No, it’s not election time. But writing about political fashion isn’t out of place — because Indian politicians aren’t seasonal figures. They are always in action, always making a statement. And sometimes, that statement isn’t just in their words, but in what they wear.
Politics and fashion in India go hand in hand. What a leader wears is a carefully crafted message. It’s never just about personal style.
Branding through fashion
If any Indian leader has turned his wardrobe into a brand, it’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi. His high-collared half-jackets — now famously called the ‘Modi jacket’, are as much a part of his identity as his leadership style. He prefers handloom fabrics and regional weaves, matching his larger push for India’s textile heritage. His colour choices — whether saffron, deep blue, or soft pastels — always seem to send a message of confidence and purpose. Even his headgear plays a role. PM embraces India’s cultural diversity in his looks. If we reiterate, for the 2025 Republic Day, PM Modi chose a striking multi-coloured turban featuring shades of red and yellow. He paired it with a brown bandhgala coat with full sleeves, accessorised by a multi-coloured pocket square and churidar pants.
And also when he speaks to young students, his body language is as simple and relatable as the clothes he wears — easy, effortless, and meant to connect.
Rahul Gandhi’s style is as unpolished as his politics. The white kurta-pajama paired with an occasional Nehru jacket just reflects his people-first approach. During the Bharat Jodo Yatra, his rugged, bearded look — completed with T-shirts and sneakers visibly distanced him from elite politics. No doubt it emphasized his grassroots connection.
On the other end of the spectrum, former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal takes simplicity to a whole new level. His half-sleeved checkered shirts, basic trousers, and ever-present muffler, as he addressed people — they aren’t just about comfort, but a deliberate statement. Kejriwal, with his simple attire, a ballpoint pen in his pocket, and his signature muffler, baggy sweater represented the ‘common man’ when he entered politics. While traditional politicians favour grandeur, Kejriwal’s stripped-down style is carefully curated — it is to reflect his ‘aam aadmi’ identity, reinforcing his grassroots governance image.
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Minimalism vs. Power dressing
Mamata Banerjee’s unpressed white cotton saree with a blue border isn’t just an outfit — it’s a symbol. Paired with simple Hawaii chappals and an unassuming presence, her look is a quiet reminder that leadership isn’t about grandeur, but about connecting with people. In fact throughout her political life, Banerjee has maintained a publicly austere lifestyle, wrapped in simple traditional Bengali sarees and avoiding luxuries. Does power really need extravagance? Mamata Banerjee’s style suggests otherwise — her simplicity speaks louder than opulence ever could.
Mayawati, usually opts for salwar kameez in pastel shades as her signature look. That way she stands apart from her saree-clad counterparts. Her matching shawl isn’t just about style, it subtly reinforces her authority. Her dressing overall carries an unmistakable air of confidence and self-assurance.
Amit Shah reflects no-frills political style. He keeps his style simple — a kurta-pajama with a sleeveless Nehru jacket. It is as straightforward as his political persona. Shah prefers muted, earthy shades like beige, white and grey, unlike Modi’s vibrant wardrobe. It perhaps shows his quiet but commanding presence. His minimalist style isn’t just about fashion; it reflects his role as the party’s master strategist, working behind the scenes. Whatever it is, Shah maintains a well-groomed appearance with neatly trimmed hair reflecting discipline and attention to detail.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s style is understated power dressing. Whether she stands in the Delhi metro like any other commoner interacting with co-passengers or presenting the budget in Parliament, Sitharaman clearly shows that you don’t need formal blazers to dress powerfully. Her elegant handloom sarees, with their earthy tones, delicate patterns, and minimal jewellery is something more than just fashion. Even while meeting global financial leaders, Sitharaman’s dignified style reflects her no-nonsense approach to governance. Sitharaman donned an off-white handloom silk saree with Madhubani Art and fish motifs on the recent Union Budget day. I think this was one of her best. The ensemble, designed by Padma awardee Dulari Devi, reflects cultural pride and supports regional artisans, symbolizing abundance and aligning with the minister’s economic vision.
A new generation of style
Bansuri Swaraj, daughter of the late Sushma Swaraj, strikes a fine balance. She blends tradition and modernity in her wardrobe. And it’s with so much ease. Whether she’s in a crisp saree or well-tailored business attire, she carries an air of grace and professionalism. Like her mother, she avoids flamboyance. Her intellect and composure make a statement.
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Akhilesh Yadav in the new generation of fashion has a signature look. A black sleeveless jacket over a white kurta-pajama, paired with a trademark bright red topi — gives him a different appeal as he stands among party colleagues. The precise tailoring gives him a refined look, making him stand out among regional leaders. His style reflects the generational shift in politics, where leaders must honour heritage while appealing to the youth.
So, when it comes to Indian politics, fashion is a statement, symbol, strategy and many more. It’s not only about the clothing of the leader. Every leader’s style is his or her identity. Modi’s branding, Mamata’s simplicity and Sitharaman’s understated elegance, all speak for themselves. In a country where perception matters, what leaders wear isn’t just fabric – it’s the power stitched into every thread.
