Top 7 Indian Designers Redefining Men’s Ethnic Wear

Indian menswear is rapidly evolving with newer, more modern interpretations. Here are seven designers leading the transformation.

Top 7 Indian Designers Redefining Men’s Ethnic Wear - F

His approach to menswear often involves structured silhouettes.

Indian menswear is witnessing a revival, where traditional silhouettes blend seamlessly with contemporary styles.

With a growing demand for ethnic wear that feels both modern and rooted in culture, a new generation of designers is stepping up.

These designers are preserving India’s rich heritage and adding unique, modern twists, making ethnic menswear more versatile and appealing to younger audiences.

Their innovative designs are bridging the gap between tradition and modernity, creating outfits that can be worn on various occasions.

Let’s explore seven Indian designers who are in charge of redefining men’s ethnic wear, offering fresh takes on traditional styles.

Sabyasachi Mukherjee

Top 7 Indian Designers Redefining Men’s Ethnic Wear - 1Sabyasachi Mukherjee is a household name in Indian fashion, known for his ability to infuse traditional artistry with a contemporary flair.

His menswear collections celebrate intricate hand embroidery, luxurious fabrics, and regal silhouettes.

Sabyasachi often reinterprets classic designs like sherwanis and bandhgalas by blending them with global influences.

His menswear not only appeals to grooms but also to men seeking sophisticated ethnic wear with a touch of elegance.

His bold use of colours and textures ensures that each piece stands out, redefining how men approach festive and formal ethnic attire.

Tarun Tahiliani

Top 7 Indian Designers Redefining Men’s Ethnic Wear - 2Tarun Tahiliani is celebrated for combining Indian craftsmanship with European tailoring techniques.

His approach to menswear often involves structured silhouettes that are both flattering and comfortable.

Known for intricate draping and layering, Tarun’s designs elevate traditional Indian attire into luxurious modern ensembles.

His collections frequently feature asymmetrical kurtas, bandhgalas, and sherwanis, often crafted in lightweight fabrics that suit modern lifestyles.

Tarun’s commitment to innovation, while maintaining the essence of Indian culture, makes him a designer who constantly pushes the boundaries of men’s ethnic fashion.

Raghavendra Rathore

Top 7 Indian Designers Redefining Men’s Ethnic Wear - 3Raghavendra Rathore’s regal designs reflect his royal lineage and deep connection to India’s heritage.

Specialising in bandhgalas, Jodhpuri suits, and kurtas, his creations are timeless and elegant.

However, what sets him apart is his focus on tailoring and structure, ensuring that his pieces are as contemporary as they are traditional.

Rathore’s menswear collections often use understated colours and minimalist designs, appealing to men who prefer refined yet impactful ethnic wear.

His ability to infuse heritage with modernity makes him a go-to designer for men looking for understated sophistication.

Shantanu & Nikhil

Top 7 Indian Designers Redefining Men’s Ethnic Wear - 4Brothers Shantanu and Nikhil are known for their avant-garde approach to Indian menswear, often blending military-inspired aesthetics with traditional Indian designs.

Their collections exude masculinity while embracing intricate embroidery and draping techniques.

Shantanu & Nikhil’s sherwanis, bandhgalas, and kurtas often feature unconventional cuts, making them ideal for men who wish to stand out.

Their modern take on ethnic wear redefines the conventional, attracting younger audiences looking for bold and innovative designs that break away from tradition while staying rooted in Indian culture.

Manish Malhotra

Top 7 Indian Designers Redefining Men’s Ethnic Wear - 5Manish Malhotra is synonymous with Bollywood glamour, and his menswear collections reflect this opulent aesthetic.

Known for his grandiose designs, Manish has redefined men’s ethnic wear by introducing glamorous elements typically reserved for women’s fashion.

His use of sequins, velvet, and heavy embroidery on sherwanis and kurtas creates an aura of extravagance.

Despite the luxurious feel, his designs remain wearable, appealing to men who wish to make a statement at weddings or festive occasions.

Manish’s influence on ethnic wear continues to shape trends, making ethnic menswear glamorous and red-carpet-ready.

Anita Dongre

Top 7 Indian Designers Redefining Men’s Ethnic Wear - 6Anita Dongre’s commitment to sustainability and traditional craftsmanship extends to her menswear collections.

Her designs often incorporate eco-friendly fabrics and techniques that highlight India’s artisanal heritage.

Anita’s menswear focuses on comfort without sacrificing style, featuring relaxed kurtas, sherwanis, and bandhgalas that are both modern and timeless.

Anita Dongre is known for her detailed embroidery, which pays homage to Indian craftsmanship while being accessible to a global audience.

Her understated yet elegant designs are perfect for men who appreciate both tradition and conscious fashion.

Kunal Rawal

Top 7 Indian Designers Redefining Men’s Ethnic Wear - 7Kunal Rawal is a rising star in the world of men’s ethnic wear, known for his edgy and contemporary take on traditional silhouettes.

His designs often feature asymmetrical cuts, draped kurtas, and layered outfits, making his collections ideal for modern men who want to experiment with their style.

Kunal’s use of unconventional fabrics and textures, combined with his minimalist colour palettes, allows him to create versatile pieces that can transition from day to night.

His innovative approach to menswear has garnered him a celebrity following, making him one of the most sought-after designers for contemporary ethnic wear.

These designers are transforming the landscape of Indian men’s ethnic wear by blending tradition with innovation.

From Sabyasachi’s regal opulence to Kunal Rawal’s edgy modernism, these designers cater to men who seek both cultural authenticity and contemporary flair.

Their collections not only preserve India’s rich heritage but also appeal to a global audience, ensuring that Indian menswear remains relevant and fashion-forward.

Whether it’s a traditional wedding or a festive occasion, these designers are redefining how men approach ethnic wear, making it more versatile, stylish, and accessible than ever before.

Managing Editor Ravinder has a strong passion for fashion, beauty, and lifestyle. When she's not assisting the team, editing or writing, you'll find her scrolling through TikTok.

Images courtesy of Instagram.






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