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Men’s fashion is having a quiet glow-up. Not loud. Not flashy. Just smarter. A few years ago, kurtas were mostly worn for weddings, festivals, or family functions. Now? Guys are wearing kurtas for brunch, office parties, travel shoots, and even casual evenings. And 2026 is pushing this trend harder than ever. This blog covers the top kurta styles for men in 2026, from classic traditional looks to modern street-style cuts. Expect real styling advice, fabric trends, color choices, and what actually looks good in real life.

What Are the Most Trending Kurta Styles for Men in 2026?

The most popular kurta styles in 2026 are:

1. Straight-fit classic kurta

2. Short kurta with jeans

3. Pathani kurta set

4. Angrakha style kurta

5. Indo-western asymmetric kurta

6. Kurta with Nehru jacket

7. Printed festive kurta

8. Kurta with dhoti pants

These styles are trending because they balance comfort, tradition, and modern appeal.

Why Kurtas Are Trending More in 2026

Kurtas are no longer “only for festivals.” The demand is rising because:

• Men want outfits that look sharp without effort

• Wedding functions have increased (haldi, mehendi, sangeet, reception, after party)

• Social media styling is influencing shopping decisions

• Lightweight ethnic fashion is replacing heavy formal wear

Fashion reports in recent years have shown strong growth in men’s ethnicwear categories, especially kurta sets and Indo-western outfits. The reason is simple. Kurtas are wearable. And they photograph well.

1. Classic Straight-Fit Kurta (Still the King)

Some styles never die. Straight kurtas are one of them.

This is the safest and smartest kurta style for men in 2026. It works for:

• festivals

• pujas

• family gatherings

• wedding guest looks

Best styling tips

• Pair with churidar for a sharp traditional vibe

• Pair with straight pajama pants for comfort

• Add a stole for extra drama, but keep it simple

Trending colors in 2026: ivory, sage green, deep maroon, and midnight blue.

2. Short Kurta Style (Best for Casual Modern Looks)

Short kurtas are exploding in popularity. Why? They’re easy.

Short kurtas sit above the knee and work like a stylish shirt. Perfect for younger men and casual events.

Best outfit combos

• short kurta + jeans

• short kurta + chinos

• short kurta + sneakers

Yes, sneakers. It looks clean when done right.

Long-tail keyword fit: best short kurta for men with jeans in 2026.

3. Pathani Kurta Set (Bold, Masculine, Always in Demand)

Pathani kurta sets give a strong look. They feel powerful. Structured.

This style is heavily chosen for:

• Eid outfits

• wedding night functions

• family celebrations

Why Pathani is trending in 2026

• Looks great on all body types

• requires minimal styling

• gives a clean “hero look” instantly Pair it with loafers or traditional sandals. Avoid sporty shoes here.

4. Angrakha Kurta (The Royal Comeback Style)

Angrakha kurtas have that old-world charm. The overlapping front and side tie design makes it look rich without heavy embroidery.

In 2026, Angrakha kurtas are trending in:

• wedding mehendi functions

• festive evenings

• cultural events

Best fabrics for Angrakha kurtas

• cotton silk

• jacquard

• lightweight brocade

A clean Angrakha with subtle detailing looks more premium than loud prints.

5. Asymmetric Indo-Western Kurta (Modern, Stylish, Different)

This is for men who want attention, but not the cringe kind.

Asymmetric kurtas are designed with uneven hems, layered cuts, and modern collars. They are popular for:

• sangeet nights

• cocktail functions

• engagement ceremonies

Style tip from real experience

After writing for ethnicwear brands for a couple of years, one pattern is clear: asymmetric kurtas sell better when they’re in solid colors. Too much print ruins the elegance.

Trending shades: black, charcoal grey, wine, teal.

6. Kurta with Nehru Jacket (Most Wedding-Friendly Combo)

This is the ultimate safe wedding look.

A basic kurta instantly looks expensive when paired with a Nehru jacket. It works for:

• groomsmen outfits

• wedding guests

• reception nights

• family functions

Best kurta + jacket combinations in 2026

• white kurta + pastel jacket

• beige kurta + embroidered jacket

• black kurta + gold buttons jacket

This style is trending because it’s layered, photo-ready, and still comfortable.

7. Printed Festive Kurta (Light, Fun, and Popular)

Prints are becoming more wearable in men’s ethnicwear. Not loud prints. More like clean patterns.

In 2026, popular print styles include:

• block print

• floral micro prints

• geometric patterns

• ikat inspired designs

When to wear printed kurtas

• daytime festivals

• haldi function

• casual family celebration

Printed kurtas look best with plain bottoms. Don’t mix prints.

8. Kurta with Dhoti Pants (The Trendy Traditional Fusion)

Dhoti pants are not new. But in 2026, they’re being styled more confidently.

This look is perfect for:

• destination weddings

• mehendi events

• traditional theme weddings

Why this combo works

• Looks unique in photos

• feels rooted in culture

• gives a strong festive vibe

Keep the kurta simple if the dhoti pants are heavy.

Fabric Trends for Men’s Kurtas in 2026

Fabric is where most people mess up. A kurta can look cheap or premium depending on the fabric choice.

Most preferred kurta fabrics in 2026

• cotton (best for summer and daily wear)

• linen (premium casual vibe)

• cotton silk (best festive option)

• Jacquard (wedding-ready look)

• velvet touch blends (for winter weddings)

Cotton and linen are dominating casual kurta fashion. Cotton, silk, and jacquard are winning festive wear.

How to Choose the Right Kurta Style (Quick Checklist)

This is the simplest way to decide:

• For weddings: Nehru jacket, kurta, Angrakha, asymmetric kurta

• For festivals: straight kurta, printed kurta, Pathani

• For casual wear: short kurta with jeans, linen kurta

• For big events: jacquard kurta set, dhoti kurta combo

Conclusion

2026 is not about choosing between traditional and modern. It’s about mixing both in a clean way. Straight kurtas remain timeless. Short kurtas are dominating casual fashion. Indo-Western cuts are becoming wedding favorites. And Pathani sets are still a strong power look. Pick the style based on your event, body type, and comfort level. And always focus on fit. Want to explore trending kurta styles, from classic to modern cuts, in one place? Check out Ethnic Plus and upgrade your ethnic wardrobe for 2026. What’s your vibe for this year: classic royal, or modern minimal?