Easy grooming tips for men to look their best during the festive season

The festive season is upon us and while that calls for new clothes and accessories, it also calls for a neat, groomed look. But trends are not meant to be followed blindly. Not every style will suit every person, right? The ‘neat beard and gelled back hair’ trend might suit some, but if you cannot pull it off, it’s important that you find an alternative.But, there are steps that you cannot miss if you want to look all groomed during the days of festivities. From watching your diet to following a basic skincare routine — we give you a lowdown on how you can look your best during Navratri and Durga Puja without much effort.

Beard game strong
Beard is an accessory that can make or break a man’s look. It is very important to trim one’s beard accordingly. Trimming according to face structure can complement and accentuate your look and plays a major role in grooming. A beard wax is a good addition to the grooming kit. Keeping it tidy and well-groomed does the trick.

A basic skincare routine
Cleansers are important to remove excess oil and dirt from the skin pores. It’s also imperative that you use a sunscreen when you’re going out in the daytime. Drink a lot of water to keep yourself hydrated and moisturise your skin with a light moisturiser. Use scrub once a week to get rid of all the dead skin cells.

Watch your diet before festivities
Be on a maintenance calorie diet throughout the year. When you are in the desired shape, it is very important to maintain that body mass index (BMI). While caloric deficit only cuts down muscle mass along with fat, a
high-calorie diet can be detrimental. Therefore, it is important to know one’s body type and maintain a balance when it comes to food intake. During Pujo, we tend to eat more and from the outside, so be careful and smart about what you are eating. That apart, try and work out for at least half an hour in the morning, so you feel rejuvenated for the whole day.

Accessorise it right
Shoes are one of the most important accessories. Mismatched shoes can make your look completely fall apart. Kolhapuris or chappals go well with ethnic outfits, whereas loafers look great with semi-formal outfits. Whether you are going for a dandiya event or pandal hopping, make sure your shoes are comfortable, so you can walk miles in them or dance the night away.

Dhoti-kurta is a must for me during the festive season
Dhoti-kurta is a must for me while offering anjali. When I go for pandal hopping, I wear casuals,
perhaps a printed or a denim shirt or a kurta, teamed with jeans.
– Gourab Chatterjee, actor
The right perfume
Remember: A little cologne goes a long way. Always be the guy who smells good — not the guy that overpowers everyone’s sense of smell when he walks in. Make sure you use the perfume on your skin and not your clothes.

Hair styling
Hair also plays an important part in accentuating one’s look. The key to most salon-quality hairstyles is almost always a combination of heat, water and direction. Hair will stay in the direction it’s dried if you comb it as you dry it. If your hair has been dried correctly, it should have a definite shape with volume on top. Use a mousse or gel to keep it in place. If you like it a lot more natural, opt for cremes for that messy, out-of-bed allure.
Always make it a point to smell good
fragrance leaves a lasting impression. Never step outside without wearing your signature perfume that will help you stand out
– Gourab Chatterjee, actor
Pix: Anindya Saha