9 iconic bollywood wedding outfits that we aren't getting over anytime soon

Yves Saint Laurent once famously said, "Fashions fade, style is eternal." These iconic Bollywood wedding outfits are proof of just that. Timeless and trendy all in one, each ensemble is a masterclass in festive styling, be it Preity Zinta’s icy blue lehenga in Kal Ho Naa Ho or Priyanka Chopra Jonas grooving to 'Desi Girl' in Dostana. Here are our top picks that are clearly hard to top!

Alia Bhatt in Student of the Year  

We know Alia Bhatt’s shimmery outfit in the song 'Radha' is iconic, but you can’t overlook the whimsical allure of this traditional Indian ensemble that is the epitome of elegance and grace. The vibrant lehenga choli perfectly complements Shanaya’s delicate innocence, with its intricate embroidery and embellishments that reflect the festive occasion. What makes this scene even more memorable is the melodious montage playing in the background, a befitting tune for this moment that speaks volumes, even sans any dialogue. 

Preity Zinta in Kal Ho Naa Ho

An unconventional choice at the time, Preity’s sky blue lehenga continues to be the blueprint for brides, even today. Designed by maestro Manish Malhotra, it features detailed embroidery, silver zari work, sequins, and mirror work on a nude base, making for a show-stopping look. The draping of the dupatta became a fashion statement in itself, with one over the arm and the other flowing effortlessly in the background. And who can forget Preity’s trademark dimples that took the look from good to great?

Rani Mukherji in Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham

Rani’s look as Naina was dazzling yet demure, achieving that sweet spot between understated glam and festive finesse. The glittering choli with pastel hues stole the show in the song Say Shava Shava with its voluminous A-line silhouette. The fitted blouse with a moderately plunging neckline and sheer dupatta playfully placed over Rani’s shoulders, made for a complete look. Glitzy yet graceful, this one’s got the full package!

Kareena Kapoor Khan in Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham

Poo looked PHAT—if you know what we mean—in this peach-pink lehenga complete with ornate gold embroidery and sequins. The asymmetrical cut of the blouse, along with the palazzo pants, was not just stylish, but also practical, a rare occurrence for women’s ethnic wear! With replicas continuing to be made today, this outfit is here to stay and slay. After all, it’s the couture queen Poo herself.

Deepika Padukone in Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani

Deepika had every girl manifesting this exact sari and it’s a no brainer why. The look, which stood in stark contrast to her character, Naina’s style in the first half of the film, was refreshingly modern and draped to sartorial precision. Drenched in a striking cobalt blue featuring a bronzed gold border, Padukone carried it off with effortless class (as expected) in the song Badtameez Dil, demonstrating it as a perfect choice for dances. A welcome change from the otherwise elaborate lehengas that dominate Bollywood’s wedding scenes, this sari has earned its legendary tag.

Priyanka Chopra Jonas in Dostana

No one does desi glam quite like the OG desi girl, Priyanka herself! This was six yards of pure beauty and brilliance, that reinvented the styling of the sari altogether. A definite head turner for cocktail parties or wedding receptions, the nude metallic gold draping with its matching bikini cut blouse has the undeniable potential to claim the spotlight, anywhere. Daring and dreamy, it’s sure to rock your world!

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan in Jodhaa Akbar

Aishwarys makes a case for regal reverie in this Neeta Lulla creation that’s a magical melange of Rajputana and Mughal styles, a direct ode to the film’s historic theme. The deep red lehenga, heavily embroidered in zarodozi, was featured in the Academy Museum's "Color in Motion" exhibition and applauded by fashion connoisseurs from across the globe! Ideal for traditional themed occasions, the outfit personified opulence and stood as a vestige of India’s rich cultural heritage. Fit for a queen, indeed!

Katrina Kaif in Baar Baar Dekho

Playful yet poised, Katrina was all that and more in this vibrant outfit that her character, Diya wore for her mehendi function in the film. Paired with a matching blouse, the ensemble offers a contemporary take on festive Indian wear. Lightweight with pink floral work, this co-ord style lehenga boasts a convenient silhouette that is perfect for celebrations. Unpredictable and gorgeous, it’s an extension of the film title in itself.

Anushka Sharma in Ae Dil Hai Mushkil

A vision in ivory, Anushka’s Nikaah look in this Karan Johar film became the subject of virality in no time. The Manish Malhotra lehenga does not shy away from grandeur, featuring cultural elements such as the trailing dupatta and a bold presence of red. Don’t miss the intricate thread work that draws its inspiration from Lucknow’s regal past. The muted hues of salmon, pink and peach splashed across the outfit are accessorised with an emerald polki necklace and a smokey eye, making the bride the cynosure of all eyes. We’d say yes to this dress, every time!

Lead image credit: IMDb

Also read: 8 timeless sari and jewellery styles that are perfect for your wedding trousseau

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