Although he describes himself as ‘knowing nothing about fashion’ on his Instagram page, Vir Das’s look at the recent International Emmy Awards was as hotly discussed as his history-making turn as the host for the prestigious event. Das, who conducted a nation-wide hunt for fresh talent to design his look, picked Delhi-based Shubhangi Bajpai from more than 4,000 entries. The winning outfit was a suit that comprised a crisp single-button tailored jacket and pleated lungi-inspired pants (made in fine wool suiting). Das accessorised with a modern cummerbund, which had a button closure, and a minimal emerald necklace.

According to fashion designer Sanjana Bubber, while Das’s ensemble may have seemed relatively simpler, it was neither lacking in impact or style. “The garment paid homage to the modern Indian — one who is mindful of his/her roots and is also well-travelled, has ample exposure to global trends and will not compromise on his/her personal aesthetic identity,” she notes. Indeed, the outfit included several hat-tips to India, from chikankari embroidery to fabrics sourced from destinations as disparate as Gujarat, Hyderabad and Mumbai. This combination of the eclectic and the deeply personal is one of 2025’s biggest trend alerts, Bubber adds.