Strings, pearls and crystals: How the dupatta is being reinvented

Once considered just a modest accessory to complement ethnic outfits, the dupatta has taken center stage in the fashion world. Long associated with tradition, it’s now enjoying a renaissance, thanks to celebrity style icons and designers who are reimagining its form, function, and flair.

Whether it’s on the runway, at weddings or global red carpets, the dupatta is no longer just draped; it’s designed. And each new look tells a story of culture, couture and modern confidence.

India Couture Week: Strings and statements

At the recent India Couture Week, designer Manish Malhotra made headlines when former Victoria’s Secret Angel Alessandra Ambrosio walked the runway in a dazzling lehenga. But what truly caught everyone's attention? Her barely-there dupatta strings a minimal, ethereal nod to the traditional silhouette that screamed modern glamour.

This wasn’t your average bridal drape. It was delicate, barely visible and completely intentional, a masterclass in redefining heritage wear for a global audience.

Rhea Kapoor’s pearl veil: No fabric, No problem

When Rhea Kapoor tied the knot, she ditched convention with flair. Instead of a fabric dupatta, she opted for a veil made entirely of pearls, crafted with thousands of tiny beads and zero cloth. It was avant-garde bridal fashion at its finest, blending old-world elegance with contemporary edge.

Her look sparked a wave of brides seeking experimental drapes that don’t necessarily involve fabric, proving that the dupatta can be reinterpreted without losing cultural significance.

Alia Bhatt at Cannes: Global meets glam

Alia Bhatt made India proud at Cannes when she graced the red carpet in a Gucci saree. But it was her Swarovski crystal-embellished dupatta that brought the wow factor. Paired with the soft sheen of her ivory saree, the dupatta glittered with red-carpet confidence.

By combining an Indian silhouette with international haute couture, Alia showed that the dupatta can easily travel across borders and still stay rooted in tradition.

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Radhika Merchant’s haldi look: Floral and fun

At her haldi ceremony, Radhika Merchant wore a bright yellow floral ensemble, but it was her playful, breezy dupatta that made it unforgettable. Drenched in sun-kissed colors and light textures, it proved that daytime function fashion can still be expressive and experimental.

This look celebrates the joy of tradition while embracing a youthful, trend-forward aesthetic reminding us that the dupatta doesn’t need to be heavy to make a statement.

Kareena Kapoor Khan in Itrh: Mirror, mirror on the drape

Kareena Kapoor Khan, Bollywood's eternal style icon, recently stunned in an Anarkali suit paired with a mirror-work dupatta from designer label Itrh. The reflective detailing added drama and dazzle, striking the perfect balance between elegance and boldness.

Her look brought back the nostalgia of mirror work with a couture upgrade, further affirming that the dupatta is becoming a key canvas for design experimentation.

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More than just a drape

From minimalist strings to extravagant pearls, the dupatta has officially entered its statement era. It's being styled, sculpted, and showcased like never before. Whether you're a bride, a fashion enthusiast, or simply someone dressing for a festive occasion, the dupatta now offers endless creative possibilities. So, is your dupatta still just an accessory or your boldest fashion move yet?