Welcome to the ultimate deep dive into the glitz, the glamour, and the occasionally questionable wardrobe choices that define the Bollywood elite on the global stage. For decades, our favorite divas have graced international red carpets, from the sun-drenched steps of the Palais des Festivals in Cannes to the avant-garde steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. But let’s be real—not every look is a masterpiece. While some outfits have secured their place in fashion history as legendary slays, others have left fans scratching their heads and critics sharpening their pens. Today, CineIndya Home takes you through the most unforgettable moments where fashion met the fierce glare of the spotlight.
The Queen of Cannes: Aishwarya Rai Bachchan
When you talk about the red carpet, you have to start with the woman who paved the way. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has been a regular at the Cannes Film Festival for over two decades. Her journey has been nothing short of a cinematic evolution. We all remember her 2017 appearance, where she literally stopped time in a powder-blue Michael Cinco gown. It wasn’t just a dress; it was a cultural event. Looking like a modern-day Cinderella, Aishwarya proved that she remains the undisputed queen of Glamour Photos. The sheer volume of the gown, the intricate embroidery, and her poise created a moment that fashionistas still reference today.
However, even the most seasoned pro can have a ‘what were they thinking’ moment. Flashback to 2016, when Aishwarya decided to pair a floral Rami Kadi gown with… wait for it… bright purple lipstick. The internet went into a literal meltdown. Was it bold? Yes. Was it experimental? Absolutely. But did it work? The jury is still out. While some praised her for breaking boundaries, others felt it distracted from her natural beauty. It remains one of the most discussed ‘fails’ in red carpet history, proving that even a goddess can make a risky choice that doesn’t quite land. For more behind-the-scenes tea on this, check out our Hot Gossip section.
The Global Disruptor: Priyanka Chopra Jonas
Priyanka Chopra doesn’t just walk red carpets; she conquers them. Her transition from Bollywood to Hollywood was marked by a series of high-stakes fashion choices. The most iconic of them all? The 2017 Met Gala Ralph Lauren trench coat gown. With a train so long it required its own zip code, Priyanka became the face of a thousand memes. But here’s the thing—she owned it. It was edgy, it was relevant, and it followed the theme to a T. That look didn’t just slay; it announced her arrival as a global fashion force. You can see how the world reacted in our Viral Socials archive.
Priyanka Chopra’s Ralph Lauren trench coat gown is the longest in Met Gala history. pic.twitter.com/fK3E1Z4pI5
— Fashion (@fashion) May 1, 2017
But with high risk comes high controversy. At the 2019 Met Gala, Priyanka’s ‘Camp’ look—a Dior Haute Couture gown with a thorny crown and wild hair—divided fans. Some called it theatrical brilliance, while others felt it was an over-the-top ‘fail’. It was a moment that showed the thin line between being a visionary and being a victim of the theme. Regardless of where you stand, you can’t deny that she made everyone talk. Her ability to spark conversation is exactly why we love following her every move, from movie Trailer Reviews to her latest fashion outings.
The Evolution of Deepika Padukone
Deepika Padukone’s red carpet journey is a lesson in growth. In her early international appearances, she often played it safe, opting for elegant but somewhat forgettable slip dresses. But as she grew into her role as a global ambassador, the ‘Safe’ Deepika was replaced by a ‘Stunner’. Her 2019 Met Gala appearance in a metallic pink Zac Posen gown was a masterclass in ‘Camp Barbie’. It was structured, it was 3D-printed, and it was perfectly executed.
But the road to icons is paved with experiments. Deepika’s 2019 neon green Giambattista Valli gown at Cannes remains one of her most polarizing looks. It was a massive cloud of tulle that some called ‘avant-garde fashion’ and others labeled a ‘neon disaster’. The silhouette was so huge it seemed to swallow her up. Critics argued that such a stunning face didn’t need that much fabric to make a statement. It was a moment that reminded everyone that even the most beautiful stars can sometimes be overwhelmed by their own outfits. If you love seeing high-res shots of these moments, our Music & Songs page often features the glamorous stars in their cinematic elements too.
The Sonam Kapoor Phenomenon
We cannot discuss fashion without the original Bollywood fashionista: Sonam Kapoor. Sonam changed the game by bringing high fashion to the Indian masses. Her red carpet moments are rarely ‘safe’. Whether it was her Anamika Khanna caped sarees or her Ralph & Russo gowns, she always brought something new to the table. However, her 2017 Met Gala look—a feathery Elie Saab creation—faced significant backlash. The feathers were so voluminous that they felt a bit dated and unflattering. It was a rare miss for someone who usually hits the mark. But that’s the beauty of Sonam; she isn’t afraid to fail. She knows that to be a trendsetter, you have to be willing to be the center of a debate.
Conclusion: Why These Moments Matter
In the end, red carpet fashion is more than just clothes. It’s about identity, risk-taking, and the global perception of Indian talent. Whether it’s Aishwarya’s princess moment, Priyanka’s boss-babe trench, or Deepika’s experimental tulle, these women are representing an industry that is larger than life. For every ‘fail’ that goes viral, there are a dozen ‘slays’ that inspire the next generation of designers and fans. Keep following CineIndya for all the latest updates on your favorite stars, from the hottest gossip to the most stunning visuals. We are your front-row seat to the ever-evolving world of glamour.
