Everyone adores Sidharth Malhotra, and I can surely bet everyone loves him in a well-fitted kurta even more. As one of Bollywood’s leading stars, Malhotra surely knows how to serve with his style, be it his red carpet appearances, film promotions, or nailing Indian wear. You can always catch him blending traditional looks with modern silhouettes, earning brownie points from his fans. To help you (or your boyfriend or husband) with a festive wear moodboard, the star sat with ELLE for an exclusive conversation, where he shared his style tips, his love for Indian attire, favourite pieces, and go-to designers.
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ELLE: What’s one style tip you’ve given to someone trying to embrace ethnic wear?
Sidharth Malhotra (SM): With ethnic wear, the fit is everything. It’s about making sure the clothes feel like they’re made just for you. A well-tailored outfit can really enhance how you carry yourself. I’ve always believed that traditional wear lets you express yourself better. Whether you’re going for bold colours or more subtle, earthy tones, adding your own spin with colours or details is what makes an outfit truly stand out.
ELLE: Which Bollywood movie do you think has the best fashion?
SM: I feel in movies, the right styling helps bring the character alive. Every film has its own unique style that really complements the characters and the story. Take Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani—the fashion there is bold, vibrant, and full of personality, just like the characters. But if we’re talking about timeless classics, Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham still stands out for me. The traditional wear in that film, whether it’s the sherwanis or the simple kurtas, captures the elegance and grace of Indian culture. It’s one of those films where the fashion remains iconic even today.
ELLE: What’s one fashion piece you believe every man should own in his wardrobe?
SM: There are a few essentials that every guy should have in their closet. For me, it’s all about the timeless pieces that always work. A stylish kurta paired with dhoti pants or wider trousers is a go-to for Indian festivals and family gatherings—super comfortable and still on point. And when it comes to formal occasions, a well-tailored black suit or tuxedo is essential. These are the kind of ‘must-haves’ that elevate your look for any occasion, whether it’s a wedding or a black-tie event.
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ELLE: What is the most memorable outfit that you’ve worn on a red carpet?
SM: One of my recent favourite red carpet moments has to be from a wedding I went to recently in Mumbai. I wore this amazing Manish Malhotra outfit, and it just felt like everything came together perfectly. We have collaborated on many looks over the years, and he really knows how to make traditional Indian wear feel fresh and modern. What I love about his designs is how they’re tailored to perfection, with every detail—whether it’s the rich colour or the intricate embroidery—crafted to create something truly personal and unique.
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ELLE: Who are your go-to designers for any festive occasion?
SM: My go-to designers are Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla, Manish Malhotra, Shantanu & Nikhil, and Tarun Tahiliani. They’ve mastered the art of blending tradition with a modern twist. But what’s even more exciting is seeing the new generation of young designers coming up. They’re pushing boundaries and giving traditional wear a bold, contemporary spin that I think yet again is going to transform Indian fashion on a global level.
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