Winter fashion for men: Try bandhgalas, angrakhas (With Image)

New Delhi, Nov 25 (IANS) Who said there are less options for fashion−conscious men during winters? This season, jazz up your wardrobe with Indian cuts and styles such as classic ‘bandhgalas’ or ‘angrakha’−style jackets to make a statement, suggest designers.

Unlike women, who can use accessories to glamourise their look, men face limitations on this front. But no harm in experimenting a bit!

“Being your glamorous best is a little difficult in winter, especially for men. But one can try out bandhgala jackets with ‘dhotis’ and ‘salwars’, angrakha and frock−tunic silhouette with palazzo pants and double−breasted cut in silk−brocade. These make a very contemporary statement,” designer Sunil Mehra told IANS.

For party animals, go mafia chic, says designer Aniket Satam.

“Sport well−fitted trousers teamed with shirts in baroque jacquard. Also try suede and velvet jackets for maximum party appeal,” he told IANS.

There are other options too depending on the mood and the setting.

“Classic Indian patterns and style lines such as angrakha jackets, ‘bandi’−style ‘koti’ and asymmetrical panelled jackets work well for a more Indo−Boho appeal. Bow ties for guys are in trend with contrasting funky graphic socks. Woollen fedora (hat) and vintage watches also add a quirky element in regular dressing for men,” Satam said.

Also, accessorising would not be a bad idea for men, especially when it comes to ethnic and fusion wear.

So, how about throwing in these options−a simple embroidered collar on a bandhgala jacket, a crushed silk stole, a brocade handkerchief, a classic brooch, pearl, silver or ‘minakari’ buttons and embroidered ‘juttis’.

However, be wary of bling and glitter.

“Please avoid anything shiny. No bling for a man. It is quite passe to put on a stone−jewelled brooch on the left of your jacket or a gold or pearl necklace. And absolutely no shiny lines of lurex in the fabrics. Do not touch polyesters and acetates−they tend to cheapen even the best of designs,” said Mehra.

No wonder then that it is best to stick to understated yet luxurious clothing in rich and dark tones. Follow fabrics such as velvets, silks and wool blends and opt for expensive cashmere wool garments if you want true luxury.

In terms of colours, grey, metallic and black with accents of neon are hot trends, says designer Pam Mehta.

“Also pull out deep military greens, browns, fawn and burgundy to add deeper hues to your wardrobe,” she said.

The designers feel it is important for men to flaunt the right attitude as trying on anything new needs a lot of confidence.

“Always remember the basic rules−that of comfort and confidence. Wear the garment; do not let it wear you,” Mehra told IANS.

(Nivedita can be contacted at nivedita.s@ians.in)

IANS 2012-11-25 13:40:04