Rohit Gandhi and Rahul Khanna on Indian menswear and contemporary bridal fashion

In conversation with Brides Today, Rahul Khanna shares a peek into their design philosophy, delving into the evolving wardrobe of grooms and the art of layering.

Brides Today: For years, you’ve been consistently considered one of India’s top designers for menswear. In all these years, how have demands for men’s fashion changed? 

Rahul Khanna: In the past, women—wives, mothers or sisters—often took the initiative to shop for men. That was the landscape when we started menswear designing. But over the years, men have become significantly more fashion-conscious. Today, they are far more attuned to their personal style, body types and emerging fashion trends. While there was once a heavy reliance on Western fashion influences, Indian men are now carving out their own sartorial identities. They no longer just follow trends but create their unique style statements by combining pieces that resonate with their personality. It’s been incredible to witness and adapt to this journey of self-expression in menswear. 

BT: It’s been nearly 30 years since you founded your brand. Is this how you envisioned your sartorial journey, with myriads of learnings and milestones? 

RK: When we first started, we could never have imagined being where we are today. The journey has been one of excitement, surprises and immense growth, and we’re deeply grateful for how far we’ve come. Over the years, we’ve celebrated numerous milestones that are close to our hearts. Presenting at couture week for the first time was a landmark moment. Dressing international celebrities, such as Christina Milian, Freida Pinto, Joe Lo Truglio, Eric Winter, G-Eazy and Amanda Righetti, reinforced our place in the global fashion industry.

“Modern Indian silhouettes have a universal appeal—there isn’t a man who doesn’t look striking in a well-crafted Indian outfit”

Our designs also graced international stores like Selfridges and Bloomingdale’s and were showcased at fashion events in Paris, New York, Singapore and London. One of the greatest lessons we learned was the importance of creating a distinctive style. True success lies in developing a signature look that is instantly recognisable, even without a label. Staying true to our vision and producing designs that reflect our unique perspective has been key to our legacy. And looking back on the past three decades, we’re immensely proud of what we’ve achieved and excited to continue to evolve while staying committed to our core values as designers. 

BT: When we think of fashion for grooms, we think sherwanis, kurtas or a three-piece suit. How would you expand a groom’s wardrobe? 

RK: Tuxedos are a classic choice that can be refined in different ways, and bandhgalas come in various lengths. Draped looks are innovative and experimental. Layering plays a crucial role here. Trying out different types of safas or stoles, or mixing traditional South Indian and North Indian garments can add a refreshing twist to their wardrobe. Many now pair kurta-pyjamas with sneakers, which transforms the overall look and feel of the outfit. 

BT: What are the top styling tips you would share for grooms to look their best? 

RK: Comfort and individuality should take centre stage. On your sangeet, break away from tradition by swapping juttis for sneakers. Experiment with silhouettes. Draped kurtas, layered bandhgalas, or even deconstructed tuxedos with subtle Indian elements lend a contemporary edge to your wardrobe. Accessories like brooches, lapel pins, or even jewelled buttons can add personality; malas, statement kadas, or layered necklaces exude understated elegance. For a unique touch, explore fabrics like velvet, jacquard, or even sustainable weaves. Finally, don’t shy away from colour—jewel tones, muted pastels, or even monochrome in ivory or beige can make an unforgettable style statement.

BT: When one says contemporary Indian silhouettes for men and women, what do they mean?

RK: Contemporary Indian silhouettes have a universal appeal—there isn’t a man who doesn’t look striking in a well-crafted Indian outfit. They represent the perfect blend of tradition and modernity, like our classic sherwanis and traditional bandhgalas that have earned their place as red carpet staples both in India and internationally. Contemporary styling allows for innovations in fit, cut and length that make the look unique to the wearer. For instance, pairing a sharara pant with a traditional kurta offers a chic update for women, while hand-tied silk dhotis worn with an achkan or bandhgala create a sophisticated, regal choice for men. Small elements like carefully selected buttons further refine the overall look, reflecting the endless possibilities of modern Indian fashion. 

BT: Since venturing into womenswear, have you received requests from couples to design complementing RGRK outfits? What kind of requirements are specified in such cases? 

RK: Complementing outfits for couples has become a cherished trend. They are deeply invested in crafting a cohesive story through their attire today and want to align their looks in subtle, elegant ways—be it through complementary colour palettes, coordinated embellishments, or matching design motifs. More than just the outfits, it’s about creating memories that last a lifetime. Often, the journey begins with deeply personal heirlooms—women bring in jewellery passed down from their mothers, while men may present sherwani buttons or cufflinks inherited from their fathers. These sentimental elements become the foundation of the design process.

BT: What are the biggest trends you foresee for brides and grooms in 2025? 

RK: In 2025, I see a strong trend of layering the old with the new. Brides and grooms will increasingly incorporate pieces with sentimental value, such as fabrics or accessories passed down from their families, blending tradition with modern style. Colour-wise, the traditional reds and fuchsias are being replaced by softer, neo-neutral tones like khakis, beiges, and silver. These muted shades create a more refined, timeless aesthetic. We’re also seeing a rise in monochromatic looks that evoke a serene, sophisticated mood. Subtle shimmers in fabrics and delicate embellishments will continue to add an air of luxury. 

BT: For RGRK designs, what colours, cuts and fabrics do you find yourself usually veering towards? Please share your favourites. 

RK: For womenswear, we love working with mesh and organza as they offer the perfect balance of sheerness and matte finishes and create a two-dimensional look with a unique visual appeal. The delicate nature of these materials allows us to experiment with fluid, ethereal silhouettes. For menswear, we’re naturally inclined towards charcoal and monochromes, but cobalt blue has become a staple in our collections. It embodies sophistication and modernity and adds a bold yet timeless statement to our designs.

In terms of silhouettes, we’re seeing a shift towards more fitted, contemporary pieces for both men and women. Women are embracing more modern takes on lehengas, with the fish-cut lehenga being back in trend. Additionally, practical details like pockets and slits are making their way into bridalwear, adding functionality to their garments.

“For womenswear, we love working with mesh and organza. For men, we’re naturally inclined towards charcoal and monochromes”

BT: What’s the biggest challenge that the Indian fashion industry faces today?

RK: The biggest challenge is the industry’s unorganised nature. Many designers and manufacturers work independently, which can lead to inefficiencies. Additionally, there is little support from the government, which makes it harder for the industry to grow and compete globally. 

This article first appeared in Brides Today, January-March 2025 print edition.

Image credits: Rohit Gandhi + Rahul Khanna 

Also read: Best groom accessories to elevate your wedding-day look

Also read: Your dream honeymoon destination, based on your zodiac sign