Traditionally, the concept of a trousseau has been synonymous with brides, filled with sentimental and practical items for the big day and beyond. But what about the modern groom? It's time to flip the script and embrace the opportunity to craft a killer collection of clothes and accessories. After all, who doesn’t love an excuse to shop?
Wardrobe staples: The essentials
For celebrity stylist Isha Bhansali, the essentials in a man's trousseau are clear: "A classic kurta pajama set, luxury formal shoes, a timeless tuxedo, a sophisticated watch and a high-quality grooming kit." Fellow stylist Rahul Vijay insists on including a bandhgala—tailored to perfection, of course. "A custom-made bandhgala can be paired with jodhpur pants or trousers and repurposed for other events with a simple change of buttons," he says. Vijay also suggests that investing in a sherwani or achkan can turn these garments into heirloom pieces, perfect for future special occasions. It's all about fashion math—spending wisely now means you can re-wear and repurpose your outfits, mixing a kurta with jeans for a casual look.
Footwear: Step up your game
When it comes to footwear, Bhansali champions the classics—think sleek Oxfords, brogues and well-heeled loafers. A wedding is the perfect excuse to invest in a truly well-constructed pair of shoes—after all, you’re going to be on your feet for hours. Don't forget to round out your shoe collection with some sharp sneakers—pristine white or versatile blue kicks are perfect for various outfits. For daytime events like brunch or a mehendi, a pair of leather sandals or canvas slip-ons and boat shoes are comfortable options.
Accessorising: The finishing touch
Accessories are another area where you can really shine. While platinum or gold cufflinks are timeless, switch things up by adding some off-the-beat pieces. “Look for unique pieces like pendants, brooches, or even ear studs—a little sparkle can go a long way,” says Bhansali.
Building your trousseau isn't just about clothes and accessories—it's also the perfect time to elevate your grooming game. Invest in a signature fragrance that will remind you of your big day or a classic watch that can be passed down as a family heirloom.
After the wedding, Bhansali suggests pre-planning your honeymoon outfits so you can focus on enjoying your post-wedding bliss. Vijay's final piece of advice? "Stick to your personal style—it's your wedding day, after all. It’s easy to lose sight of what you like. So don’t follow trends blindly, and don't let others sway your choices."
