• Personal style should be synonymous with comfort. You will never be able to pull off something you are not comfortable in.

 

•  Don’t blindly follow trends. A trend works only if it works for you.

 

• There are a few brands I love, but I am not necessarily religious about them. I always keep an eye out for interesting design trends and silhouettes. The price point is not as important as quality, cut, fit and comfort.

 

 

• I think we should always adhere to classics — but with a twist. It is no fun if you don’t play around with textures, elements and colours.

 

• I try to strike a fine balance between impulse and caution as a shopper.

 

• It is important to learn how to get your basics right. Learn how to tie a proper dress tie and bow-tie knots; how to differentiate different kinds of shoes and how to take care of them; and how to fold a pocket square for different styles of jackets.

 

 

• Get your clothes tailored, because off-the-rack will never fit as well. A man’s relationship with his tailor is quite an important one.

 

• Invest in Indian wear as much as — if not more — than the usual western formals. A good bandhgala is much smarter than a suit. Just look at the country’s royals. Try out kurtas instead of polo tees. They are more comfortable and will help you stand out.

 

• Play with accessories. Sunglasses, wristbands, some simple cords around the neck, ties and socks. They are a fantastic extension of your personality.

 

• Understand clothing lengths and work them correctly. Don’t pair a longline shirt with a longline jacket. Check online and see what people are doing for style inspiration.

 

• Don’t be edgy or push boundaries just for the heck of it, but always try to add a little bit of yourself in your outfit, because that will help you own the look.

 

 

• Your wardrobe should definitely have a black kurta, a pair of classic blue jeans that fit well, wacky socks and a good linen shirt.

 

• Explore your fragrance identity and stick to it. A man is remembered by how he smells.

 

•  If you are following the beard trend, make sure you groom yourself. Unkempt beards are not sexy.

 

• Indian men should shop according to their tummy sizes. If you have a wide equator, buy shirts that accommodate the same. No one likes to see buttons stretching to their deaths.

 

Photography: Ankita Nevrekar

Hair & Makeup: Rachana Gupta