Jawaharlal Nehru, the former Prime Minister, has been gone for a long time! Nonetheless, the Nehru jacket, which he popularised, is still in style today! True, the jacket has had a few brief sightings, but it has undoubtedly returned with a bang these days! If you're a fashion-conscious man who doesn't want to wear it in the traditional style all the time, here are a few suggestions for changes that should come in helpful.
Now, for those unfamiliar with a Nehru jacket, here is a brief explanation.
Since the evergreen sherwani/achkan-inspired Nehru, the jacket goes up to the hips. During India's pre-independence era, this article of apparel was viral. The jacket's collar was the show's star, even though it had a very delicate design and elegance. It mimicked the Mandarin officials' unfolded and short pattern in China. The collar was stiff and tight across the neck. As a result, it became known as the Band Gale Ka Coat or Closed Neck Coat. It quickly became a common sight at formal functions, with both Indians and Britons praising the novel look! It also helps that this famous jacket goes with any outfit, whether ethnic or western. On the other hand, you might wear it to a casual outing or a semi-formal or formal occasion. It's no surprise that this flexible piece of apparel is referred to as "timeless"!
Denim is a great match
Who says the jacket must be worn exclusively with a dhoti/pajama and kurta? If you like, you can wear it with a fashionable pair of jeans or denim trousers! It should be noted that wearing jeans is considered casual. Then a funky tone will complement your jacket better. If you're wearing traditional denim, though, choose darker colors. In other words, choose your colors carefully so that they all look to be complementary.
The Informal Affair
If you're planning to wear this jacket to a casual occasion or function, you shouldn't go for heavy or rich fabrics. Choose something light but stylish enough to match with the casual or semi-formal shirt you'll be wearing underneath. Don't button up the jacket if you don't want others to stare at your strange fashion sense!
Trying to be Traditional
Okay, you prefer to keep things conventional and not play with the Nehru jacket too much! You can, however, play around with the bottom wear. You are welcome to wear a dhoti or churidar or try on a pair of Jodhpurs to see how they 'look' on you. Just keep an eye out for color contrasts or color combinations. For example, if you want to show off a colorful kurta, it's best to keep the jacket simple. Allow the coat to be a vibrant color if your kurta is subdued in color. Kolhapuris, mojaris, or dress shoes complete the elegant style.
These are just a few instances of what the Nehru jacket can be used for. Use your creativity to come up with new ways to wear it. Whatever you do, you'll be the center of attention for every girl in the room!
The Nehru jacket is a flexible piece of elegant, graceful, and timeless apparel. It looks well with dhotis, churidars, and jeans, appropriate for both non-formal and formal occasions.