What is a Nehru Jacket & How to Style It?

The Nehru jacket has become a timeless symbol of elegance and sophistication in men’s fashion. Whether you're dressing for a wedding, a festive celebration, or even a formal office event, the Nehru jacket offers endless styling possibilities.

Let’s explore what exactly a Nehru jacket is, how to wear it, and how you can style it for different occasions.

A Nehru jacket is a hip-length, tailored coat featuring a mandarin collar (also known as a band collar), front buttons, and no lapels. It’s named after India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, who made this style popular in the mid-20th century.

Unlike a blazer or suit jacket, the Nehru jacket has a distinct cultural heritage but can be paired with both traditional and modern outfits. It's typically made from materials like khadi, cotton, linen, or silk, depending on the occasion.

How to Style a Nehru Jacket

Styling a Nehru jacket doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some quick tips:

• With Jeans: Pair a lightweight Nehru jacket with a casual shirt and jeans for a smart-casual look.

• As a Nehru Jacket Suit: Combine it with matching trousers to create a structured, minimalist suit alternative. Ideal for cocktail parties or formal dinners.

• With Accessories: Pocket squares, brooches, and lapel pins can enhance the look without going overboard.

Try experimenting with different textures like velvet or jacquard for evening events, or linen and cotton for daytime wear.

What to Wear with Nehru Jacket

The beauty of the Nehru jacket is how adaptable it is. Here are a few outfit combinations:

• Formal: Shirt + trousers + Nehru jacket + leather shoes

• Fusion: Turtleneck + jeans + Nehru jacket

• Festive: Embroidered Nehru jacket + silk kurta + mojari shoes

No matter how you choose to wear it, the Nehru jacket adds an unmistakable flair to your overall appearance.

What to Wear Under a Nehru Jacket

One of the key styling questions is: What to wear under a Nehru jackets in the USA? The answer depends on the occasion and the overall look you’re aiming for.

• For a formal event: Pair it with a crisp dress shirt or a full-sleeved kurta.

• For casual outings: A well-fitted T-shirt can create a semi-formal look.

• In winter: Layer it over a light sweater or turtleneck for a smart, contemporary vibe.

The versatility of Nehru jackets means you can mix and match inner layers to suit the weather and the tone of your event.

How to Wear Nehru Jacket with Shirt

Wearing a Nehru jacket with a shirt is one of the most flexible ways to style it. Make sure the shirt is well-fitted and ideally in a neutral or pastel tone. Avoid loud prints unless the jacket is solid in color.

For a balanced look:

• Choose a slim-cut Nehru jacket to avoid bulkiness.

• Roll up your sleeves slightly if you're going for a relaxed vibe.

• Match your trousers or chinos with the jacket tone for a semi-formal ensemble

What Shirt to Wear with Nehru Jacket

If you’re styling a men’s Nehru jacket with Western wear, shirts play a big role. For a sharp, polished look:

• Go for solid-colored shirts in white, pale blue, or grey.

• Avoid large collars—mandarin collars or spread collars work best so they don’t clash with the jacket’s neckline.

• Keep it tucked in and pair it with fitted trousers or chinos for balance.

White shirts, in particular, go beautifully with a black Nehru jacket, creating a classic monochrome look that never goes out of style.

Where to Buy Nehru Jacket

If you're looking to buy a Nehru jacket that combines traditional craftsmanship with modern style, Livalya is the perfect destination. At Livalya, you’ll find a curated collection of men’s Nehru jackets in the USA designed for both elegance and comfort. Whether you prefer a classic black Nehru jacket or something more festive and colorful, Livalya offers options for every occasion.

For those who value quality, and contemporary design, Livalya’s Nehru jackets are a standout choice. Explore our range and find the perfect piece to elevate your style.