Introduction

Free-flowing floral carpet scents, the twinkling, glimmering light of gold zari borders, and the eternal crisp fresh white-resonating spirit of Onam are all sights and sounds to glorify. This is when clothes come to life, along with the food. The classical dhoti may be very much at home with its polished cousins, such as a well-cut ethnic shirt, for a look that is elegant. However, the same outfit with formal trousers is a more contemporary expression that balances well the parameters of classicville and modern elegance.

Mornings at the temple, lunch at Sadhya, and the festivities you love in your locality: array yourself in the spirit of your traditions juxtaposed with your own style. Light cotton or linen-blend shirts in whites, creams, or soft pastel prints would surely add to the festive vibe and keep you cool under the harsh Kerala sun. Gold-thread work or understated embroidery would add a touch of grace to the shirt, enabling you to wear it to both a close family gathering and a fun celebration.

Shirt Picks from Celio

1. Men’s White Linen Solid Regular Fit Shirt

Effortless Onam celebration unfolds in crisp white linen that pairs wonderfully with a gold-bordered dhoti or beige formal trousers for men. 

Key Features:

• Pure Linen Cloth: It is breathable, keeping you fresh and light through long sadhya meals or floral puja rituals

• Clean White Canvas: It has highlighted gold accents and accessories, and looks great when paired with either the dhoti or with formal trousers for men.

• Balanced Regular Fit: Structured yet easy-moving, it is perfect whether you're seated cross-legged or greeting guests

• Traditional-Meets-Modern: It looks graceful when paired with a gold-bordered dhoti or chic formal trousers for men.

2. Men’s Off-White Embroidered Cotton Shirt

This embroidered classic off-white shirt is adorned with delicate gold embroidery: your dream aesthetic piece for dressing smartly this Onam with either a dhoti or formal trousers for men.

Key Features:

• Subtle Embroidery: It has festive detailing to enhance the dhoti pairing and stands out with formal trousers for men.

• Soft cotton construction: Airy and lightweight for humid celebrations, it is perfect for temple visits in the morning or night festivities. 

• Tailored regular fit: Flattering and free-moving, it is apt for courtyard seating.

• Cross-functional styling: It goes well with a crisp dhoti or formal trousers for men for semi-formal Onam events.

3. Men's Cream Striped Linen-Blend Shirt

This cream linen-blend striped shirt is a blend of classic and modern style. This goes well with dhotis or formal trousers for men.

Key Benefits:

• Heritage Stripes with a Golden Sheen: It imbues festivity without dominating the look, leaving room for dhoti territory.

• Linen-Cotton Blend: Soft and breathable, it is a must-have for managing the midday temperatures.

• Easy, Sophisticated Cut: It is a comfortable wear while indulging in decorating a floral rangoli pattern or mingling in family courtyards.

• Versatile Pairing: This Onam, pair this shirt with traditional dhotis or formal trousers for men.

Pairing Ethnic Shirts with Dhotis or Formal Trousers

Pairing an ethnic shirt with a white dhoti represents an authentic traditional vibe, while, on the other hand, trousers for men keep the silhouette modern while respecting roots. Here are a few styling tips:

• Season-Friendly Fabrics: Linen and cotton control temperature and are moisture-wicking, making them ideal for the humid weather.

• The Photogenic Charm: Shirts with gold embellishments or pastel prints look good for group family photos amidst flower backdrops.

• Wardrobe Flexibility: You can wear the same shirt both ways, whether with a traditional dhoti or with smart formal trousers for men. 

Conclusion

Onam is no doubt the largest festival of Kerala. However, it's more like a cultural extravaganza, a good time to come together that signifies the joy of shared and diverse tastes. In Kerala, such discussions about tradition have always been completed with a few words about how to make them more contemporary. For Onam, dressing is regulated by more than just adhering to tradition.

Combine an ethnic shirt with the traditional Kerala dhoti for a look that reflects timeless grace, or switch to wearing it with smart formal trousers for men to add a sharp, urban edge to your festive wear. Explore your options on celio.