Updated On: 18 May, 2024 05:30 PM IST | Mumbai | Aakanksha Ahire
Indian politicians have constantly promoted Indian textiles by donning the rich handloom produced in the country, be it khadi or Banarasi silk. Fashion experts say that their iconic looks can be replicated by commoners with the help of these friendly tips

Out of the many politicians, some prominent figures stand out in their style as they beautifully weave together handloom and evolving fashion trends, all while keeping the essence of Indian attire intact. Photo Courtesy: PTI/ANI
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was recently spotted in a well-starched white kurta-pyjama with a bright saffron-coloured shawl looking radiant. This is not the first time he has created a buzz for his unique outfits. He is also not the first neta known for his style sense.
Indian politicians, since the time of independence, have looked elegant and stylish be it former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru famous for his Nehru jacket or Indian National Congress leader, Sonia Gandhi known for neatly pressed, stiff white and pearl sarees of different kinds.
What’s more, our Indian politicians - men and women, have constantly promoted Indian textiles by donning the rich handloom produced in India. Be it khadi or Banarasi silk, the charm of all Indian textiles has been kept alive by these politicians to date.
Further, the choice of clothes and attire also comes from a sense of understanding of the masses and what is acceptable for them. While men have stuck to wearing kurtas and collared shirts, women have opted for sarees that make them look modest and exude the ‘Bhartiya nari’ vibe.
To elevate the looks, accessories like bindis, sunglasses, short purses, Gandhi topi, tika, Kolhapuri chappals, shawls, etc have stood the test of time, thereby preserving the Indian culture.
Also Read: Why should netas have all the fun? Stylists share dressing tips for voting day
Out of the many politicians, some prominent figures stand out in their style as they beautifully weave together handloom and evolving fashion trends, all while keeping the essence of Indian attire intact. They include Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Rajeev Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Sushma Swaraj, Shashi Tharoor, Nirmala Sitharam, Eknath Shinde, Mahua Moitra, among others.
Now, with more and more actors venturing into politics, the fashion game in the Indian political landscape has grown even stronger.
As Mumbai approaches its voting day, Mid-day.com ropes in two fashion designers holding immense love for Indian crafts – Archana Jaju and Shilpi Gupta, who reflect on some of the best-dressed politicians in India and also suggest fun ideas of recreating those looks to those willing to experiment with their style on D-day.
"Indian politicians create a fashion statement by bringing in new elements to the fashion industry,” says Shilpi Gupta. Interestingly, Gupta tells Mid-day.com, “Politicians, especially those in the spotlight, have fashion stylists like celebrities do. Styling becomes crucial as it impacts visual perception. The stylists curate a wardrobe that helps the politician project and maintain an image in front of the public. It is more common with young and new-age politicians who are more active on social media, where image and perception play a significant role in shaping thoughts and ideas."
Gupta opines that commoners too, can adopt styles of Indian netas on various occasions. “From formal business meetings, conferences, and presentations to cocktail parties, social gatherings, and dinners, these looks can be effortlessly worn. Outfits that include casual shirts, T-shirts, and kurtas are perfect for a casual outing, brunches, cafe hopping, movie nights, and travels, all of which exude laid-back and relaxed vibes. Lastly, sarees and kurta pyjamas paired with Nehru jackets can be recreated at weddings, cultural ceremonies, festivals, and religious events."
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