Cinema holds a profound influence on our lives, and Bollywood, over the years, has not only delivered captivating narratives and performances but also set benchmarks in styling. Certain character looks have transcended time, ingraining themselves in the collective memory of audiences and serving as perennial sources of inspiration, often recreated and celebrated.
Both male and female actors have adorned remarkable costumes in a variety of cinematic genres, from period dramas to musicals, leaving an indelible mark on fashion trends. Below is a compilation of looks that have not only set trends but also become cultural phenomena.
10 Iconic Bollywood looks that revolutionized fashion trends and captivated audiences:
1. Alia Bhatt (Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani)
Alia Bhatt's portrayal in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani embodies one of Bollywood's iconic looks. In the What Jhumka song sequence, she graced the screen in a vibrant multicolored saree, complemented by a sleeveless embroidered blouse and jhumka earrings. Her face was adorned with a bindi and a nose pin. This ensemble swiftly became a sensation across the internet.
2. Anushka Sharma (Ae Dil Hai Mushkil)
Anushka Sharma's bridal attire in Ae Dil Hai Mushkil stands as one of the most iconic looks of a Bollywood actress. Amidst the nikah scene in the Channa Mereya song, she mesmerized audiences in a stunning salmon-hued kurta-style blouse combined with a red lehenga skirt. Her accessories included a layered polki necklace with emerald beads, earrings, a nath, and a passa.
3. Deepika Padukone (Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani)
Deepika Padukone's sartorial choice in the song Badtameez Dil from the movie Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani gives major wedding wear inspiration. Her blue saree was juxtaposed with a chic strappy black blouse adorned with golden sequins. Undoubtedly, this ensemble has secured its place as one of the most famous looks of a Bollywood actress in movies.
4. Priyanka Chopra (Dostana)
Priyanka Chopra's ethereal beige metallic saree, paired with a bikini-style blouse and a single diamond bracelet in the iconic song Desi Girl from the movie Dostana, epitomizes class and sophistication, making it an ideal choice for any wedding function. This exquisite ensemble swiftly gained popularity among fashion enthusiasts, inspiring countless girls to emulate this glamorous Bollywood look.
5. Sushmita Sen (Main Hoon Na)
Sushmita Sen's iconic red saree from her entrance scene in the movie Main Hoon Na remains one of the most beloved Bollywood movie outfits of all time. The ensemble was paired with a sleeveless blouse and a statement necklace. This unforgettable moment in fashion history serves as a quintessential example of Bollywood glamor at its finest.
6. Kareena Kapoor Khan (Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham)
Poo from Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham remains one of Kareena Kapoor Khan's most memorable characters. Her pastel attire in the song Bole Chudiyan stands out as one of the most iconic Bollywood outfits. It comprised a cropped blouse, ombré palazzo pants, and a coordinating dupatta. It is a flawless choice for festive occasions, showcasing the perfect blend of traditional charm and modern flair.
7. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan (Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam)
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan had an ethereal presence in the song Chand Chhupa Badal Mein from Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam. Her enchanting lavender lehenga, adorned with exquisite jewelry, crafted a vision that embodied the very essence of dreamlike beauty. The subtle makeup and elegantly styled hair further enhanced her angelic aura, solidifying it as one of the most famous Bollywood looks.
8. Rani Mukerji (Kuch Kuch Hota Hai)
Rani Mukerji's portrayal of Tina in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai featured one of the most famous looks of a Bollywood actress in movies: the vibrant yellow mini skirt paired with a chic crop top. Enhanced with a stylish belt and a funky necklace, this ensemble radiated youthful charm. Its impact extended beyond the silver screen, inspiring countless college girls to embrace the trend and incorporate the style into their own wardrobes.
9. Madhuri Dixit (Hum Aapke Hain Koun)
Madhuri Dixit's ensemble in the song Joote De Do Paise Le Lo from the movie Hum Aapke Hain Koun was a delightful blend of stunning elegance and playful charm. The combination of a vibrant green shirt with a pristine white lehenga, accentuated by a green dupatta styled like a veil, created a visually striking and memorable look. Adorned with stunning jewelry, this attire went on to become one of the most iconic and beloved outfits in Bollywood history.
10. Sridevi (Chandni)
Sridevi's yellow saree in the song Mitwa from the movie Chandni sparked a trend that resonated deeply with audiences. The picturesque backdrop of the Swiss mountains coupled with her ethereal presence inspired countless women to recreate this magical moment. Paired with subtle jewelry, impeccable makeup, and flowing open hair, Sridevi's mesmerizing appearance has rightfully earned its place among Bollywood's most iconic looks.
