Kunal Rawal is the rule-breaker who made Indian menswear cool, comfortable, and covetable. Known for his deconstructed layers and laid-back elegance, Rawal brings a fresh edge to wedding couture. His designs—think lungi pants, cropped jackets, and versatile layers—are for the groom who wants to look sharp without feeling stiff. Think layers that don't scream ‘ceremony’ but whisper ‘celebration’, ensuring you can bust those baraat moves without busting a seam.
What according to you are three essential elements when it comes to Indian wedding wear for men?
Luxury, style, and individuality. First and foremost, it’s all about the fit. Tailoring is where the artistry begins—there’s nothing quite like the confidence that comes from wearing something precisely made to your body. True couture is the embodiment of comfort and precision, allowing you to move seamlessly from one celebration to the next, all while feeling effortless.
The second essential is footwear—often an overlooked detail, yet it can transform an entire look. The right pair of shoes is not just about completing the outfit but adding depth and character. Lastly, one of the most exciting aspects of contemporary Indian wedding couture for men is jewellery. It is no longer reserved just for women; it’s become a statement of power, personality, and heritage for men too. Whether it's a bold brooch, an heirloom necklace, or a sleek bracelet, jewellery elevates the ensemble, bringing in a touch of grandeur and personal flair. After all, why should girls have all the fun when it comes to making a statement?
How have you seen grooms' preferences evolve?
Men want ensembles that move with them—literally and metaphorically. The rise of the lungi pants, with its relaxed yet stylish silhouette, is a testament to this desire for ease. The cropped jacket, versatile kurtas, and even the deconstructed sherwani are now symbols of a groom’s individuality—pieces that can be worn and reinterpreted for multiple occasions.
How involved are grooms in the customisation process now?
One of the most exciting shifts is the rise in personalisation. Grooms are eager to make their couture as unique as the occasion itself, whether it’s embroidering wedding dates on a cross-back panel or layering with stoles that have the couple’s initials intricately woven into the fabric.
We offer deconstructed sets and innovative layering, but it’s the groom’s involvement in selecting these elements that bring a design to life. They want to ensure that every layer, every silhouette, is an extension of who they are. This level of customisation is where the magic happens—whether it’s playing with textures, adding symbolic embroidery, or choosing colour palettes that speak to both heritage and modernity
What elements of your design philosophy resonate most with the modern groom?
Comfort is paramount, especially in the world of Indian weddings. That’s why I always place comfort at the forefront of my designs—it’s not just about how good something looks but how it feels when you’re wearing it for hours. The modern groom wants the drama of couture but without stiffness.
I have an affinity for layering and playing with different textures, and this is something I see grooms embracing more and more. Accessories too, have become key. Whether it’s a striking brooch, sleek footwear, or a modern take on traditional jewellery.
What’s your take on the colour palette shift for wedding attire?
We've always believed in the power of colour to redefine a groom's identity on his wedding day. The shift towards softer hues is something we not only anticipated but have championed over the years. Our journey with working in a diverse colour palette came into the spotlight when we designed Shahid Kapoor’s groom look, where we embraced the beauty and versatility of ivory—something that has since become iconic for us.
We now work with over 30 different shades of ivory alone, each one offering a unique character and depth. Grooms today are not afraid to embrace hues like dusty pinks, soft olives, powder blues, and even muted metallics.
How do you integrate functionality with style?
We've mastered the art of integrating features like hidden pockets, secret zippers, and open silhouettes without compromising on the intricate hand craftsmanship that defines our brand. Whether it's a deconstructed sherwani, a sleeveless design, or a lightweight version, every piece is designed to move effortlessly with the groom while keeping the luxury of couture intact, ensuring he feels as good as he looks throughout the festivities.