A Look Back At Bollywood's Most Culturally Significant Fashion Moments

Way before Sabrina Carpenter's curtain bangs or Taylor Swift's pin-straight bangs, India had witnessed a hairstyling revolution in the 1960s with the introduction of the "Sadhana Cut." Bollywood actress Sadhana Shivdasani’s chic fringe hairstyle in Love in Simla (1960) became a sensation, setting a new beauty standard for Indian women. This was just the beginning of Bollywood’s long history of setting trends that would influence generations.

From traditional ensembles to daring modern styles, Indian cinema has continuously reshaped the world of fashion. Here’s a look at some of the most unforgettable Bollywood fashion statements over the years.

Sadhana Cut

According to Vogue, Sadhana's haircut was inspired by Hollywood sweetheart Audrey Hepburn. At a time when no one imagined the style on an Indian actress, Sadhana embraced it and set a new trend across the country.

Bobby Polka Dot Shirt By Dimple Kapadia

Dimple Kapadia was just 17 years old when she became a trendsetter. In the film Bobby (1973), she sported a white shirt with black polka dots and a black mini skirt. This look was fresh and "bold", becoming an instant hit, influencing generations of young women to embrace a more modern and confident sense of style. Countless women, including Bollywood actresses, have paid homage to Kapadia's iconic look.

Speaking to SheThePeople, Megha, a homemaker recounted her earliest memory of a Bollywood trend. "When I was a young girl, I wanted a polka-dot shirt just like Bobby. In fact, I created a huge fuss about it at home. However, due to financial constraints, my parents could not buy me one, and instead got me a polka-dot bandana to wear in my hair. I cherished that accessory for many years."

Dev Anand's 'Jeff' Hat

Dev Anand’s signature Jeff hat became an iconic fashion statement in Bollywood. Inspired by Hollywood’s trench coat-and-hat aesthetic, he popularised this look in films like Jewel Thief (1967) and Guide (1965). Along with his body language, timeless charm, and comic timing, this style of hat was a catalyst to his niche identity as an actor.

Yash Raj Films' Chiffon Sarees

Filmmaker Yash Raj Chopra's work has had a significant impact on Indian cinema and culture, and the fashion statements are no exception. His films set the trend of chiffon sarees (typically draped at surreal locations; even those with frigid temperatures). From Sridevi's monochrome drapes in Mr India (1987) to Rekha's beautiful looks in Silsila (1981). 

Karisma Kapoor's Athleisure Outfits In Dil Toh Pagal Hai

Karisma Kapoor made sporty-chic popular as Nisha in Dil Toh Pagal Hai (1997), effortlessly blending comfort with style. Her vibrant athleisure outfits—featuring crop tops, high-waisted leggings, and trendy jackets—redefined casual fashion in Bollywood. Kapoor's look has inspired sustainable activewear today, proving that style and functionality can go hand-in-hand.

Regal Done Right By Sanjay Leela Bhansali

If there is any Bollywood filmmaker who knows how to make actresses look their most ethereal and opulent selves, it is Sanjay Leela Bhansali. The auteur has mastered Indian historical and regal styling, influencing generations of Indian women's fashion. From Aishwarya Rai Bachchan's emotive looks as Paro in Devdas (2002) to Alia Bhatt's pristine white ensembles in Gangubai Kathiawadi (2022), he is known for numerous iconic looks.

"Devdas fashion was so popular that for a while even non-Bengali women wanted to do the red-and-white bridal eye-makeup like Aishwarya," recounted Pallavi Srinivasan, a software engineer, in conversation with SheThePeople. 

Anushka Sharma's Indo-Western Looks In Ae Dil Hai Mushkil

Anushka Sharma's iconic character Alizeh in Ae Dil Hai Mushkil (2016) redefined "rebellious" Indian fashion for women. Elevating the classic kurti with ripped jeans and a leather jacket, this fusion ensemble was more than just about style, it embodied her character's daringness to break away from norms and expectations, embracing modernity within the tradition.

"As a Muslim girl, Alizeh's character was very special to me and many girls like me. In college, I was just starting to explore my style independently and her outfits were so inspiring and easy to recreate. As I come from a strict household, her modest looks with a modern twist were my way of self-expression," shared Anam Shaikh, a home chef, in conversation with SheThePeople.

Shah Rukh Khan's Black Pathani Suit In Raees

Shah Rukh Khan's all-black pathani suits (kurta-salwar) in Raees (2017) became a huge hit for men's fashion. The look represented culture, fierceness, and effortless masculinity, blending traditional attire with a powerful, contemporary edge. The deep black ensemble, paired with aviators and a rugged beard gave SRK an intense, charismatic presence on-screen.

Deepika Padukone's Chic Indian Workwear In Piku 

We all love Deepika Padukone's unapologetic and independent character in Piku (2015). To fully personify these qualities that most modern Indian women strive to embody, her character's wardrobe too as thoughtfully curated to reflect effortless elegance and practicality. Piku's Indian workwear--linen or cotton kurtis in neutral shades, flowy palazzos, flats footwear, and a stylish accessory like a bindi, stole, or sunglasses--became all the rage.

Kareena Kapoor Khan's 'Poo' Y2K Looks In Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham

Kareena Kapoor Khan is the queen of Y2K style in Bollywood. Her glamourous and ultra-feminine looks as Pooja Sharma aka Poo in Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham (2001) continue to hold a deep nostalgic charm for Indian 90s kids. Pink, glitter, veils, feather boas, glossy lips, and co-ord sets--Poo popularised these quintessential Y2K elements in India.

The feminine urge to be like "Poo" from K3G. pic.twitter.com/xJFRENxLTK

— Rohitt. (@rohitt_pal) December 14, 2021