Alia Bhatt, Bollywood’s reigning queen, is not only known for her stellar acting skills but also for her impeccable style. And when it comes to sustainable fashion, she’s leading the charge. Remember her royal wedding to Ranbir Kapoor in 2022? Every aspect of her bridal looks was meticulously analyzed, and it seems the actress is determined to give these spectacular pieces more than just one moment in the spotlight.
Last year, she surprised everyone by re-wearing her exquisite Sabyasachi wedding sari to an awards ceremony. Now, she’s taken sustainability a step further, opting to wear her pink patchwork Manish Malhotra lehenga, initially designed for her Mehndi ceremony, to a Diwali party. As stylist Ami Patel aptly put it on Instagram, “Recycled the up-cycled.” This lehenga, a masterpiece of intricate craftsmanship, tells a compelling story.
It took 3,000 hours of dedication from Mijwan women to create this unique piece. They meticulously pieced together approximately 180 textile patches, incorporating block prints and intricately embroidered swathes of fabric. The lehenga showcases the finest Indian artistry, blending inimitable chikankari and Kashmiri embroidery with a variety of textures, including bandhani, banarasi brocade, jacquard, and Kaccha resham knots. Elements from Bhatt’s existing pieces were also woven into the design, adding a touch of bohemian allure.
The garment’s texture and richness are further enhanced by the inclusion of coins and tassels, representing Bhatt’s exquisite taste and showcasing skills from diverse corners of India. For this second outing, Bhatt opted for a different styling approach. She ditched the loose beachy tresses she sported for her wedding in favor of a tousled updo. The emeralds from her mehndi jewelry were replaced by Kundan (traditional gold) pieces and classic chandbali earrings, with her neck left bare. The makeup, quintessentially Alia, featured rosy cheeks, freckled natural skin, and tinted lips.
By repurposing this stunning lehenga, Alia Bhatt sends a powerful message about sustainable fashion and the importance of appreciating the craft and heritage embedded within these unique pieces. She’s not only inspiring fans but also leading the way for a more eco-conscious future in the world of fashion.
