These days, you'll see at least one man in a well-tailored kurta looking put-together, as you step into any wedding, festival or Friday, work-from-home scenario. It was no coincidence. In the end, the little kurta has become one of the most versatile clothes that a man can have — a perfect match for when he's at the cousin's sangeet as well as when he's at a casual brunch on a weekend.

However, there is a catch to it – not all kurtas are alike. Choose the wrong fabric, size or combination, and you end up appearing as though you were wearing your uncle's. If you get it right, you have a wardrobe classic for years that will last.

This article takes you through all the necessary information that you need to consider before purchasing your next kurta for men — fabric selection, right size, occasion wise selections, how to propose with a kurta, and the subtle details that make an average outfit look good.

What is a Kurta and why is it important?

A kurta is a loose-fitting tunic, which is either collarless (also known as mandarin-collar) or does not have a collar, and ranges from hip length to knee length, traditionally worn throughout South Asia. Easy to construct and the fabric, stitching and fit speak for themselves.

Today's kurta is not just for festive occasions. Brands have taken it up as a fabric for their everyday wear and lines that are less rigid – a good kurta for men can now be taken from a family function straight to a casual dinner.

Selecting the correct fabric is essential.The right fabric is important.

Most people make the wrong choice of fabric, the main reason being that they simply don't consider weather and occasion in the same equation.

Cotton

Comfortable to wear, easy to care for and comfortable on Indian summers. A cotton kurta is the most suitable garment for everyday use, it is ideal for working office casual days or any events during the day.

Linen

Just a tad more woven and refined than cotton, linen kurtas form crinkles but look like they were strung from a tree and "happened" to look the way they do – ideal for daytime weddings and garden events.

Silk and Silk-Blends

Only used during weddings, receptions and celebrations. The Silk Kurtas drape more gracefully, catch light aptly and really add a classy touch to the clothes but care needs to be taken about taking a care of them.

Rayon and Blended Fabrics

A compromise that's not too expensive, not too cheap. Rayon is similar to the way silk falls and is very popular for semi-formal occasions, at a lower price point and cost.

Tips and tricks: If you have to start with only one kurta, select a cotton or cotton blended fabric. It is the most flexible throughout the seasons and occasions.

Getting the Fit Right

Fit is the most important aspect — no matter how good the fabric is, it won't look good in the poorly fitted kurta.

The length of the shoulder seams should just meet your shoulder's natural shape and not go over it. Generally, length is mid-thigh for modern design, and knee-length for vintage style. There should be a good size of the sleeve to allow for easy arm movement without a lot of bagginess. The kurta must be loose enough to skim the body, and also look "relaxed", but not shapeless.

If it's a size in between, increase the size instead of decreasing. When the kurta is a little loose, it appears deliberative but if it's too tight, then it looks like a mistake was made.

True to its name, Kurta Pajama for Men is the classic combination.

Kurtas are becoming popular with men today when paired with jeans or trousers, but the traditional kurta pajama for men is the perfect outfit to wear during festivals, religious functions, and even the traditional ceremonies.

Straight Pajama

The most conventional of all is a straight cut pant that is as simple as the Kurta. Suggested for formal or religious events.

Churidar

A tight-fitting ankle-length pants that gives a sleek and tailored look. Ideal for longer kurtas for wedding or reception days.

Dhoti-Style Pajama

The more modern draped style which has become popular for men at fusion and festive events for a subtle different to the norm.

Matching tip: If you're looking for men's pajamas, the kurta pjama doesn't necessarily have to blend in exactly as it might be somewhat contrasting or tonal (for instance, a cream-colored kurta and a beige kurta) looks more thoughtfully put together than a pair of flat pajamas.

Different types of Kurta for different occasions

Festive Events and Weddings!

When it comes to kurtas, choose silk or silk blends that are darker shades: maroon, navy, mustard or deep green. Wear with a churidar or a well fitted up pantaloon or a Nehru jacket for a formal look.

Casual Day Wear

Short kurta – a cotton or linen cloth or piece, worn with chinos or jeans, is a comfortable and gaining popularity everyday outfit. Slightly roll the sleeves for a more relaxed look.

In an office or Semi-Formal Environment.

Friday dress downs or cultural events at work can be well executed with solid colored, fitted kurtas in muted colors (whites, greys, powder blue) and trousers.

Perform religious and family functions.Handle religious or family duties.

Go for traditional combinations like simple cotton/pyjamas or linen/pajamas, in light or neutral shades, which are always in style.

What not to do

But, a kurta with heavy embroidery on it looks out of place at a casual lunch while a kurta made out of plain cotton can be underwhelming at a wedding. Too short is like a shirt and too long can overpower shorter frames. Avoid wearing sandals, slippers or similar footwear when wearing traditional kurta and pants—mojaris or juttis combine nicely with traditional kurta.Traditional kurta pairing with pants goes well with mojaris or juttis, but loafers or sandals are better for casual kurta jeans style combinations. Over-accessorizing — one statement item is usually all that is needed, whether it's a jacket, a stole or a pocket square.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the ideal fabric for men's kurta in summer? For summer, cotton or linen is best as they are lightweight, breathable and sweat absorbent, compared to silk or heavier fabrics.

Is it OK to wear a kurta with jeans or a pajama? Yes. There is a popular and modern combination in brief kurta with well-fitted jeans, which becomes ideal for casual events even though it is not appropriate for formal or religious events.

The correct fit of kurta pajama for men is what? The kurta must not be tight or cling the body, the shoulder seams should be at the natural shoulder line and the pajama must be at the waist, should not be bundled at the ankles.

Which colour kurta is suitable for the majority of the occasions? Whites, creams and light pastel colors are the most flexible and work well in both holiday and everyday outfits, and will coordinate nicely with a variety of bottoms.

What is the number of kurtas a man should have? A basic wardrobe should consist of one kurta made out of cotton, for everyday wear or casual occasions, and a kurta that is either silk or silk-blend, for semi formals or special events, and a kurta in a festive style, made out of silk or a silk blend, for weddings and special occasions.

Final Thoughts

Traditionally, kurta is used for special occasions, but with the right fabric, fit and pairing, it has become a truly versatile item. Buy one stylish cotton kurta, fit the first one properly and expand from that according to the number of times you want to dress up.

Looking to add to your kurta wardrobe? Shop a variety of fabrics, fits and kurta pajamas for men for the right pieces to wear for the right events.

Which colour kurta is suitable for the majority of the occasions? Whites, creams and light pastel colors are the most flexible and work well in both holiday and everyday outfits, and will coordinate nicely with a variety of bottoms.

What is the number of kurtas a man should have? A basic wardrobe should consist of one kurta made out of cotton, for everyday wear or casual occasions, and a kurta that is either silk or silk-blend, for semi formals or special events, and a kurta in a festive style, made out of silk or a silk blend, for weddings and special occasions.