Fashion has always played a crucial role in shaping cinematic narratives in Bollywood. Over the years and all the style changes, one piece of clothing that has evolved and adapted, yet continues to hold a timeless place is sarees. Over the years, leading actresses have turned drapes into powerful style statements, giving sarees their own unique twist. From romantic scenes to high-energy dance numbers, these actresses have proved that a saree can be both elegant and versatile as you like it.
Updated On: 2026-01-29 02:34 PM IST
Compiled by : Amarylisa Gonsalves
Deepika Padukone’s blue saree in Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani's Badtameez Dill became an instant favourite among audiences. The soft drape and minimal styling complemented her character’s emotional journey.
Janhvi Kapoor's sarees in Param Sundari were simple yet striking. They perfectly blended modern aesthetics and trends with the evergreen grace of sarees.
Sushmita Sen’s saree look in Main Hoon Na is undoubtedly a benchmark for grace and maturity on screen. With her effortless confidence and grace, she elevated even the simplest drape with dignity and strength.
Kriti Sanon’s blue saree in Tere Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya is again a refined fashion choice that's modern yet elegant. Her look reflected maturity, poise, and modern femininity.
Alia Bhatt delivered multiple saree moments in Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahaani. One of them which stands out was this vibrant pink and green saree, which was bold yet carried with grace. Each of her looks reflected cultural richness, confidence, and emotional authenticity.
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan’s saree looks in Devdas depicted cinematic royalty. Be it rich Banarasi silks to heavily embroidered drapes, her graceful screen presence, expressive eyes, and classical styling turned each saree into a visual masterpiece.
Kareena Kapoor’s red saree in Ra.One became an instant style sensation. It was bold, vibrant, and striking. The modern experiment landed well. It ditched the pallu while still maintaining the grace of a drape.
Priyanka Chopra’s golden saree in the Desi Girl song from Dostana remains one of Bollywood’s most iconic fashion moments. Her body language, effortless charm, and the sizzling saree turned the look into a cultural phenomenon.
Katrina Kaif moving around gracefully in a soft black saree in the song Teri Ore from Singh Is Kinng became an iconic romantic visual. The flowing fabrics, minimal accessories, and natural styling struck a balance between sensuality and innocence.
Vidya Balan presented the saree as a bold symbol of femininity and power in The Dirty Picture. She was seen draped in body-hugging silks and deep-toned blouses, which celebrated curves with unapologetic confidence. Each of her sarees was a statement of self-assurance, individuality, and breaking conventional beauty stereotypes in mainstream cinema.
Rakul Preet Singh gave a modern edge to the traditional saree in De De Pyaar De 2. Her effortless styling proved that sarees can seamlessly adapt to today’s cinematic aesthetics.
Madhuri Dixit’s vibrant saree in Hum Aapke Hain Koun defined ‘90s Bollywood elegance. Paired with radiant expressions and graceful dance moves, she made the saree feel joyful, festive, and deeply rooted in Indian culture.
