Popular designers that every Bollywood celebrity loves

“Fashion changes, style endures.” an iconic quote by the renowned fashion icon Coco Chanel, whose simple mention brings to mind, classic and quintessential fashion which is beautiful and timeless.

Back home, fashion is almost synonymous with Bollywood, which is the true trailblazer for new styles and trends. From sari and choker trends, impeccable gowns and intricately adorned lehengas, Bollywood has got it all. This impeccable sense of fashion is all due to the dedicated and talented designers who are proud of their indigenous craft and modern sense of style. We bring to you a list of desi designers, absolutely adored by popular celebrities and worn by them on numerous occasions.

Manish Malhotra

This list had to begin with the most famous stalwart designer who dresses up Bollywood divas in regal glamour. Known for his tailor-made designs and opulent embroidered lehengas and saris, he is the go-to designer for every Indian celebrity for movies and award events. His signature style of heavy embellishments and long drapes is worth a mention. Among other awards and accolades, he was awarded with the first-ever IIFA Best Costume award for the blockbuster movie ‘Mohabbatein’.

Sabyasachi Mukherjee

The artsy and maximalist designer proud of his rich Indian heritage creates out of the world costumes and retail stores alike. They are an experience of their own kind. “Brides of Sabyasachi” is the popular term used by Indians and on the brand’s Instagram to display the subtle and meaningful beauty of Indian brides adorning a Sabyasachi attire on their big day. From breaking gender stereotypes by showcasing body inclusive models and using plush and rich materials of uncompromised quality, for all their garments, a Sabyaschi bride is truly symbolic of the modern Indian bride rooted in tradition.

Anamika Khanna

Sonam Kapoor pushed the envelope with this designer wearing a pale pink sari on the Cannes red carpet in 2014. The designer has led the way for young Indian women to wear improvised versions of the iconic Indian garment with much pride. Sonam Kapoor chose to complete this Cannes look with a royal choker from her mom’s stunning collection of well kept jewellery. This look never gets old and even today women of all ages adorn the dhoti-sari with a cape to a lot of festivals. Anamika Khanna is synonymous with fashion that breathes new life into age-old classics with her modern twists on them.

Falguni and Shane Peacock

This is a designer duo that does rich and opulent occasion wear. We can all reminisce about the stunning feather detailed sari worn by Jacqueline Fernandez at an event in Mumbai in 2019. The sari was a dream set in pink with an equally intricately crafted sweet-heart neckline blouse, replete with detailed sequin work all over, true to the designer’s style. Falguni and Shane Peacock have also dressed up the pretty Sara Ali Khan among other great actors with splendid outfits. The duo is known for creative, heavily embellished silhouettes that complement the Indian form in a pastel and dreamy palette of colors. 

Gauri and Nainika

The effervescent sister duo who started out back in January 2002, are known for their princessy but elegant vibe. The duo who have a degree in fashion from the esteemed NIFT, Delhi are a regular with Bollywood divas. Their range includes cocktail dresses to bespoke voluminous gowns with feminine details. Their take on fashion is fresh with inspiration from European art history and culture.

Shivan and Narresh

The first designers to venture exclusively into swimwear, resort wear and celebration wear, they have carved their own niche in the fashion industry. Their clients boast of Kajol, Shilpa Shetty and Queen B herself. With Beyonce wearing Shivan & Narresh, it's no wonder that the designer label is a hit with Indian A-list actors and actresses too. Their signature style includes bold and contrasting colors and prints along with textured fabrics in stunning cuts.

After all, “Dress to impress” isn't just a quote or notion. It, in fact, underlines the essential truth - that an outfit speaks volumes about a person. Which of these phenomenal designers are you going to pick for your own big day or a close friend’s wedding?