The Sherwani Collar: A Guide to Enhancing Your Ethnic Style

Adorned by Indian grooms and dignitaries alike, the sherwani collar is an integral part of traditional Indian attire. With its intricate designs and elegant silhouettes, this collar adds a touch of royalty and sophistication to any ensemble. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the world of sherwani collars, exploring their history, designs, and the perfect pairings for your special occasion.

The Rich History of the Sherwani Collar

Dating back centuries, the sherwani collar has evolved alongside the garment itself. Its origins can be traced to the Mughal era, where it was a symbol of power and prestige. Over time, the collar underwent modifications, taking inspiration from various cultural influences, including Persian, Rajput, and British. Today, the sherwani collar stands as a testament to India's rich cultural heritage.

Designs That Captivate

The sherwani collar comes in a myriad of captivating designs, each with its unique charm:

• Mandarin Collar: Inspired by Chinese attire, the Mandarin collar is characterized by its closed, rounded neckline. It exudes a sense of elegance and simplicity, perfect for modern sherwanis.

• Nehru Collar: Named after former Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, this collar features a distinctive asymmetrical button-down closure. It adds a touch of contemporary style to traditional sherwanis.

• Bandgala Collar: The Bandgala collar is a high, closed collar with a button-down closure. Its sleek lines and sharp angles lend a formal and sophisticated air.

• Embroidered Collar: For those seeking a touch of grandeur, embroidered collars are a stunning choice. Intricate designs, often featuring gold or silver thread, embellish the collar, creating a mesmerizing visual display.

Perfect Pairings for Every Occasion

The versatility of the sherwani collar allows it to complement various sherwani styles and occasions:

Formal Sherwanis: For grand events like weddings, choose a sherwani with a high-collared, embroidered collar to exude an aura of regal elegance.

Semi-Formal Sherwanis: For less formal occasions, a sherwani with a Mandarin or Nehru collar is a perfect fit. These collars provide a sophisticated touch without being overpowering.

Casual Sherwanis: For casual outings, a sherwani with a simple, closed collar is an ideal choice. It offers a relaxed yet stylish look.

Stories from the Threads

• The Maharaja's Extravagant Collar: Legend has it that Maharaja Ranjit Singh of Punjab once wore a sherwani with a collar encrusted with over 5,000 precious gemstones. The splendor of the collar left an everlasting mark on Indian fashion history.

• The Groom's Timeless Choice: For centuries, the sherwani collar has been an indispensable part of a groom's attire. It symbolizes his transformation from a bachelor into a married man, adding an element of tradition and sentimentality to the occasion.

• The Bollywood Influence: The sherwani collar has found its way into the glitz and glamour of Bollywood films. Bollywood icons like Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan have sported stylish sherwanis with striking collars, inspiring millions of fans.

Choosing the Right Sherwani Collar

Selecting the right sherwani collar is crucial to complement your body type and personal style:

• For Broad Shoulders: A Mandarin collar or Nehru collar with a wide opening can balance out broad shoulders.

  

• For Narrow Shoulders: A Bandgala collar or a high, embroidered collar can create an illusion of broader shoulders.

• For a Long Neck: A Mandarin collar or closed collar will accentuate the length of your neck.

• For a Short Neck: A Nehru collar or open collar will create the illusion of a longer neck.

Embracing the Modern Sherwani Collar

While traditional sherwani collars remain popular, modern designers are pushing the boundaries with innovative collar designs:

• Asymmetrical Collars: Collars with uneven edges or unusual shapes add a touch of contemporary flair to sherwanis.

• Layered Collars: Collars with multiple layers create a sophisticated and eye-catching look.

• Contrasting Collars: Collars in contrasting colors or fabrics add a bold statement to otherwise traditional sherwanis.

Tips for Styling a Sherwani Collar

• Accessorize with a pocket square or brooch to enhance the collar's visual appeal.
• Choose a collar that complements the embroidery or embellishments on the sherwani.
• Ensure that the collar fits snugly around your neck, without being too tight or loose.
• Consider the occasion and your personal style when selecting a collar design.

Conclusion

The sherwani collar is an integral part of traditional Indian attire, adding an aura of elegance, sophistication, and cultural significance to any ensemble. From the grandest weddings to casual outings, there's a sherwani collar to suit every occasion. By understanding the history, designs, and styling tips associated with the sherwani collar, you can confidently embrace this iconic garment and elevate your ethnic style to new heights.