The History of Sherwani: How This Royal Outfit Became India's Festive Favourite

The Origin and Evolution of Sherwani

The origin of sherwani dates back to the 19th century when the British were ruling India. It evolved from the Persian chogha, a long coat worn by Turkish and Persian nobles in the Mughal courts. Over time, this coat was given a more Indian twist, such as the angarkha style, and finally developed into the sherwani we know today, with a front-buttoned design inspired by European fashion.

Initially, the sherwani was a status symbol, worn mainly by Muslim aristocrats and royalty. But by the end of the 18th century, it had won the hearts of the general population too. Lucknow, in particular, played a significant role in popularising the sherwani in the 1820s. From there, it spread to the rest of the Indian subcontinent, becoming the go-to choice for formal and festive occasions.

• The Hyderabadi sherwani, for instance, is known for its intricate zardozi embroidery and elaborate designs. It often features a high collar and is made of rich fabrics like silk or velvet.
• The Lucknowi sherwani, on the other hand, is famous for its delicate chikankari work and pastel shades. It has a more subtle elegance compared to its Hyderabadi counterpart.
• Rajasthani sherwanis often sport vibrant colours, mirror work, and traditional block prints, reflecting the state's rich craft heritage.

These regional variations not only added diversity to sherwani designs but also made the garment a canvas for showcasing India's cultural richness.

The Transition from Traditional to Modern Sherwani Designs

Over the years, as fashion evolved, so did the sherwani. While it retained its royal essence, it also adapted to changing times and tastes. The sherwani origin can be traced back to Central Asia, where it was traditionally worn by nobility and royals. Today, you can find sherwanis in a range of styles, from classic to contemporary.

• Designers have experimented with innovative cuts, such as asymmetric hemlines and fusion silhouettes.
• The use of lighter fabrics like linen and cotton has made sherwanis more comfortable to wear in the Indian climate.
• Unconventional colour palettes, like pastels and jewel tones, have given a fresh spin to this timeless attire.

However, even with all these modern tweaks, the sherwani remains true to its roots. It still exudes an air of elegance and grandeur that's hard to match. Whether you opt for a timeless ivory piece or a trendy printed one, a well-crafted sherwani is sure to make you feel like royalty.

The Latest Sherwani Design Trends

So, what are the new sherwani designs for males right now? Let's take a look at some of the latest trends that are ruling the festive fashion scene.

Influence of Bollywood on Latest Sherwani Design

Bollywood has always been a major influencer when it comes to Indian fashion, and sherwanis are no exception. From Ranveer Singh's flamboyant floral numbers to Shahid Kapoor's sleek monochromatic looks, celebrity wedding styles often set the tone for sherwani trends.

In recent years, we've seen a lot of experimentation with:

• Floral Prints: Bold botanical motifs are having a moment, adding a playful touch to the classic sherwani.
• Tone-on-Tone Embroidery: Subtle, tone-on-tone thread work creates a rich texture without being over-the-top.
• Layered Looks: Sherwanis paired with long jackets or capes create a regal, layered silhouette.

Many of these celebrity-inspired trends have trickled down to mainstream fashion, with brands like Manyavar offering a wide range of stylish sherwanis for the modern man.