All posts by : AyFa Collections

Nothing is sexier than dancing in the rain and slowly realising you’re in love with your childhood best friend. Under a moonlit gazebo, Shah Rukh’s Rahul and Kajol’s Anjali dance despite the radio silence. Of course, Rahul is nuzzling Anjali’s neck, tracing her face with a finger, all while drenched in a skin-tight black shirt. There is much to think about here: Anjali is engaged, Rahul’s wife is dead and his kid is also named Anjali. Nothing salacious happens. The song ends with Anjali running into the forest out of guilt when she spots the engagement band on her hand given to her by Salman Khan’s Aman. Can’t say we’d have done the same thing in her place, but you do you, girl.

Kissing in Vegas in Anjaana Anjaani (2010)

What happens when two powerhouses sit down to challenge each other and their own hardbound ideas? A dialogue that sees tradition squaring off against transformation, shaped by individuality and a collective expression. We asked Sheetal Mallar and Subiksha Shivakumar to trade insights on the path to a successful—and sustainable—modelling career. Let their free-flowing conversations fuel your creative fire.

Making memories

Sheetal Mallar: I had a beautiful career and a great time. I learnt a lot about self-worth, confidence and how to handle fame. If you’re doing this for twenty years, it’s very important to remind yourself who you really are, where you come from and where you want to go.

Subiksha Shivakumar: Modelling takes work. There’s a lot when it comes to understanding emotions and understanding fashion, how a garment should flow and how you can make it look better with your expressions. You may be beautiful, but you still may not do justice to what an image could be.

Navigating a digital landscape

SS: Modelling felt exclusive and prestigious. It was harder to break into the industry back then. Now, with social media, I love how it’s brought in inclusivity and diversity, but it’s also made things feel more transactional. Decisions often seem to revolve around follower counts, which is smart marketing, but it sometimes takes away from the authenticity and artistry of fashion.

SM: I agree. Modelling used to be about the craft—the models, the clothes and the designers. You would have just one photo published in a newspaper the next day and that exclusivity made it special. Today, with instant uploads and live coverage, the magic is a bit diluted.

Handling criticism and preserving self-worth

SM: In the ’90s, the industry embraced different body types but stigmatised darker skin tones. I was dropped from major campaigns for being ‘too dark’. People often felt entitled to comment on everything right in front of you. Navigating and surviving the modelling business requires inner strength to still come out sane. I stayed grounded by separating my public persona from my true self, reminding myself that fame and appearances are fleeting. When faced with mean comments, I learnt to say, “If you don’t like it, don’t work with me.” That clarity helped me preserve my self-worth and stay true to myself.

Snowy scenery, moody florals and a nip in the air… there’s just something so romantic about winter. The tail end of the year in India is also synonymous with the wedding season. Just days ago, Ananya Panday, Khushi Kapoor, Vedang Raina, Orry, and a host of other stars made their way to the capital to celebrate a friend’s big day. In keeping with the frosty landscape, everyone pulled out their winter festive best. Panday stood out in an amber gold lehenga from the Rimple & Harpreet atelier.

Courtesy Rimple & Harpreet

For the occasion in New Delhi, Ananya Panday wore a rich, amber lehenga that celebrates suzani art. A centuries-old embroidery technique, ‘suzani’ translates to needle in Farsi. It emerged among the nomadic tribes of Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan, and carried blessings in each stitch. The motifs, too, had symbolism attached to it, illustrating elements of nature like the sun, moon, flowers, and vines, all representing luck, prosperity, and good health. Rimple & Harpreet has harnessed the ancient art for its ‘Firangi Mahal’ collection and transformed the artistry into lehengas, kurtas and saris.

Without her rebellious streak, Shaikh admits she would not have been half the player—or person—she is today. A trailblazing figure in women’s kho kho in India, in 2023, she became only the second player in the sport in the last 26 years to receive the Arjuna Award, one of the highest sporting honours in the country. For her successor, Ingle, the incumbent captain of the national team, the decision to stay the course with the game has blazed her path to self-actualisation. “When I started playing kho kho 15 years ago, the sport was far from a viable career option for women,” says the 24-year-old, an M.Com postgraduate by qualification. “Sports quotas for female kho kho players at governmental organisations and colleges and universities were next to non-existent.”

Like their sport itself, Ingle, Shaikh and Bhati have built their identities from the ground up. Besides socio-cultural taboos, they have battled economic adversities intrinsic to their modest backgrounds. Shaikh’s father sells utensils in the flea markets of New Delhi. Fellow Delhiite Bhati is the daughter of a truck driver. Ingle, who hails from Maharashtra, has seen her father do everything from farming to working odd jobs at factories. “Thanks to kho kho, all three of us now have jobs with the Indian government’s Income Tax Department,” says Shaikh, who recently bought her family their own brick-and-mortar house in Delhi with her earnings from kho kho. “Even the naysayers now take pride in us, our sport, and its practicalities… like shorts.”

Acutely aware of the race’s sexist history, Joshipura wanted, as a woman, to add another woman finisher’s name to the Boston Marathon’s history as much as enjoy it. “The Boston Marathon is truly a love story for me. I had turned 50, so it was a landmark year,” she recalls. Hospitalised in April 2021 for two months with long COVID, the designer left the hospital barely able to walk. “Boston is the Mecca for all running enthusiasts. It was the race I had started running for in the first place. So, I returned to training slowly and ran the pandemic-delayed Boston Marathon in October later that year,” Joshipura remembers with a smile. “For me to be running the same route that women fought to earn a place on the starting line holds a very special place in my heart. This is one race I’d definitely run again.”

The 54-year-old designer has also run plenty of races in India, including the half marathon at India’s oldest and biggest event, the Tata Mumbai Marathon, which she credits as the country’s flagbearer race that kicked off the running movement in India. “In the early days, there weren’t too many women running alongside me when I went out training. There are many more women running today but more work is needed to encourage women to take up running. From making women believe they can do it to ensuring better infrastructure and safety, steps should be taken to increase their participation,” Joshipura notes. Though she finds the running scene for women in India stronger today compared to when she started, women still make up only 19% of runners in India. But the statistics are not all discouraging. As per official numbers, the inaugural Tata Mumbai Marathon in 2004 had only 88 women register for the full marathon and 420 women for the half (21km). By contrast, for the 20th edition of the race on January 19, a whopping 15,711 women, including 1,203 for the 42.195km race and 2,631 for the 21km, have registered across various race distances and categories.

Malaika Arora’s style staple is far from a mystery. In a previous Vogue India interview the star revealed her closet comprises many variations, and her latest look is proof. A fine balance between edgy and classic is the best way to describe Malaika Arora‘s her pristine three-piece ecru pantsuit featuring a trailing coat.

Arora’s ensemble, from British designer Laura Green, was far from boxy or stiff but instead, had a soft, billowy quality with a cinched waist. Underneath, the waistcoat and long palazzo-like trousers make for the perfect co-ord set, capable of being worn sans the trench-like coat as well. To balance the look, Arora was styled in a pair of chunky ball studs, a stack of gold rings and the Medusa emblem necklace from Versace.

Previously as well, we’ve witnessed Malaika Arora in a scarlet red tailored design from Alexandre Vauthier, rounded-off with a necktie, a sleek bun, red nails and a generous offering of chunky gold jewels. In another offering, Arora opted for a Helen Anthony power-shoulder long coat over a crisp white shirt along with stack of oxidised jewels and a delectable brooch. Clearly, ’80s and ’90s reminiscent oversized-yet-tailored silhouettes feature often across Arora’ style references.

A Kurta intended for men changes to a celebration or traditional clothing, but in today’s fashion world, it has much more of an appearance than only a ceremonial garment. A Kurta transforms from formal festivals to casual visits and becomes a wearer expressive of cultural heritage and contemporary style. At wedding functions or Sunday brunch, each Kurta for Men passes for everyone.

This post shall lead you through various ways in which you can dress Kurta For Men. From festive occasions like Diwali to relaxed, everyday looks, how to make this traditional Indian clothing work for any setting. Update your seasonal wardrobe with the evergreen charm of Indian Dresses that are always keeping things fresh, stylish, and comfortable.

1. The Classic Festive Look: Perfect for Weddings and Celebrations

When it comes to festive occasions, a Mens Kurta is often the go-to choice. Accessorizing the traditional kurta gown only makes it appropriate for occasions such as weddings, religious celebrations, or family get-togethers. Putting a sumptuous kurta with some stylish churidars or straight-cut trousers provides an elegant silhouette that could work wonders in any formal event.

How to Style It:

• Fabric Choices: Choose silks, brocades, or velvets, among other royal materials rich enough to let you feel royal. 
• Colour Palette: Bright vibrant reds, blues, and even gold are perfect for a wedding. Conversely, off-white or cream could also serve well for a low-key function. 
• Accessories: You could add to your kurta a bold piece of jewelry, nice juttis, or a pocket square. 

Nothing beats the traditional kurta look for a wedding or jubilant festival celebration. The materials, vivid colors, and elegant accessories will help you slip into your best while honoring Indian tradition.

2. The Casual Chic Look: Day-to-Day Comfort with Style

The beauty of a Kurta For Men lies in its flexibility. It’s worn only on special occasions, but it can be converted into everyday clothing effortlessly. You could wear wearing to a casual gathering, to a day on the beach, or with friends hanging out in a very simple, expensively informal kurta, which will make you look cool without looking overdressed either.

How to Style It:

• Fabric Choices: Lightweight fabrics like cotton or linen are perfect for casual outings. They are breathable and comfortable, making them suitable for hot weather.
• Pairing with Pants: For a laid-back yet stylish look, pair your kurta with denim jeans, chinos, or even shorts for a more relaxed vibe.
• Footwear: A pair of loafers or slip-on shoes will keep things casual, while sneakers can add an extra touch of street-style flair.
• Minimal Accessories: Keep it simple with a leather strap watch or a cool bracelet. Avoid heavy jewelry to maintain a relaxed feel.

The key to styling your kurta for a casual look is balance. Choose breathable fabrics, simple cuts, and comfortable shoes, and you’ll be ready for whatever the day brings.

3. The Smart Casual Look: Merging Comfort and Elegance

When you want to look put together but not too formal, the smart-casual kurta look is perfect. It’s an excellent choice for brunches, casual dinners, or meetings where you want to make a good impression without overdoing it. This versatile Kurta For Men can work in a business casual environment or when you want to stand out without looking like you’re trying too hard.

How to Style It:

• Tailored Kurtas: Opt for a slim-fit or straight-cut kurta that doesn’t overwhelm your frame. A well-tailored kurta will give you a sharp look without the baggy feel.
• Fabrics: Light wool, cotton, or blends are perfect for smart casual occasions. These fabrics have a subtle sheen, adding an element of sophistication.
• Pair with Slim-Fit Pants: Slim-fit trousers or chinos will complement the kurta and give you a neat, polished appearance.
• Footwear: Moccasins, oxford shoes, or formal sandals will elevate the look, making you ready for almost any social gathering.

A smart-casual kurta strikes a perfect balance between looking professional and feeling relaxed. With the right styling, you can wear it to almost any casual event while still exuding an air of class.

4. The Indo-Western Look: Mixing Tradition with Contemporary Style

For those who like to mix tradition with a touch of modernity, the Indo-Western look is an absolute winner. This style has been growing in popularity among men who want to wear Indian Dresses but with a contemporary twist. The key to pulling off an Indo-Western kurta is to find a balance between traditional cuts and modern details.

How to Style It:

• Kurta Length: Opt for shorter kurtas that end just above the knee. This creates a modern, tunic-style look.
• Pairing with Jeans or Trousers: Pair your kurta with skinny jeans or tailored trousers for a chic look that is less formal than traditional attire but still stylish.
• Blazers and Jackets: Layer your kurta with a blazer or a Nehru jacket to bring out a more refined, contemporary aesthetic.
• Footwear: Loafers, brogues, or even a pair of sleek boots can enhance the modern vibe.

The Indo-Western Kurta For Men look is perfect for those who want to experiment with traditional attire while keeping things fresh and edgy. You can wear it to parties, festive gatherings, or even casual dates.

5. The Monochrome Look: Simplicity at Its Best

Sometimes, less is more. The monochrome look is all about pairing your Mens Kurta with matching bottoms and accessories to create a sleek, minimalist style. This look works wonders for both festive occasions and casual events when you want to keep things simple yet elegant.

How to Style It:

• Color Scheme: Stick to a single color palette. Classic options like all-white, all-black, or navy blue are foolproof and give off a sense of sophistication.
• Fabric Choice: Choose subtle, matte fabrics like cotton or linen that don’t distract from the simplicity of the look.
• Minimal Accessories: Avoid heavy jewelry or patterns. A simple watch and a pair of shoes that match your kurta’s color will complete the look.

The monochrome look exudes confidence, simplicity, and elegance, making it a go-to style for men who appreciate clean lines and understated sophistication.

6. The Layered Look: Creating Depth and Texture

The layered Kurta For Men look adds richness and dimension to your outfit, making it perfect for cooler seasons or events where you want to stand out. This look works especially well for winter weddings or evening events where you need to stay warm while still looking stylish.

How to Style It:

• Layering with a Jacket: Pair your kurta with a Nehru jacket, an embroidered shawl, or even a stylish leather jacket to add some texture to the outfit.
• Fabrics: Use thicker fabrics like wool or jacquard for the inner kurta, and layer it with a lighter material for the outer garment.
• Footwear: Boot-style shoes or traditional juttis will elevate the layered look, making it both chic and functional.

Layering adds depth and richness to a simple kurta, transforming it from a basic outfit into a statement ensemble.

7. The Traditional Look: A Nod to Heritage

Moreover, a particular aspect of general kurta items is everlasting. It always appears perfect even when donned casually; the kurta always appears very timeless at weddings and any other relevant and prominent occasions.

How to Style It:

• Straight-Cut or A-Line Kurtas: These are the most traditional options, offering a relaxed fit that is comfortable and timeless.
• Pairing with Dhoti or Churidar: A traditional dhoti or churidar will complete the look while maintaining the cultural authenticity of the outfit.
• Footwear: Traditional sandals or juttis add a nice final touch.

A traditional Kurta For Men keeps you grounded in your cultural heritage, making it a great choice for any formal or spiritual occasion.

Kurta for Men – The Versatile Staple Every Wardrobe Needs

 From weddings to casual evenings, from chic Indo-Westerns to traditional elegance, the Kurta For Men has come of age as one of the most versatile garments a man can own. At Nihal Fashions, we believe that every man should have a selection of kurtas to choose from in his wardrobe. Whether you’re embracing tradition or experimenting with modern styles, a kurta can fit into any occasion in a very seamless way.

The next time you want to think about the next thing to wear, give the humble kurta a thought. With the most suitable kind of styling, it can turn an ordinary look into something special. Do you wish to make something more useful from your wardrobe? Visit Nihal Fashions for the latest in Mens Kurta and Indian Dresses – where tradition meets style, comfort, and elegance.

In a career that spanned more than four decades, David Lynch, the director—who was also a musician, a visual artist, and an actor—established such a signature aesthetic that Lynchian became a shorthand adjective for things that were odd, disquieting, and, above all, dreamlike. It’s not at all surprising that over the years many fashion designers sought inspiration from his movies, like Blue Velvet, which starred Isabella Rossellini as a glamorous lounge singer, and Wild at Heart, with Laura Dern and Nicolas Cage playing a pair of young lovers on the run. But perhaps most enduring is Twin Peaks, a TV drama that was like a soap opera on acid and introduced the world to Agent Dale Cooper, played by Kyle MacLachlan, as he tried to find out who killed Laura Palmer.

An image of Laura Palmer on an Undercover Fall 2024 menswear jacket.

Vogue Runway

The Lynchian world runs so vast that the inspiration has manifested itself on the runway in myriad ways. Sometimes all a designer needs to do is cue up a specific song, as Rei Kawakubo did at the Comme des Garçons spring 2016 Blue Witch show when she played music from Blue Velvet or at the Creatures of the Wind spring 2017 show where designers Shane Gabier and Chris Peters invited the musician Julee Cruise to perform the theme song to Twin Peaks. “You can’t just do that to somebody! I cried through the entire show!” Caroline Polachek reportedly exclaimed afterwards.

This embellishment has been so successful that the Turkish label started affixing hardware to their footwear offerings as well. The duo believes it’s the “fusion of old-world charm and modern-day practicality” that draws in shoppers—including Taylor Swift, Kate Middleton, and Zoey Deutch—like moths to a flame. “Our belted buckle has been one of our signature details for quite a while now,” they said. “We were probably the very first ones [on] the belted-bag trend.”

The Birkin’s draw lies not only in its outlandish price point but also in its exclusivity. Most people can’t afford one, and even those who can might not be able to secure their design of choice. In this way, Manu Atelier and other brands like them provide a more democratic system for attaining the hero piece.

Addison Rae shows off the Miu Miu Aventure at the Miu Miu spring 2025 show in October 2024.

Jacopo M. Raule/Getty Images

Thus far, the great Birkinfication seems to be a lucrative business strategy, even for low-end retailers. At the end of 2024, the US retail chain Walmart went viral for its Birkin doppelganger—which the internet facetiously dubbed the Wirkin—selling out the handbag immediately. Meanwhile, the most sought-after collaboration of the last year came when Tibi added a men’s belt to L.L.Bean’s Boat and Tote and raised the price tenfold.

Likewise, luxury department stores are seeing new interest in buckled styles directly reminiscent of Jane Birkin’s famous bag. “Belted bags are a huge trend, especially in an elevated tote or satchel shapes,” says Marissa Galante Frank, fashion director of accessories and beauty at Bloomingdale’s. “The pace at which trends have been moving can be exhausting, and customers are looking to invest in timeless pieces they can wear season after season.”

Katie Holmes carries the Manu Atelier Le Cambon bag.

Photo Patricia Schlein/Star Max (Getty Images)

As a result, the retailer is now launching new belted-bag styles across all price points in order to meet demand. “DeMellier’s New York tote bag has been wildly popular,” Galante Frank says. “We have customers asking for DeMellier’s bags by name, and we continue to expand the assortment with different colours, textures, and sizes. It is practical enough for the office but sophisticated enough to wear out to dinner.”

The fabled bag has become fashion’s great unifier, transcending mere status symbol to become a yardstick for success. It’s the ultimate aspiration for billionaires and middle-class fashionistas alike who hope to one day claim one as their own. Until that day comes, however, these more affordable contemporaries exist to make that validation feel just a little bit more within reach.

Demellier Hudson tote bag

Mytheresa belted leather tote bag

Saint Laurent Manhattan bag

Are skinny pants making a comeback? The answer to that question is a resounding yes. If you have a few of them lying around from the 2010s, or planning to invest in one this year, there are ways to wear them that won’t make you look dated. Looking at the runways can help. From Off-White’s high-waisted options, and Sandy Liang’s cropped versions, to Acne Studios’ ruffled designs, here’s how to look at skinnies in a completely different light.

Bohemian skinny pants in earthy hues

Isabel Marant, spring-summer 2025

Peter White/Getty Images

Isabel Marant’s spring 2025 show showcased skinny pants—a style that has often faced criticism. They came in a rich, dark brown with unique embellishments, offering a chic alternative to the blue denim usually associated with the bohemian look of the 2000s. The slim-fitted pants, slightly dropped at the hips, felt modern and sophisticated. They looked refreshing paired with flowing blouses, tops with dramatic sleeves, or even crop tops.

Tailored skinny pants with a jacket

Acne studios, spring summer 2025

Stephane Cardinale – Corbis/Getty Images

Tailored skinnies are incredibly versatile, perfect for casual weekends and a long day at work. Swedish brand Acne Studios’ SS25 show seamlessly integrated this trend into a versatile collection, proving that you can look both stylish and sophisticated while adhering to dress codes. Setting them apart from ordinary trousers, the unique wrinkled effect at the hem added a touch of unexpected detail that is sure to make a striking statement in a sea of formal suits in a corporate setting.

High-waisted skinny pants in bold colours

Courtesy vogue.com
Off-white spring summer 2025

High-waisted pants are back in style, just like they were popular in the 2010s. Add a sung silhouette to add a modern twist to the classic skinny. Off-White recently showcased a design that seems to be inspired by Britney Spears’ iconic red latex suit from the ‘Oops!… I Did It Again’ music video. This spring, try pairing these modern red skinny pants with strappy heels and a sheer top.