Bollywood has never lagged behind as a fashion trendsetter. Throughout the decades, the industry has taught us in some of the most iconic fashion moments ever. From classy gowns to stunning sarees, Bollywood actresses have been creating fashion moments that remain unbeatable even after future generations.
In this blog, we will talk about 15 of the most female iconic Bollywood outfit moments that defied fashion rules and initiated trends all over the world.
1. Madhubala’s Anarkali in Mughal-E-Azam (1960)
Madhubala’s Anarkali look in Mughal-E-Azam is still the most iconic Bollywood costume worn by any actress. That heavy embroidery, royal cut, and flowy style took everyone back to the Mughal days. Even now, it’s a huge inspiration for bridal and party outfits in India.
Style Tip: Pair an Anarkali with jhumkas and mojris to get that royal feel. Go for silk or velvet ones if you want it to look grand. Add bold eye makeup and pretty accessories, and you’re all set for weddings or any big celebration.
2. Mumtaz’s Orange Saree in Brahmachari (1968)
Mumtaz’s orange saree in Brahmachari changed the game. That tight, close-pleated drape with a sleeveless blouse made her a style icon overnight. It gave sarees a bold, fresh twist — blending charm, class, and a touch of daring. Even today, that retro look stays iconic and totally remarkable.
Style Tip: Try a tight, clean drape in a bright chiffon saree with small prints. Keep accessories minimal—just bold studs and a neat bun. Perfect for retro parties or old Bollywood-themed shoots.
3. Zeenat Aman’s Hippie Look in Hare Rama Hare Krishna (1971
Zeenat Aman’s hippie style in this film, from flared pants to chunky jewelry and oversized glasses, made hippie fashion trendy in Bollywood. Her bold, carefree look brought boho-chic into the spotlight, challenging norms with loud prints, big sunglasses, and beaded accessories. It redefined casual glam with rebel vibes.
Style suggestions: Focus on beaded accessories, layering of garments, and a relaxed aura to achieve that ultimate boho-chic. Go for flared denims, patchwork blazers, and fringed bags to get the hippie style. Over-layer bangles and necklaces, and complete with middle-parted hair. Perfect for concert nights, night out with friends, and vintage photo shoots.
4. Rekha’s Kanjeevaram Sarees
Rekha’s style game in heavy Kanjeevaram sarees and chunky temple jewelry is just unmatched. She totally owned that royal, retro vibe. Her whole look — bold silks, rich colors, timeless glam — made her the queen of elegance. Even today, no one rocks that kind of desi diva energy quite like her.
Trend tips: Go for rich silk Kanjeevaram sarees in bold colors like deep red, bottle green, or mustard. Add chunky temple jewelry, bold red lipstick, and a jasmine gajra bun. Works best for weddings or big pooja functions where you wanna go full-on regal.
5. Sridevi’s Blue Saree in Mr. India (1987)
Sridevi’s steamy blue chiffon saree in Kaate Nahi Kat Te is still one of Bollywood’s all-time fashion hits. That soft drape hugging her frame, the way it moved in the rain — pure magic. It became the symbol of romance and sexy elegance, setting a whole new saree style standard.
Style suggestions: Go for a bold-colored chiffon saree — think deep blue or wine red. Keep the jewelry super minimal, maybe just studs or a thin bracelet. Let your hair fall in soft, loose curls. This way, the saree takes all the spotlight. Perfect for date nights or cocktail evenings.nights.
6. Madhuri Dixit’s Purple Saree in Hum Aapke Hain Koun (1994)
Madhuri’s lilac saree with a backless blouse in Didi Tera Devar Deewana flipped wedding fashion on its head. That song scene turned the soft lilac drape into bridal gold. Suddenly, backless blouses were the thing — brides, bridesmaids, everyone wanted in. It had that perfect mix of sass, softness, and full-on 90s charm.
Trend tips: Pick pastel sarees with soft embroidery and pair them with sheer or net blouses for a graceful vibe. Go with chandbalis and glowy makeup. It’s fresh, youthful, and totally wedding-perfect.
7. Madhuri Dixit’s White Suit in Dil To Pagal Hai (1997)
Madhuri Dixit’s all-white churidar suit became a fashion staple in the late ’90s, symbolising purity and simplicity. With soft lace work and a breezy silhouette, it nailed that mix of grace and ease. It was every modern Indian woman’s dream — comfy, glam, and totally unforgettable.
Fashion tricks: Go for a flowy white churidar or anarkali with lace, chikankari, or mirror work — perfect for daytime charm. Add pearl studs, soft makeup, and you’re all set for weddings, pujas, or a festive brunch. Keep it light, dreamy, and elegant without trying too hard.
8. Rani Mukerji’s Indo-Western Look in Bunty Aur Babli (2005)
Rani’s corset tops with Patiala salwars and chunky jewelry kicked off a cool Indo-western vibe that stuck around. Her bold mix-and-match style brought ethnic fusion back in a big way. It was fresh, fun, and easy to wear — perfect for street style, weddings, or even ramp looks.
Fashion advice: Pair printed palazzos with crop tops or short kurtis to nail that easy-breezy fusion vibe. Throw in a printed dupatta, a denim jacket kurti, or a waistcoat over a salwar. Add juttis and chunky oxidized bangles to seal the look. Great for Haldi or casual college nights.
9. Preity Zinta’s Lehenga in Kal Ho Naa Ho (2003)
Preity Zinta’s magenta lehenga in Kal Ho Naa Ho was simple yet so striking — no over-the-top bling, just pure elegance. It kicked off a whole vibe of lightweight bridal looks in bold jewel tones and soft pastels. Perfect for brides who wanna look classy without drowning in heavy outfits.
Fashion tricks: Go for light pastel lehengas with just enough shimmer—nothing too loud. Solid colors with pretty borders or a bit of sequin work are all you need. Team it with a modern blouse and a neat hairdo. Great pick for bridesmaids or those easygoing wedding events.
10. Aishwarya Rai’s Peacock Lehenga in Jodhaa Akbar (2008)
Aishwarya’s royal red lehenga with heavy gold embroidery brought back full-blown Mughal vibes. That outfit felt like stepping into a painting—every pleat, every thread screamed old-school royalty. It kicked off a wave of vintage design in wedding wear, making old motifs cool again and pulling ancient style right into the spotlight.
Styling secrets: Rich jewel tones with antique gold jewelry create a regal appearance. Wear unstitched raw silk lehengas or brocade with traditional prints and pair with antique-inspired jewelry. Complete the royal look with kohl-lined eyes and middle-parted hair. Perfect for bridal wear and royal-themed parties.
11. Deepika Padukone’s Chennai Express Red Saree (2013)
Deepika Padukone’s appearance in the classic red saree with golden border in Chennai Express provided the South Indian bride look with an ageless classic silhouette. Her golden border red-stitched saree brought South Indian bridal style to the nation’s forefront.
Fashion advice: Wear a red saree for the classic wedding look and complement it with temple jewelry and a neat bun with flowers at the crown. Pair it with delicate gold zari work embroidered design, gold bangles, and stud earrings in ethnic style. Match it up with a bun and jasmine flowers for the best all-time classic, wedding-perfect look.
12. Sonam Kapoor’s Cannes Saree (2014)
Sonam revolutionised new ethnic wear with her chic pre-draped saree at Cannes, blending contemporary and traditional looks neatly. Sonam’s draped saree in edgy style was a fashion-forward commentary on the global scene. The elegant but cutting-edge silhouette defied convention between tradition and high fashion, proving that Indian wear can be red carpet-perfect, chic, and dramatic without ever losing its ethnic charm.
Styling secrets: Make use of concept or pre-draped sarees to get that high-fashion vibe. Pick ruffled, belted, or cape-style sarees with off-shoulder blouses. Go for metallic or solid shades, and finish the look with sleek hair and stilettos. Perfect for glam Indo-western party nights.
13. Alia Bhatt’s Yellow Lehenga in Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania (2014)
Alia’s sun-kissed yellow lehenga with floral decoration was the bridesmaids’ and party folks’ favorite. This sunflower yellow lehenga offered playfulness and youthfulness to celebratory fashion. It was the most preferred choice of attire for day wedding ceremonies like mehndi and haldi, praised for brightness, lightness.
Fashion tricks: Light shades with floral motifs and light embroidery make a great idea for pre-wedding events. Pair bold colors like sunflower yellow or lime green with thread or mirror embroidery. Pair lesser jewellery, loose waves, and flowers in the hair for a bright, playful bridesmaid look.
14. Priyanka Chopra’s Gold Saree from Dostana (2008)
Priyanka’s gold metallic saree was full of bold glamour and confidence. It had that sharp, polished shine that made it a hit for cocktail nights and high-end events. The look was fiery but still rooted in tradition, creating a balance between elegance and power. It quickly became a go-to party trend.
Fashion guidance: Team a metallic or gold saree with dramatic earrings for a a modern, glamorous look. Go for metallic colors or sequined sarees in champagne, bronze, or gold. Combine with sleek hair, smokey eyes, and chunky earrings for an eye-catching party-perfect appearance. Ideal for party nights or fashion galas.
15. Anushka Sharma’s Pastel Wedding Lehenga (2017)
Anushka Sharma’s soft pink wedding lehenga changed the game. Instead of the usual red, she wore a pastel floral one — and everyone loved it. It felt calm, fresh, and classy. After that, brides started picking soft colors over loud ones. Her look made pastel bridal wear a big, lasting trend.
Fashion tricks: Pick soft pastel lehengas like peach, pink, or lilac with light thread work and a little shine. Keep your makeup soft, wear pretty jewelry, and tie your hair in a flower bun. This look is great for garden weddings or classy receptions — simple, fresh, and bridal.
Personal insight
Grew up glued to Bollywood, not realizing it was my fashion school. From Madhuri’s dupattas to Anushka’s pastel lehenga—these iconic looks still shape how I dress today.
FAQs
1. What are some of the most iconic Bollywood outfits of all time?
From Sridevi’s dreamy white saree in Chandni to Madhuri Dixit’s stunning lehenga in Dil To Pagal Hai, and Deepika Padukone’s bold red saree in Chennai Express — Bollywood has given us looks that are pure fashion gold. These outfits didn’t just dress stars — they set trends that still inspire wardrobes today.
2. How has Bollywood influenced global fashion trends?
Bollywood has taken Indian fashion global — think vibrant colors, intricate embroidery, and bold, beautiful fusion wear. Style icons like Priyanka Chopra, Kareena Kapoor, and Aishwarya Rai have rocked Indian looks on international red carpets, putting ethnic wear firmly in the global spotlight.
3. What makes a Bollywood outfit truly iconic?
It’s more than just fabric — an iconic Bollywood outfit captures a moment, a character, and an emotion. It stands out for its design, storytelling, and cultural impact. These are the looks that stay with us long after the credits roll.
4. How can I wear Bollywood-inspired fashion in everyday life?
Start small! A flowy saree, a fusion kurti, or a vibrant lehenga skirt can bring that Bollywood magic to your wardrobe. Pair them with detailed embroidery, bold prints, and statement jewelry — like chunky jhumkas or chokers — to channel that star-studded flair without going over the top.
5. Which Bollywood actresses are true fashion trendsetters?
Deepika Padukone, Kareena Kapoor, and Sonam Kapoor are absolute game-changers. From Deepika’s timeless sarees to Kareena’s effortless glam and Sonam’s edgy, high-fashion looks — these women redefine style and set the tone for what’s hot in Indian fashion.
Conclusion
These 15 vintage Bollywood looks didn’t just stay on screen—they kicked off fashion trends that still inspire us today. From iconic lehengas to old-school sarees, Bollywood gave our wardrobes a serious glow-up.
Bollywood fashion is not trends; it’s style, art, and heritage. With every new Bollywood transformation, there will be new trends, but these timeless costumes will be immortalized in the Indian fashion history books forever.
What’s your favorite Bollywood fashion? Let us know in the comments!
Anjali Gupta is a passionate advocate for Indian ethnic wear, specializing in sarees and blouses. With deep knowledge of traditional Indian fabrics and contemporary styles, she bridges the gap between heritage and modern fashion. Through her writing, Anjali provides practical tips on draping sarees, styling blouses, and embracing timeless elegance with confidence. Her work inspires women to celebrate cultural traditions while experimenting with fresh, stylish ideas.
