STORIES BY MANYAVAR & MOHEY

Man wearing a kurta pajama with a Modi jacket

Lifestyle

Styling Tips for Wearing a Modi Jacket with Kurta for Celebrations

Date 20 May 2025 Reading time: 7-10 mins

Bro, let's be real, when it's celebration time, "normal" won't cut it. You gotta bring your A-game. And nothing says dapper like a well-styled Modi jacket with a classy kurta. This combo is the key to making jaws drop at every shaadi, sangeet, and festival you grace with your presence. But hold up, before you go raiding your dad's closet, let's dive into the art of nailing the Modi jacket kurta combo. Ready to up your festive style game?

Why Choose a Modi Jacket with Kurta for Celebrations

When it's time to celebrate, you gotta dress to impress. And nothing screams "I've arrived" like a dashing Modi jacket with kurta combination. Whether you're attending a big fat Indian wedding or a low-key festival, a well-fitted Modi jacket kurta combo will have you looking like a million bucks. It's the perfect balance of classic charm and modern swag.

But the best part? Versatility! Modi jackets can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. Opt for a richly embroidered one for a lavish wedding, or keep it simple with a plain, well-tailored piece for a casual festive gathering. No matter how you style it, a Modi jacket is a surefire way to make a fashion statement.

Understanding the Modi Jacket with Kurta Combo

A Modi jacket, also known as a Nehru jacket or bandh gala, is a hip-length coat with a stand-up collar and a button-down front. It's a modern twist on the classic Indian achkan or sherwani.

A kurta, as you probably know, is a loose, collarless shirt that falls somewhere between the knees and ankles. It's a staple in every desi man's wardrobe.

Together, the Modi jacket with kurta creates a look that's equal parts regal and laid-back. It's the perfect balance for any celebration where you want to look sharp without feeling stuffy.

Selecting the Perfect Modi Jacket

For a classic look, go for a plain, solid-coloured jacket in a neutral shade like black, navy, or beige. These timeless hues work well with most kurtas and are appropriate for any celebratory event.
Feeling a little bold? A jacquard or velvet Modi jacket can add a touch of opulence to your ensemble without going overboard.
And if you really want to make a statement, go all out with a brightly coloured or heavily embellished jacket. Just make sure to balance it out with a more subdued kurta.

Choosing the Right Kurta

Fabric: When selecting a kurta for men, opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen for daytime events and richer materials like silk or velvet for evening soirees.
Colour: Choose a kurta in a complementary or contrasting colour to your Modi jacket. For example, a white kurta looks dashing with a black jacket, while a deep maroon kurta pairs well with a gold-toned jacket.
Length: Make sure your kurta is the right length—it should fall somewhere between your knees and ankles. Anything too short or too long can throw off the proportions of your outfit.
Style: Consider the style of your kurta—do you want a simple, straight-cut one or something with a bit more flair, like a flared or asymmetrical hem? Pick a style that suits your body type and personal taste.

Wearing Modi Jacket for Different Events

Weddings

For a wedding, go all out with your Modi jacket game. Choose a richly embellished jacket in a luxurious fabric like silk or velvet. Opt for colours like gold, maroon, or royal blue to make a bold statement. Pair it with a matching or complementary kurta and churidar, and accessorise with a regal pocket square and juttis.

Festive Occasions

For festivals like Diwali or Ganesh Chaturthi, choose a Modi jacket in a bright, festive hue like yellow, orange, or teal. You can opt for a jacket with subtle embroidery or mirror work for a touch of sparkle. Pair it with a simple kurta in a contrasting colour and comfortable mojris or kolhapuris.

Casual Gatherings

For a laid-back event like a family dinner or a casual party, keep your Modi jacket kurta combo relaxed and fuss-free. Choose a lightweight, unembellished jacket in a neutral colour like beige or grey. Pair it with a printed or lightly embroidered kurta and loose-fitting pyjamas or salwars. Finish off the look with minimalist accessories and loafers.

Festive Modi Jacket Styles

Contemporary Festive Styles

Asymmetrical: Give your Modi jacket a modern twist with an asymmetrical hemline or an off-centre front opening. This edgy style is perfect for fashion-forward gents who want to stand out from the crowd.
Longline: Opt for a longer-length Modi jacket that falls below the hips for a more relaxed, bohemian vibe. This style pairs well with loose-fitting kurtas and salwars for a laid-back festive look.
Printed: Make a bold statement with a printed Modi jacket in a quirky pattern like florals, geometrics, or abstract designs. Keep the rest of your outfit simple to let the jacket shine.

Traditional Festive Styles

Zardozi: Nothing screams "festive" like a heavy zardozi-embroidered Modi jacket. Opt for intricate gold or silver thread work on a rich, dark-coloured base for a look that's fit for royalty.
Bandhani: Add a touch of Rajasthani charm to your festive look with a Modi jacket in a vibrant bandhani print. Pair it with a solid-coloured kurta and dhoti pants for an authentic, traditional vibe.
Brocade: A brocade Modi jacket in a classic pattern like paisleys or florals is a timeless choice for any celebration. Choose one in a rich, festive hue like maroon or emerald green for maximum impact.