embroidery. The simple sherwani is often made of a solid color fabric and is adorned with simple embroidery or beadwork. It is a popular choice for grooms who want to keep their attire simple and elegant.
Embroidered Sherwani
The embroidered sherwani is a more elaborate choice for an Indian wedding. It is characterized by its intricate embroidery, sequins, and beads. The embroidered sherwani is often made of rich fabrics like silk or velvet and is adorned with intricate designs like floral patterns, geometric shapes, or animal motifs. It is a popular choice for grooms who want to make a statement with their attire.
Sequined Sherwani
The sequined sherwani is a glamorous choice for an Indian wedding. It is characterized by its sequins, beads, and glittering embellishments. The sequined sherwani is often made of a solid color fabric and is adorned with sequins, beads, and other glittering embellishments. It is a popular choice for grooms who want to make a bold statement with their attire.
Choosing the Perfect Sherwani
Fabric
The fabric of the sherwani is an important consideration. Traditional sherwanis are often made of rich fabrics like silk, brocade, or velvet, while modern sherwanis are made of lighter materials like cotton or linen. The fabric should be comfortable and breathable, especially if the wedding is taking place during the summer months.
Color
The color of the sherwani is another important consideration. Traditional sherwanis are often made in rich, vibrant colors like red, gold, or maroon. However, modern grooms are opting for more neutral colors like beige, navy, or grey. The color of the sherwani should complement the wedding theme and the groom’s complexion.
Embroidery and Design
The embroidery and design of the sherwani are important considerations. Traditional sherwanis are often adorned with intricate embroidery, sequins, and beads, while modern sherwanis have more minimalistic designs. The embroidery and design should complement the groom’s personality and the wedding theme.
Fit
The fit of the sherwani is an important consideration. The sherwani should fit well and be comfortable to wear. It should not be too tight or too loose. The shoulders should be well-fitted, and the sleeves should be long enough to cover the hands.
Accessories
The accessories for the sherwani are an important consideration. The sherwani is often paired with a kurta, pyjama, and a dupatta or a shawl. The groom may also wear a turban or a pagdi to complete the look. The accessories should complement the groom’s attire and the wedding theme.
Care and Maintenance of the Sherwani
The sherwani is a delicate garment that requires proper care and maintenance. Here are some tips for caring for your sherwani:
Storage
The sherwani should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. It should be hung on a hanger to prevent creases and wrinkles. If the sherwani is made of a delicate fabric like silk or velvet, it should be stored in a breathable garment bag to prevent damage.
Cleaning
The sherwani should be cleaned professionally to prevent damage to the fabric. If the sherwani is made of a delicate fabric like silk or velvet, it should be dry-cleaned. If the sherwani is made of a heavier fabric like cotton or linen, it can be machine-washed on a gentle cycle.
Ironing
The sherwani should be ironed carefully to prevent damage to the fabric. If the sherwani is made of a delicate fabric like silk or velvet, it should be ironed on a low heat setting. If the sherwani is made of a heavier fabric like cotton or linen, it can be ironed on a medium heat setting.
Dry Cleaning
The sherwani should be dry-cleaned professionally to prevent damage to the fabric. If the sherwani is made of a delicate fabric like silk or velvet, it should be dry-cleaned regularly to maintain its condition.
Conclusion
The Indian marriage dress for men, or sherwani, is a traditional and elegant garment that has been a staple in Indian weddings for centuries. It is characterized by its rich fabrics, vibrant colors, and intricate designs. The sherwani is available in various types, styles, and colors, making it a versatile choice for the modern groom. When choosing a sherwani, it is important to consider the fabric, color, embroidery, design, fit, and accessories. With proper care and maintenance, the sherwani can be a timeless addition to the groom’s wedding attire.