Four designers on how men can give their suit & tie a makeover

By Rachana Nakra

When it comes to fashion in the boardroom, most Indian men like to keep it safe, dull and positively square. No sudden bursts of colour or quirky flourishes. The mantra, it would appear, is to blend in rather than stand out. How can men break free of the style stalemate? Four leading fashion designers show you the way.

Do not be afraid of colour: Hemant Sagar

According to Hemant Sagar of fashion label Lecoanet Hemant, although Indian men pull out all stops for special occasions, they clam up sartorially if it’s a regular day out. “Men should try more colour in their casual choices, especially with T-shirts and trousers. Try trousers in oxblood, green or blue,” he suggests.

Jazz up the details: Troy Costa

Even if you are wearing the same kind of suits every day, add some edgy detailing. “Wear textured shirts and self-embossed or textured pocket squares,” he says. He also suggests coloured socks or those with argyle prints. He often adds stitches (in different colours) on the surface of jackets. “Those who wear ties should try tie rods and collar clips. They add character.”

Put your best foot forward: Ravi Bajaj

Dress depending on your personality and not profession. “I know doctors who dress flamboyantly,” he says. According to him, the right footwear goes a long way. Like a pair of double monk-strap shoes in tan or walnut brown. “It doesn’t matter which colour or type of suit you wear, monk-strap shoes always look good."

Desi is a safe bet: Arjun Khanna

Most Indian men prefer to experiment with traditional clothes. “If I suggest a lemon-coloured linen suit, they shy away. But when it comes to Indian wear, they don’t mind flashy colours or embroidery in gold,” says Khanna. He suggests sticking to bandhgalas and Nehru jackets for occasions. “And try black on black or navy on navy embroidery.”