India Couture Week 2025 is turning out to be one of the most unforgettable fashion moments of the year, and not just because of the clothes. The runway saw an exciting blend of international glamour and Indian tradition when Alessandra Ambrosio, former Victoria’s Secret Angel, walked for Manish Malhotra on July 26.
It was Alessandra’s first-ever runway appearance in India, and naturally, Malhotra made sure her debut was nothing short of iconic.
The Brazilian supermodel strutted down the ramp in two breathtaking looks from Malhotra’s collection. First up was a shimmering silver outfit that blurred the lines between traditional Indian wear and high-fashion glam. She wore a mermaid-style lehenga with a fitted waist, a crystal-studded blouse featuring a plunging neckline, and a dainty dupatta (more like strings, if you ask us) delicately draped over the shoulder, attached at the waist to give it a modern twist. She styled the look with statement diamonds, including a necklace, matching earrings, rings, and a haath phool.
Netizens had mixed reactions about her looks on Instagram. One wrote, “The pallu is on ozempic”. Another said, “Rage bait cause Priyanka in desi girl is still numero uno.”
Her second outfit was equally mesmerising: a strapless silver bustier with a peplum cut, paired with an A-line lehenga drenched in pearls and crystals. A ruby and diamond choker, matching earrings, and a mang tika added the perfect regal touch. For both looks, Alessandra kept her hair sleek in a twisted bun, allowing the clothes and jewellery to take centre stage.
The show didn’t just stop at couture, it paid tribute to Bollywood fashion through the decades. Manish Malhotra showcased some of his most iconic designs, like Priyanka Chopra’s “Desi Girl” sari and Kajol’s green lehenga from Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, stirring a wave of nostalgia among the audience.
Akshay Kumar’s return to the runway after 12 years
If Alessandra brought international charm to the stage, Akshay Kumar brought back old-school Bollywood royalty. The actor made his runway comeback after 12 years, walking for Falguni Shane Peacock on July 25 at the Taj Palace Hotel.
Clad in an ivory achkan-style sherwani, Akshay looked every bit the modern-day prince. The outfit had padded shoulders, fine silk thread embroidery, and gleaming gold buttons.
Adding his signature edge, Akshay wore sleek black sunglasses, which contrasted beautifully with the traditional elegance of the sherwani.
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Netizens were surprised the star had walked the runway, given his habit of waking up early in the morning. One said, “How did they get him to do this? Was this show at 6 AM??.” Another wrote, “Indian Taauji couture.”
The show was inspired by the opulence of Indian palaces, and the designers didn’t hold back. Sharing glimpses from the collection, FDCI captioned on Instagram: “This season at Falguni Shane Peacock India, we channel the opulence of maharajas and maharanis — from palace carvings and lush gardens to emeralds, veils, and regal drapes. Inspired by icons like the Laxmi Vilas Palace and Jaipur’s City Palace, the collection reimagines royal heritage for the modern maharani. An ode to India’s timeless grandeur and the artisans who keep its legacy alive.”
The runway itself was a visual treat, with classical pillars, lush greenery, and a set design that echoed Laxmi Vilas Palace and Jaipur’s City Palace, truly fit for couture royalty.
