How Kareena Kapoor’s Iconic Fashion Has Shaped Indian Girls’ Style For 25 Years
Kareena Kapoor has been a fashion trendsetter ever since she entered the film industry. As she completes 25 years as an actor, here are 7 of her iconic looks that redefined style in India.
Before OOTDs (outfits of the day) were a thing, magazines and movies were the only sources to know fashion trends. Out of all of them, Kareena Kapoor was the common denominator for everything fashion-related for an entire generation. As she marks 25 years in the industry, here are our top favourite looks of the actor and fashion icon.
1. The Haute Couture In Kambakkht Ishq
Before Kambakkht Ishq, movies rarely showcased fashion as extravagantly as this one did, thanks to Kareena’s stunning wardrobe, styled by Aki Narula. The film was like a moving Vogue magazine. Aki pulled out all the stops with designers like Dolce & Gabbana, Roberto Cavalli, Emporio Armani, and many more.
2. Salwars In Jab We Met
In Jab We Met, Kareena single-handedly made salwars cool and modern. Pairing them with juttis and a black corset, she redefined traditional Indian wear, making it versatile enough to wear them even to a club. With Jab We Met, she made salwars popular; and not something associated with just older generation.
3. Kohl And Kurbaan
Delhi winters suddenly became synonymous with Kareena’s kohled eyes from Kurbaan. In addition to her dramatic eye makeup, she effortlessly combined Anarkali skirts with cashmere sweaters, making layered winter fashion stylish yet cozy.
4. Full Marks For Size Zero
Kareena introduced the term “Size Zero” into the mainstream, sparking a nationwide discussion. Her lean, athletic look in Tashan — with low-waist jeans, boots, and a white vest — became the epitome of cool. Her portrayal of a strong, independent woman, mixed with unforgettable fashion moments, solidified her status as a style icon.
5. The No-Makeup Look
Before the "no-makeup" makeup trend even began, it was Kareena who pulled off a bare-faced look in her debut movie, Refugee. While everyone else wished for a glamorous entry into Bollywood, Kareena stood out by just being herself. Then came Asoka and Yuva, where zero makeup and pure confidence became her go-to look even off-screen.
6. The Sindoor Look
Kareena’s post-wedding appearance, complete with a saree and sindoor, became an iconic moment. It felt like Bollywood’s equivalent of a royal debut. Her traditional yet elegant look made a lasting impact, inspiring many to embrace the sindoor and saree. Her decision to marry at the peak of her career also served as a statement about following one’s heart, regardless of societal expectations.
7. Bringing Back The Backless
Lines like “Piche ka kahan hain?” and “It’s backless” are etched in our brains like those contact numbers we learned before the advent of smartphones. Another favorite is her red, backless Manish Malhotra outfit in Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, particularly in the "You Are My Soniya" song, which deserves its own Wikipedia page.
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