You know, Diwali dressing has been a long lived conversation in India. For years and centuries of the Indian mindset, it's either a kurta or a Nehru jacket for the festival of lights. And Bandhgala suits for weddings. And that's all, that's what summarises ethnic wear for most Indian men. But having cut their teeth at fine dressmaking, India's top menswear designers absolutely beg to differ. One says, Diwali Dressing isn't even a thing. Another one suggests military-inspired silhouettes for the ethnic clotheshorse. All our ancient thoughts be damned, the message is clear: it's all about everything-in-between for Diwali 2017. From conservatively cool to 'spotlight layering', here's what'll lock you in the Hall of Fame, this Diwali!

1. Manish Malhotra

©DNA India

"Spotlight layering is a big trend this season. Cowl-necked asymmetrical hybrid silhouettes of kurta-shirts, with embroidered dinner jackets and velvet drapes is a great combo to have in hand."

2. Narendra Kumar Ahmed

©Keegan Crasto

“My idea of festive dressing is to give timeless Desi attires a twist with modern silhouettes. For a modern-age spin to a contemporary look, opt for kurtas in metallic shades or add a coat, and pair it all with monk strap shoes. Else, pair a linen jacket with a silk kurta and casual chinos for absolute effortless dressing."

3. Shantanu And Nikhil

©Airbnb

"For Diwali 2017, we'd love to see men to opt for military-inspired silhouettes with feminine drape details. They can accessorise with crystal/medallion brooches and explore colour blocking on hems & patched pockets. And remember, only slim-fit trousers with dramatic drapes!"

4. Pranav Mishra And Shyma Shetty (Huemn)

©Aman Makkar/Grey Goose

"You can never go wrong with a relaxed, crisp white kurta-pyjama set in a soft 100% cotton. Dress it up with a silk stole for Diwali! Don't shy away from bespoke Nehru jackets in yummy, bright, autumn colors too. Alternatively, silk shirts and tailored trousers have always been great festive options for evening soirees/'dos with friends and family. Lastly, don't be fearful of colour and print!"

5. Abhishek Paatni

©MensXP/Siddharth Batra

"It's all about the basics for Diwali 2017. Plus—pure fabrics, soft colors and most importantly, custom tailoring. Men should be aim at exploring their personal styles this season and I see bespoke tailoring as the starter pack to that. In addition, leather sandals/gladiators are great bets too. This is also the right time to bring out your vintage wrist watches!"

6. Gaurav Khanijo

©MensXP/Siddharth Batra

"If you're against the idea of Kurtas for Diwali, you're missing out on the most comfortable piece of apparel. They're easy to slip into, look absolutely 'chill' and in a snap—bring you back to your roots. However, picking the right length is sacred! Pair them with jeans, sneakers or even bomber jackets for that matter. Or opt for long kurtas with Kolhapuris/shawls/Nehru jackets instead."

7. Sahil Aneja

©Moe's Art

"Diwali dressing doesn't mean stereotypical traditional wear. And well, lately, it's more about pre-Diwali parties anyway. Even a really cool jacket with jeans would look terrific! But if you're hell bent on going Indian, a Nehru jacket over a shirt and a pair of jeans would do you good."