Breastplates have evolved and how. What was once forged in fire for the battlefield has now been sculpted into one of fashion's boldest statements. The breastplate, which was a symbol of strength, defiance, and protection once for warriors, has now emerged as a fashion accessory.
The history of the breastplate can be traced back to ancient civilisations of Greece and Rome, where it served as a vital component of armors worn by warriors for protection during combats and breastplates were commonly used by soldiers in battle.
These early breastplates were typically made of bronze or iron and were designed to cover the chest and provide protection from enemy attacks.
The breastplate's role expanded beyond the battlefield in the 18th and 19th centuries. It became a fashion statement among the European aristocracy, who would commission luxurious and exquisitely crafted breastplates. These pieces were often made of precious metals such as gold and silver and adorned with gemstones, pearls, and intricate engravings. They were not intended for combat but served as ceremonial armor, worn during parades, tournaments, and courtly events.
The resurgence of the breastplate in couture is no accident. It taps into a growing desire for fashion that is expressive, powerful, and unapologetically fearless. The line between fashion and art has never been more blurred, and the breastplate sits perfectly at this intersection.
From Bollywood to Hollywood many stars have aced the breastplate look, giving us a major lesson in fashion.
Kiara Advani wore a Gaurav Gupta couture for her MET Gala debut. Gaurav Gupta's creation for Kiara Advani was a heartfelt tribute to her motherhood journey. The standout feature—a gold, heart-shaped breastplate at the strapless neckline was linked by a delicate chain to a smaller gold heart at the waist, symbolising the umbilical cord.
Titled Bravehearts, the form-fitting silhouette included a dramatic white floor-length cape with striking black borders. Kiara completed the look with radiant gold jewellery and immaculate makeup, embodying grace and strength in equal measure.
One of the earliest moments that reignited the trend was Zendaya’s jaw-dropping appearance in a metallic Tom Ford breastplate. Sleek, shiny, and sculpted to perfection, it set social media ablaze and opened the floodgates for designers and celebrities alike to experiment with this look.
Alia Bhatt made a striking debut at Paris Fashion Week, exuding effortless chic in a silver Gaurav Gupta breastplate. The sculpted piece featured delicate dents mimicking a toned midriff and defined navel, while the bust was edged with wing-like detailing for a touch of ethereal drama. She paired it with black sharara pants and bold chainmail earrings, completing the look with edgy sophistication.
Bhumi Pednekar, known for her experimental edge, leaned into the fantastical with her translucent breastplate look that had fans dubbing it ‘naagincore’—a nod to serpentine glam and mythical power.
Fashion influencer Uorfi Javed wore a golden breastplate back in 2023, as a blouse designed by Shweta Majhadik and Uorfi herself and paired it with a saree and had been shamed for wearing it.
