Manish Malhotra just the name says it all. You know he’s a force to reckon with in the Indian fashion industry with his exquisite anarkalis, blinged out saris and lehengas that create a statement. He’s close friends with a select circle of tight knit consisting of Shah Rukh Khan, Karan Johar, Kareena and Karishma Kapoor and Aishwarya Rai. In fact when Karan Johar celebrated his 40th birthday it was Malhotra who took it upon himself to do all the arrangements and decor for his BFF. Kareena’s wedding outfit was designed by him which was pretty obvious as his bridal collection is heralded to be one of the best.
While his runway collections and red-carpet appearances have been well documented. I’m going to throw light on his styling capabilities. You can easily credit him for ushering Bollywood into a fashionable lot in the early ’90s. Gone were the ugly tights and shoulder pads. The heroines realized looking good was important and that’s where Manish came in. He has been credited with giving Karisma Kapoor a complete makeover. Having no formal education in fashion, he’s racked up an impressive repertoire of films. I’m gonna list some of his most fashionable movies.
1) Dostana
If any person could put Priyanka Chopra in a bikini it would be him. The gold sequinned swimsuit certified Miss Piggy Chops as a glamazon and sex object.
2) Chameli
Probably Kareena’s most critically acclaimed role, she played a commercial sex worker. Since the film scene spanned a night, she just had one costume. But it was the bright red sari with a low-cut blue blouse that remains one of the most iconic looks from Kapoor.
3) Kal Ho Na Ho
A chic Preity Zinta outfitted in Dior and Saif carrying a Louis Vuitton briefcase. For the Nikhil Advani directed movie Manish Malhotra set the trend for outfitting major stars in luxury garments.
4) Heroine
Malhotra is known to work closely with Kareena. For Heroine where she essayed the role of a fading actress – he gave her a whole range of outfits. Not to forget her sexy Jimmy Choo’s she sported throughout the movie.
5) Om Shanti Om
For Farah Khan‘s film Om Shanti Om, the film was set in the ’60s – Malhotra outfitted Deepika in all retro glory. Bouffants, winged eyeliner and pop colours to boot. The film was a visual treat for the eyes.
6) Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham
Aside from Kareena, Malhotra also has an ardent fan in Kajol. For the mega-block buster Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham he outfitted in Kareena who played the lovable but stylish Poo in sexy bustier tops and minis. For Kajol, embroidered saris and rich fabrics played a huge role to transform her into the rich, dutiful wife.
What’s your favourite from the list?