What to Wear Under a Sherwani

What you wear under a sherwani shapes comfort, structure, and how regal the outfit looks in photos. Focus on three layers: inner base, kurta, and bottoms, then add optional mid‑layers for style and warmth.

Ideal Inner Layer (Base)

  • Light cotton vest or baniyan

    • Absorbs sweat and prevents the sherwani from staining or smelling during long events.​

    • Choose a snug, seamless fit with thin straps so it does not show through light fabrics.​

  • Optional inner kurta

    • A thin, neutral‑coloured kurta works well under sheer or heavily embroidered sherwanis to prevent itching and transparency.​

    • Skip this extra layer in hot weather or if the sherwani fabric is already thick and fully lined.

sherwani layering

Kurta Styles Under a Sherwani

Straight-Cut Kurta

The straight-cut kurta offers a clean, tailored silhouette that aligns perfectly under a sherwani, falling to just above the knee without excess volume. This style provides a smooth base layer, ensuring the sherwani’s structured front and hem drape elegantly without bunching or adding bulk. Ideal for formal weddings, it enhances a slim, regal profile and pairs seamlessly with churidar or straight pants for balanced proportions.

Anarkali Kurta

An Anarkali kurta brings subtle flair with its flared hem and fitted bodice, creating gentle movement that complements the sherwani’s length while adding a touch of traditional drama. Typically longer and more flowing than straight cuts, it works well under lighter or asymmetrical sherwanis, offering comfort through its breathable fabrics like cotton-silk blends. This option suits grooms seeking a blend of classic poise and soft elegance, especially for evening receptions or layered looks with shawls.

kurta style

Bottoms: What to Wear on the Lower Half

  • Churidar

    • The classic choice: fitted through the leg with gathers at the ankle, perfect for traditional and slim‑fit sherwanis.​

    • Best for slimmer or athletic builds and for very formal wedding pheras or nikah ceremonies.​

  • Pajama / straight pants

    • Looser and more relaxed, making them comfortable for long events and dancing.​

    • Pair with airy, classic sherwanis in silk or cotton for a softer, old‑world royal vibe.​

  • Trousers or cigarette pants

    • Tailored trousers or narrow cigarette pants give a sharp Indo‑Western edge, ideal with velvet or jamawar sherwanis.​

    • Perfect for receptions, sangeets, and grooms who like a modern, structured silhouette.​

types of sherwani pants

Extra Layering: Vests, Jackets, and Shawls

  • Nehru jacket or waistcoat

    • A structured waistcoat or Nehru jacket over the kurta (and under or over the sherwani, depending on design) adds depth and formality.​

    • Use contrasting colours or richer fabrics like brocade or velvet to create a multi‑dimensional groom look.​

  • Bandhgala or short jacket

    • Short bandhgalas add a royal, tailored finish, especially for winter or evening events.​

    • Keep the sherwani length and jacket length balanced so the layers do not visually cut your height.​

  • Shawls and stoles

    • Silk, pashmina, or embroidered wool shawls draped over one shoulder or wrapped around the neck add warmth and regal drama.​

    • Choose colours that complement, not clash with, the sherwani and kurta, for a cohesive look in photos

sherwani king

Choosing what to wear under a sherwani is ultimately about balancing comfort, structure, and style so the outer look feels effortless from ceremony to dance floor. When the right inner vest, kurta cut, and bottoms work together, they not only support the sherwani’s royal silhouette but also keep you cool, confident, and photo-ready through every ritual. By investing in quality fabrics, thoughtful layering, and a silhouette that suits your body type and wedding setting, you turn your sherwani from just an outfit into a personalised groom statement. Explore premium groom looks and perfectly coordinated inner layers at Sherwani King.

Menu