Why India’s coolest grooms are dressing like they’re in a music video

For the longest time, Indian weddings have been all about the bride. From designer lehengas to statement jewellery, every detail of her outfit was planned down to the last sequin. The groom? He just had to show up in a sherwani that looked like every other sherwani ever worn—maybe with some embroidery, maybe in beige or pastel, and if he was feeling adventurous, a deep maroon. His job was simple: look nice, but not too nice. The bride was the star; the groom was the support act. But not anymore.

Today’s grooms are done playing it safe. They’re no longer dressing just to please their families or to look like an old-school Bollywood prince. They want to stand out, own their look, and turn their baraat entrance into an event. Beige is out. Bold colours, statement jewellery, and unexpected styling are in. Some look like rockstars, some like rappers, and some like they’ve just wrapped up an action film. But one thing is clear—boring grooms are officially a thing of the past.

The Rockstar Groom

This groom doesn’t believe in “less is more.” His sherwani isn’t in safe shades of gold or pastel—it’s black, burgundy, or deep navy in luxurious velvet. The embroidery is minimal, the fit is sharp, and the accessories do the talking. Chunky silver rings, stacked bracelets, layered chains—maybe even a bandana tied to his wrist. His hair is styled to look effortless (even though it took his stylist an hour), and his shoes—whether Chelsea boots, studded loafers, or statement sneakers—are made to stand out. His baraat is all about energy, with a live band, a drumline, or even a smoke machine. He’s not just arriving; he’s making an entrance.

The Bollywood Villain Groom

Heroes may win the battle, but villains always have the best wardrobes. This groom isn’t interested in looking like a “good boy.” He wants to own the room with a look that’s bold, dramatic, and just a little intimidating. His sherwani is black or in deep jewel tones—emerald green, dark wine—cut in a structured, military-inspired silhouette. No soft florals, no delicate embroidery—just sharp lines and powerful cuts. His accessories? Heavy gold chains, an oxidised silver brooch, a belt with a statement buckle. He’s the type to wear sunglasses indoors, smirk instead of smile, and take wedding photos where he looks like he’s about to pull off the heist of the century.

The Streetwear Groom

Tradition? He’s here to start his own. This groom loves sneakers, oversized fits, and high-fashion streetwear, and he sees no reason why his wedding should be any different. His sherwani might feature a bold graffiti print, asymmetric buttons, or even unexpected fabrics like denim or neoprene. His shoes? Definitely not mojris—think custom Air Jordans, Off-White sneakers, or Balenciaga kicks that cost as much as his venue. He pairs his outfit with a draped shawl, a printed bandana, or layered silver chains. His turban? Styled like it belongs on a fashion week runway, not at a mandap. The older guests might not get it, but he’s dressing for the photos, the reels, and the compliments that actually matter.

The Cowboy Groom

This groom looks like he should be riding into his wedding on horseback. He’s bringing Western-meets-Rajasthani energy with cowboy boots under his dhoti, a bandhgala with fringed detailing, and a belt buckle big enough to double as a shield. His sherwani is in earthy tones, crafted from raw silk, or embroidered with desert-inspired patterns. There’s even a chance he’s wearing a hat. His vibe? Laid-back but confident—less royal, more rugged. His baraat isn’t just dhols; it’s a fusion of folk and Western music, maybe even some country-style twang. He walks in like he’s got unfinished business, but the wedding is part of the plan.

The Rebel Royal Groom

Some grooms still love the grand, royal aesthetic, but they don’t want to look like every other prince. Their sherwanis are still tailored and traditional, but the colours are unexpected—emerald green, sapphire blue, rich plum, even metallic bronze. Their accessories are chosen carefully—pearl necklaces, antique brooches, or embroidered shawls draped just right. Their shoes? Handcrafted leather loafers or embroidered velvet slippers, not the usual gold mojris. They want a regal entrance, but in a way that feels fresh. Classic yet modern, subtle yet striking—the kind of look that makes people do a double take.

A few years ago, grooms didn’t have much to think about when it came to their wedding look. Pick a safe colour, get it embroidered, don’t outshine the bride. But wedding fashion has changed. Grooms are approaching their outfits the way they approach their Instagram feeds—thoughtfully, stylishly, and with an intent to impress. Some take inspiration from Bollywood, some from hip-hop, some from high fashion, and some from old-school Indian royalty. But the one thing they all have in common? They’re not blending in anymore. The era of beige grooms is over. Now, it’s all about making a statement.

Lead Image: Raghavendra Rathore 

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