The Bandhgala (or Jodhpuri suit) is the Swiss Army knife of Indian menswear. It commands the respect of a tuxedo but carries the swagger of a rock star. Yet, too many men treat it as a "wedding only" uniform, locking it away in a garment bag for 360 days a year.
This is a mistake. The Bandhgala is arguably the most flattering garment a man can own—its high collar elongates the neck, and its structured chest builds a silhouette of power. As a specialist in bespoke Bandhgalas, Arjun Khanna has always advocated for breaking the rules.
Here is how to take your Bandhgala from the altar to the after-party.
1. The "Old Money" Aesthetic (Breeches)
The Vibe: Vintage Royalty. The Look: Pair a structured, velvet Bandhgala with traditional Jodhpur breeches. Editor’s Tip: This is not a costume. The key is the fit of the breeches—they should be voluminous at the thigh and skin-tight from the calf down. Finish with polished Chelsea boots or double-monks. This is the ultimate men's wedding reception outfit when you want to stand out from the sea of standard suits.
2. The High-Low Mix (Denim)
The Vibe: Off-duty Rock Star. The Look: Take your heavy, embroidered Bandhgala jacket and pair it with high-quality, distressed denim. Editor’s Tip: Keep the jacket unbuttoned at the top. Wear a charcoal crew-neck T-shirt underneath instead of a shirt. This juxtaposition of regal velvet against rugged denim is pure Arjun Khanna DNA.
3. The Summer Deconstruction (Open Jacket)
The Vibe: Bohemian Luxe. The Look: A linen or cotton Bandhgala worn completely unbuttoned over a longline kurta. Editor’s Tip: This turns the formal jacket into a structured layer. It’s perfect for a Sangeet or a summer cocktail party where a full suit feels too stuffy.
4. The Broken Suit (Separates)
The Vibe: Pitti Uomo Swagger. The Look: Treat the Bandhgala jacket as a blazer. Pair a black jacket with grey flannel trousers or white chinos. Editor’s Tip: This is the easiest way to get more ROI from your wardrobe. A black velvet Bandhgala jacket with grey trousers is appropriate for almost any formal dinner or black-tie event.
5. The Winter Scarf (Drapery)
The Vibe: The Artist. The Look: Drape a printed silk scarf or a Pashmina shawl over one shoulder, tucked under the epaulette. Editor’s Tip: It adds softness to the military rigidity of the collar. Great for winter weddings in Delhi or Rajasthan.
6. The Sneaker Drop (Streetwear)
The Vibe: Gen Z approved. The Look: A slim-cut Bandhgala, slim trousers (no break at the hem), and pristine white luxury sneakers. Editor’s Tip: Confidence is the only accessory you need here. Ensure the trousers are hemmed short enough to show the entire shoe. It’s modern, sharp, and incredibly comfortable.
