Manish Malhotra's Iconic Outfits Make a Stunning Return at India Couture Week

Renowned Indian designer Manish Malhotra made a spectacular return to India Couture Week in New Delhi after a five‑year hiatus, treating fashion aficionados to a showcase of his most iconic creations across three decades. Held at the Taj Palace, the event was styled as a lavish “couture party” rather than the usual runway show. Guests enjoyed gourmet food, bespoke cocktails, live music by Jonita Gandhi, and immersive fashion rather than just a typical catwalk presentation.

The highlight of the evening: a curated array of Malhotra’s most iconic creations, each garment a cinematic milestone. Kajol’s emerald green lehenga from Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge sparked instant recognition. Equally unforgettable was Kareena Kapoor’s peach sharara from Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, followed by Priyanka Chopra’s shimmering saree from Dostana. Each ensemble was accompanied by ambient storytelling, transporting guests back to the golden era of Bollywood fashion.

The collection also included a regal Banarasi saree worn by Aishwarya Rai to Cannes recently, remade with subtle updates for the runway. An archival red-and-gold lehenga once worn by Rekha was reimagined, allowing the audience a rare glimpse into vintage glamour.

Brazilian supermodel Alessandra Ambrosio served as showstopper, closing the show in two standout looks—a sequinned saree and a pearl-embellished cocktail lehenga—harmonising global fashion with traditional Indian craftsmanship in arresting style.

Rather than detached catwalk pacing, the event was designed as a couture party with live music, bespoke cocktails and immersive displays. Manish described the evening as a reinvention of the traditional runway, remarking that the focus was on creating a dynamic couture celebration rather than just showcasing garments on a catwalk. The event, held on Day 4 of ICW 2025, was in association with Reliance Brands and FDCI.

Ultimately, the showcase felt like a journey through three decades of film and fashion, redefining couture events while honouring Bollywood’s visual legacy with reinvigorated splendour.