Rohit + Rahul Are Redefining Modern Menswear Using The Night Sky

If there’s one thing that can be said about Rohit Gandhi + Rahul Khanna, it’s that their love for geometry and darker and moodier colour palettes is evident in everything that they create. This is why it’s hardly surprising that the designers chose to meld two of their favourite concepts together for their new collection ‘Nocturnum’.

Rohit and Rahul’s latest collection draws inspiration from the night sky, with celestial motifs and geometric patterns influencing everything from tailored suits to casual jackets. This fusion of structure and fluidity is paving the way for a new kind of masculine elegance, one that embraces both traditional and modern elements.

“We wanted to capture the energy and grace of celestial bodies,” says Rahul Khanna, “Through the use of geometric patterns and organic forms. The aim was to balance the sharpness of architectural lines with the softness and fluidity of motion.” The result is menswear that feels both structured and ethereal, a nod to the dynamic nature of celestial objects themselves.

Another emerging trend is the bold use of mocha gold, a warm, rich tone that evokes the brilliance of stars streaking across the night sky. This colour, while unexpected in menswear, adds a sense of opulence and light, contrasting with the darker hues typically found in formalwear. “We wanted to explore the concept of light within darkness,” explains the designer. “Mocha gold evokes the glow of cosmic light and the richness of stardust, giving the collection an added depth and warmth that elevates traditional menswear.”

The craftsmanship behind this trend is equally striking. Intricate 3D embroidery clusters, metallic embellishments, and fine stitching techniques like French knots and satin stitch bring an artisanal quality to the pieces. “Craftsmanship is key,” says Rahul. “We used techniques like metallic yarns and Zardozi embroidery to introduce a sense of opulence while still keeping it contemporary and edgy.”

Luxurious fabrics also play a vital role in this celestial-inspired trend. Rich velvets, silk satins, and tulles are being paired together to reflect the duality of light and dark. “We chose velvets to represent the darkness of the night sky,” the designer adds, “and paired them with silk satins and tulles to evoke the light and fluidity of a star’s trail. The balance of these materials creates a sense of motion, which is at the core of this trend.”

In terms of silhouettes, the focus is on architectural precision and fluid movement. Traditional suits are being reimagined with cropped jackets and unexpected embellishments, blending modern style with classic tailoring. Bandhgalas, for instance, are being redefined with contemporary cuts and dynamic details, allowing men to make bold statements without straying from timeless elegance. “Our long-tailed jackets and cut-out designs redefine formal attire by blending traditional elegance with a modern edge,” says Khanna. “These elements convey a sense of movement, as if the wearer is in motion, like a star travelling across the sky. It’s about finding that balance between structure and fluidity.” For the modern man, this new wave of menswear offers both versatility and sophistication. Celestial-inspired jackets and tailored pieces provide an effortless way to elevate personal style, whether for formal events or more casual settings. “We want these pieces to become wardrobe staples,”  he explains. “They can be dressed up with tailored trousers or down with jeans, making them adaptable for any occasion.”

As menswear continues to shift towards sleek, tailored fits and unique details, the influence of midnight geometry and celestial motifs will likely continue to shape the fashion landscape. “There’s a growing desire for something that feels both timeless and innovative,”  Rahul reflects. “Men want to express their style with confidence, and this trend offers them the tools to do just that—with a touch of cosmic elegance.”