As the summer wedding and festival season begins, traditional menswear is undergoing a shift. For the modern South Asian man in the UK, heavy, restrictive clothing is out. Instead, this season is all about balance—combining rich cultural heritage with lightweight fabrics, clean lines, and minimalist styles.
Here are the top trends and styling tips for wearing contemporary kurta sets this summer.
1. Soft Pastels & Earthy Neutrals
Step away from dark jewel tones and opt for fresh, airy colors perfect for daytime ceremonies and outdoor venues:
- Muted Sage & Olive: Sophisticated green tones that look great in natural light.
- Warm Terracotta & Sand: Earthy tones that bring a subtle warmth.
- Ivory & Cream: Timeless, clean options that serve as a perfect base.
2. Lightweight, Breathable Fabrics
Comfort is key for summer events. Avoid synthetics and prioritize high-quality natural blends:
- Cotton-Silk Blends: Offers a refined sheen and structural drape while remaining highly breathable.
- Textured Slub Cottons: Provides a rich, textured finish without needing heavy, uncomfortable embroidery.
3. Minimalist Details
Modern ethnic design finds beauty in restraint. Look for clean aesthetics:
- Concealed Plackets: Hidden buttons for a clean, architectural front.
- Tonal Stitching: Subtle embroidery in the same color as the fabric.
- Structured Mandarin Collars: Keeps the neckline looking sharp and tailored.
4. Elevating with Nehru Jackets
To transition your kurta set from semi-formal to formal, layer it with a classic Nehru jacket:
- Contrast styling: Pair a solid neutral kurta with a textured or subtly patterned jacket.
- Monochrome layering: Pair a sage jacket over an olive kurta for a refined, modern tone-on-tone look.
Complete the Look
Pair your modern kurta set with sleek leather loafers or suede mules instead of traditional curled shoes. Keep accessories minimal—a classic analog watch and a coordinating pocket square are all you need.
Discover Citta
At Citta, we create contemporary Indian menswear designed for comfort, style, and the UK climate.
Explore our signature Nehru Jackets, in the Arya Collection, layering essentials to find your look this season.