Being a millennial, I can almost vouch that there has never been a more interesting time in Bollywood than the 90s when it comes to fashion. The impetus was about creating a modern look that was deep-rooted in Indian sensibilities. Decade-defining movies such as Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, Dil Toh Pagal Hai, Hum Apke Hai Kaun, and Lakshya not only cemented themselves into the cultural zeitgeist but also dished out unique sartorial inspirations.
An era rightly belonging to the voluminous curly hair, thick eyebrows, chiffon sarees, and micro-mini skirts, the style stars be it our evergreen Madhuri Dixit or Karisma Kapoor flaunted some of the most iconic fashion choices apart from creating magic onscreen.
And despite dramatic changes happening in the Indian fashion realm since the golden era, the divas continue to take the internet by storm with their iconic styles. Ahead we round up our favorite divas and their sartorial inclinations.
1) Madhuri Dixit Nene
Madhuri Dixit Nene has worn all the ensembles you associate with a celebratory look. Best related to glossy lips, porcelain skin, and lightly messy hair, Madhuri's well-thought-out look is something we will always love.
The Bonafide star has always been an ardent fan of lace, prints, embroideries, and sequins for her off-duty looks. There is no disputing that any hand-embroidered kurta set gets the stamp of approval of an ideal wedding outfit and Madhuri Dixit Nene guides us on how to do it tastefully.
The actor-designer pantsuit crafted by celebrated couturier Falguni Shane Peacock is the definition of comfort and ease this festive and party season. Hum Aapke Hai Kaun famed actor, lights up the frame with a pair of diamond earrings and her infectious smile. A beauty icon since her first debut, she continues to look more radiant and age-like fine wine.
2) Karisma Kapoor
When it comes to Karisma Kapoor, it's evident that toned-down by no means spells out vanilla; her wardrobe is rife with jacket lehengas, breezy co-ords, and seasonless dresses. The style icon leans to fuss-free but elegant outfits that are mostly about chic flowy silhouettes that don't hinder her swag while also incorporating distinctive elements like a cape. Her latest outfit by Anamika Khanna attests to this fact.
To let the custom-fit skirt set shine, Kapoor maintained a clean and sophisticated look by opting for a half-up-half-down hairdo, statement earrings, and pared-down makeup.
Kapoor does not give into ultra-feminine frills, layers of accessories, or confusing prints but rather chooses to treat her fans with satisfying clean, and succinct styling. This black tulle skirt and jacket set from Jade by Monica and Karisma is the actor's way of challenging Indian fashion which she feels is mostly confined to wedding wear.
3) Shilpa Shetty Kundra
Shilpa Shetty Kundra, known for her quirky Sunday binges on Instagram and her effortless looks followed by her commitment to fitness continues to reign supreme even after 27 years. The Dhadkan star, Shilpa, owns every look she wears, an advantage that she has used to inspire her fans. From embroidered jackets to pre-draped sarees, capes, and hybrid gowns, everything is fair in her style book.
But a deep delve into her style files proves her biasedness for traditional silhouettes with a contemporary makeover. Her Punit Balana 3-piece draped skirt set, embedded with sophistication is a bold number for any event.
This cape set from AK OK by Anamika Khanna is one of the few cheat lessons from the actor on how to elevate a basic look for a daytime event. Over the years, the actor has displayed her evolving taste in sartorial selections.
4) Juhi Chawla
Known for her cheerful spirit and smiling countenance, Juhi Chawla has been one of the most loved in Bollywood. The 1984 Miss India beauty pageant winner, Chawla not only is celebrated for her acting prowess but also for her exemplary fashion sense. After having reigned the cover pages of the top magazines in the 2000s, the 54-year-old is now a loyalist of Indian ensembles.
The diva that once made A-line button-down skirts, off-shoulder tops, printed jackets, and co-ord sets popular is now mostly seen in festive-friendly pieces like this Sheetal Batra creation in silk chanderi, adorned with gota-patti work. Complementing her look was a statement kundan jewellery set, matching Maang Tika and simple makeup for a show-stealing impact.
While we have come a long way from the 90s, there is nothing that can beat the magnificence of a classic black kurta set by Rohit Bal featuring rich zari embroidery details. The studded choker necklace followed by her earrings and the middle-parted hairdo accentuates her look.
5) Sonali Bendre
Sonali Bendre; 's fashion choices are laced with classicism. From timeless Anarkali sets to opulent dresses, her preferences range from humble to luxe essence. Two-time Filmfare Awards winner, Bendre was once every man's heartthrob because of her gorgeous styling. The notable actor who rose to fame with the 'Humma Humma’ song from Bombay, is now dropping jaws with her exclusive couture selection.
Reaching into her desirable wardrobe, Bendre gave a new lease of life to an Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla Anarkali set by pairing it with pearl necklaces, rings, dangles, and matching bangles.
In a Rozal dress crafted by Tribe by Amrapali, Sonali is seen captivating her audience with her enchanting appeal and serene demeanor. Accessorizing to the point, the actor chooses statement necklaces and free-flowing tresses to ace up the look.
6) Kajol
An actor whose acting career began as early as 17, Kajol only rose to prominence in 1993. through the cult-classic Baazigar. But it is not only her flawless showcasing of her characters and exceeding the audience's expectations but Kajol's versatility also was seen in her fashion choices too.
Over the years, Kajol has always maintained distance with OTT embellishments but has rather opted for muted and earthy shades. As much as she experimented with her roles in movies, Kajol has proudly tried on everything; from maxi, and bodycon to boho dresses, pantsuits, pastel sarees, etc. Recently though she finds refuge in Indo-fusion outfits and this Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla is proof.
These days, Kajol effortlessly juggles muted shades and bright hues. She makes a case in Anita Dongre's silk zardozi pantsuit in a recent film promotion, inspiring us to try on a unique look this wedding season.
The style stars from the past make maximalist impact with their ethereal outfits. Each of them has made a name for themselves both in the world of cinema and fashion alike. Check out other celebrity styles at Aza Fashions to get inspired and set up your moldboard for festivities, weddings, and other celebrations.
