You probably remember her for her bright, vibrant wardrobe choices in the movie Khoobsurat or her glamorous on-screen role in Ayesha. Even off-screen, Sonam Kapoor is a fashion queen. The diva has had several fashion-defining moments, from red carpets to movie premieres. From breathtaking sarees to a fusion of modern and traditional styles, here is an overview of Sonam Kapoor’s approach to everything couture.
Early days
Born to veteran actor Anil Kapoor and his wife Sunita Kapoor in Mumbai, Sonam Kapoor has grown up under the influence of movies. From working her first job as a waitress at the age of 15, to finally becoming a disciplined Bollywood debutante, her journey has followed an atypical curve. Kapoor has made herself a name not only as a good actress but also as a trendsetter when it comes to fashion. She started her career as an assistant director on the film sets of Black, directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali. On Mr Bhansali’s nudge, she made her acting debut with the film Saawariya alongside Ranbir Kapoor, in 2007. She finally broke into mainstream Bollywood with films like Delhi-6 (2009), I Hate Luv Stories and Aisha (2010). She received critical acclaim for her films Raanjhanaa (2013) and Neerja (2016).
Pioneering fusion fashion
Along with her sister, the actress has been known for putting together avant-garde, out of the box style ideas. Take, for instance, her Ritu Kumar structured kurta with pants and boots. Perfectly suited for a fireside chat that she wore it for. The brocade kurta featured intricate zari work, which would blend seamlessly into the setting, matching the occasion perfectly. So the next time you think of breaking away from your preconceived fashion molds, you needn't look for a mood board. The actress's Instagram feed can be your inspiration.
Sonam Kapoor has always set the benchmark for blending tradition with modernity. She brings a visual cocktail of heritage, which meets soft rebellion, with a fashion-forward sense of style. This was apparent when she wore sneakers over a tie-dye gown, while making an appearance for Converse India’s store launch.
Could you imagine a crossover between a denim garment and a saree? As for the actress, it is one of her statement-making styles. She was seen wearing a denim saree with a turtle neck and a brown belt while attending a promotional event for the movie, Veere Di Wedding. She chose a brown bag to complete the look, a touch of quiet elegance. Sonam Kapoor reminds us that style doesn’t have to be linear. Different styles can be borrowed from each other, mixed and matched with others to create a beautiful visual catalogue.
Fashion as wearable art
Sonam Kapoor’s relationship with fashion has always felt closer to art than to trend-chasing. Looking at clothes as composition, she composes a symphony of fabric, color and couture. To put together a style statement, she actively borrows from art, history and traditional craft elements, creating modern images. Her style is not only aesthetic for photos, but rather, it actively borrows from art, history and traditional Her styles are actively catalogued and put together, reflecting deliberate intention.
Sculptural silhouettes, sharply tailored jackets, and experimental drapes; these choices point toward the influences of modernism and aesthetics. Her Instagram feed is her style catalogue, and the artistic backdrops in the photography are not accidental but intentional, as if it were the meeting of the exterior and the art frames. In several appearances, she has worn garments that feel like moving artworks: textiles that privilege texture, embroidery that references miniature painting, or surfaces that invite closer looking. Her art-inspired fashion sits at the helm of heritage and contemporaneity, with traditional weaves, brocades, and silhouettes contextualized into contemporary settings, styled with statement jewellery and footwear that make it a rather unconventional pairing with the overall outfit. The actress works with designers actively to ensure that her style makes a statement with a concept-forward approach. So yes, there is drama and to her fashion choices, but it is controlled and deliberate, not only for the sake of statement-making. Her fashion is not simply borrowed from art but is an active participant in it.
Designer love
Sonam Kapoor has a way of turning any runway into a personal stage. She walks with intention, every step measured every drape and fold highlighted. and her appearance. Even the most experimental creations feel effortless and wearable. Her designer collaborations read like a curated gallery of Indian fashion. From Masaba Gupta’s playful prints to Rohit Bal’s regal opulence, and the intricate embroidery of Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla. She brings a clear understanding of each designer’s aesthetic, translating bold visions into memorable looks. Sculptural gowns, layered textures, and statement silhouettes are complemented by her poised walk and controlled expressions, letting the garment shine without being overshadowed.
Redefining maternity wear
The actress is pregnant with her second child, but continues to exude regality with her elegant fashion choices. Recently, she shared photos of her maternity shoot, sporting a black turtle neck top, a structured blazer and a maxi skirt. The maxi skirt was the most defining piece of wear, accessories were minimal, a waist chain and a Hermes bag, serving pregnancy looks with a refined sense of glamour. A second among her looks was an ivory white embroidered in gold, and it gave off a feeling of contained grandeur. Sonam Kapoor has once again shown us that her taste in fashion is par excellence and example-worthy.
