Kolkata, the cultural capital of India, is not just popular for its delectable Bengali food, but also for its quintessential fashion and sense of styling. Taking a stroll around the narrow lanes of the erstwhile capital of India can offer a graphic portrayal of raw Bengali fashion.
As misleadingly depicted in mainstream media, Bengali fashion does not mean men with long, untamed hair, shabby clothes and red bordered, white saree-wrapped women. Rather, Bongs have an extraordinary and unique fashion sense which make them look different from the rest of the Indian population. Chic, classic, uber-cool, and idiosyncratic – fashion in Bengal has always inspired the rest of the world, especially Bollywood.
Why should girls have all the fun?
Bengali girls are depicted as gorgeous and poised. TV serials, commercials and Bollywood have hyped them up to a great extent. From their large eyes to lush black hair, from their sarees to dusky glowing skin tone, every single thing has been showcased remarkably well in mainstream media. But have you ever wondered why a Bengali guy does not get enough attention?
Men in West Bengal have always been overshadowed by their female counterparts in terms of appearance and fashion. Movies, magazines, advertisements and daily soaps have never paid attention to Bengali men. They have always been ignored purposefully because the glamour world always loves to objectify females.
Now is the high time that men too, get the attention that they deserve. Their culture, education, fashion and demeanour are of world-class stature, and in this blog, we aim at highlighting the charm of all the Bengali men out there.
They dress, but not to impress!
Traditional attires
Men in Kolkata are famous for their traditional looks. Be it Durga Pooja, Poila Boishakh, Kali Pooja, Jamai Shoshthi or any other occasion, men in Kolkata dress up with ultimate sophistication. Want to witness their composure, aesthetic appeal and ultimate class? Try visiting Kolkata this Durga Pooja.
Here’s a glimpse of what they wear to make you weak on your knees!
- Dhoti-Panjabi: Interestingly enough, the kurta is known as “Panjabi” in Bengal. Men here prefer to wear exquisite “Panjabis” paired with silk or cotton dhotis on traditional occasions. These kurtas differ from North Indian kurtas in terms of authentic Bengali fabrics, such as muga silk, tussar silk or cotton silk. These kurtas are covered with exquisite embroideries around the neckline or buttonholes. Garad Silk kurtas are extremely popular among Bengali men.
- Kurta- Pajama: Men in Kolkata know the art of blending western with eastern attires. So, their favourite fusion wear is to flaunt vibrant kurtas with trousers or jeans. The kurtas can either be of silk or cotton. And not to forget, Batik print is their favourite.
- Complete suit: Men in West Bengal look extremely dapper when they flaunt their branded suits in family get-togethers, business functions etc.
Casual outfits
Whether a Bengali guy is going out on a date, or to hang out with friends, or simply to college, their casual outfits can give fashion influencers a run for their money.
- Jeans and tee-shirt: College and school going boys generally prefer wearing comfortable tees and a pair of jeans. Since it is a hot and humid place, wearing light-weight, breathable tees is quite common in Kolkata.
- Shirt and jeans: Even in their office days, Bengali men can never give up on their love for denim. Donex is a popular brand in Kolkata, and boys and men can be seen flaunting Donex jeans on dates, night outs, parties etc.
- Tee shirt and shorts: On a lazy Sunday morning, you can see men in their tee-shirts and shorts, having a satiating breakfast, all the while discussing their favourite football team or elections vehemently.
Wrapping up
Bengali women are definitely the epitome of beauty. But men are not far behind. They have already started creating ripples in the fashion industry with their unique fashion ideas. Soon, they will be dominating the modelling industry just like their North Indian counterparts. Bengali men, after all, have that much-needed body language, attitude and a flamboyant character.