Bollywood's most iconic style moments on the Cannes red carpet

The annual Cannes Film Festival, scheduled from May 13 to May 25 this year, is not only a global celebration of cinema—featuring a blend of both mainstream and independent films—but also a stage for some of the most glamorous red carpet moments. Over the years, India has delivered iconic fashion moments that continue to inspire. From Aishwarya Rai Bachchan’s Cinderella-esque Michael Cinco gown in 2017 to Deepika Padukone’s dramatic Louis Vuitton look in 2022, and more recently, Sara Ali Khan’s regal Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla debut in 2023, the Cannes red carpet has often doubled as a runway for Indian fashion and storytelling. With the 78th edition around the corner, here’s a retrospective of Bollywood’s most glamorous appearances at the festival.

AISHWARYA RAI BACHCHAN

A regular at Cannes as the L'Oréal global ambassador, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan’s looks are one of the most-anticipated among viewers, and for all the right reasons. If we had to pick just one, it would be this cinderella-coded frosty blue ball gown by UAE-based Filipino designer Michael Cinco. The floor-sweeping outfit had onlookers in awe with its intricate embroidery, layers of tulle, and befitting pleats. Taken from Cinco’s Impalpable Dream of Versailles collection, the outfit was inspired by the painting of Infanta Maria Theresa, as shared by the designer himself. It created a fairytale moment only she could do justice to! 

DEEPIKA PADUKONE

The epitome of grace and glamour, this look of Deepika Padukone was everything you’d hope for from a Zuhair Murad creation. The all-sheer, sleeveless ivory gown paired with an over-shoulder cape made for a dreamy yet dramatic look. Embellished in delicate floral lace, Murad’s design stood out for its fishtail silhouette and plunging neckline. Complete with Lorraine Schwartz diamond earrings and Nicholas Kirkwood heels, this look ticked all the right boxes!

Ratna Pathak Shah

The veteran actor’s debut at Cannes was one for the books, as she handpicked a Chanderi yellow sari from her own collection! Paired with a periwinkle blouse and custom-made jacket by the Mumbai-headquartered label, re-ceremonial, the artist’s look felt like an extension of her persona: honest and authentic. A proud moment for Indian textile on western shores with a true representation of its timeless allure and sustainability.

PREITY ZINTA

Preity Zinta returned to Cannes after over a decade in this ethereal Vivienna Lorikeet gown, which also made an appearance at the 2024 MET Gala. The dress, named "Nyra," is a hand-beaded bridal creation adorned with sequins, pearls, and clear crystals, creating a charming visual. Drawing from the 'coquette core' aesthetic, the backless design complete with a mermaid-style skirt, fringe pearl drops and silk bow sleeves, showcased Lorikeet's commitment to luxurious craftsmanship.

SONAM KAPOOR

Sonam Kapoor has never failed to impress with her Cannes red carpet looks over the years. In this one, for instance, Kapoor adorns a pale pink net saree-dress designed by Anamika Khanna, along with Jimmy Choo shoes and a Ferragamo clutch, effortlessly blending the classics with couture. Soft hues dominated the mood board, and the actor proved, yet again, that she can effortlessly blend traditional with trendy with comfort.

ADITI RAO HYDARI

Aditi Rao Hydari outdid her own viral Gajagamini walk from Heeramandi when she walked the red carpet in this custom black and white gown by Gaurav Gupta, from his Spring 2024 collection 'Aarohanam'. Monochromatic yet minimal, the velvety outfit is poetry in motion with voluminous drapes and fluidity at its core. Perfectly styled with a neat and sleek updo, Hydari’s look was a masterclass in understated glamour. 

Vijay Varma

Vijay Varma played the perfect muse to Gaurav Gupta's creation! One of the rare male actors who dares to diverge when it comes to fashion, Varma’s red carpet look was dapper. The tailored black double-breasted suit, accentuated by its sharp lines and sharper silhouette, with an upturned collar and black pussycat bow added a unique touch to the otherwise classic look. Fashion forward in all its glory!

Anushka Sharma

Anushka Sharma’s Cannes debut look was an extension of the actor herself—extravagant yet understated. The off-shoulder cream hued Richard Quinn dress from the British designer's Fall 2023 ready-to-wear collection, paired with Chopard earrings and a neat updo, made for an effortlessly stylish ensemble. We’re still obsessing over those 3D floral embellishments and lattice work on the satin gown, a befitting ode to textural contrasts. As for that silhouette—no notes necessary.
 

All images: Getty Images

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