Embracing fashion with style: Indian menswear is evolving with style and substance

Today’s man is dressing for his lifestyle, which means clothing must travel effortlessly from boardroom to cocktail hour, from wedding functions to weekend brunches.(Image: Asuka Couture)

The world of Indian menswear is witnessing a quiet but powerful shift in presentation. No longer confined to stiff silhouettes and traditional tropes, the modern Indian man is embracing a wardrobe that is expressive, refined, and deeply personal. In many ways, the modern Indian man’s style journey is mirroring a broader cultural shift and a move toward authenticity, craftsmanship, and self-expression.

As fashion labels continue to reinterpret what elegance means for men today, one thing is clear: the future of menswear in India is thoughtful, tailored, and truly individual. “Menswear today is undergoing a renaissance where individuality coexists with classicism,” says Piyush Mohnani, founder of fashion label Asuka.

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The modern man is moving beyond rigid tailoring, opting for silhouettes that are sculpted yet fluid to create a language of understated power and personality. This change is not just about aesthetics but also about purpose. Mohnani believes timelessness is preserved not by repeating the past but by reimagining it, and he mentions, “Our designs often marry sharp cuts with artisanal craftsmanship -- be it through unconventional embroidery or modern fabric finishes -- allowing men to express themselves boldly while remaining anchored in elegance and structure.”

Style files for modern men:

Indian menswear is embracing function without sacrificing style. Today’s man is dressing for his lifestyle, which means clothing must travel effortlessly from boardroom to cocktail hour, from wedding functions to weekend brunches. “Two enduring shifts we’re observing are the rise of purposeful design and refined restraint,” adds Mohnani. “Men are gravitating toward garments that offer versatility without compromising on sophistication -- think structured ensembles that carry seamlessly from day to evening. Simultaneously, there's a growing appreciation for luxe minimalism, where every detail, be it a fine hand-stitch or a tonal embellishment, serves intent over excess. These trends reflect a deeper connection with quality, longevity, and identity, and we see them becoming foundational to the modern wardrobe.”

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There’s a sense of quiet power in this new wave of menswear. Gone are the days of overdone bling and overwhelming embroidery. Instead, men are leaning into finer details like textured shawls, tonal layering, and subtle metallic touches that speak volumes without shouting for attention. Styling is about curating rather than overloading. “The art lies in considered contrast,” Mohnani explains. A well-tailored kurta or tuxedo can be elevated with a handcrafted brooch, a structured stole, or heritage-inspired footwear -- each piece curated to enhance, not overpower. The expert recommends grounding the look in clean lines and then introducing one or two accents -- whether it’s a textured shawl, tonal layering, or subtle metallic detailing. Focus on creating a composition where every layer feels intentional and every accessory holds meaning.