Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s films have always made sure that they’re ahead go their time, in terms of script, set design and even fashion. Take his Guzaarish for example. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan’s Sophia’s gowns should have had a character arc of their own. In his previous few films, we’ve seen Deepika Padukone walk the walk in stunning outfits. But neither Sophia, nor Leela (Padukone in Goliyon Ki Raas Leela: Ram Leela) can match the simplicity of Nandini. Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam was Bhansali’s second film, and we’re guessing he was just beginning to experiment with costumes. His first, Khamoshi: The Musical, wasn’t heavy on costumes, but Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam was his first step into a world of elaborate costumes, however subtle.
Designer duo, Neeta Lulla and Shabina Khan’s go to for Nandini were lehengas and sarees and as Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s epic saga Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam turns 21 today and we are on road to take a nostalgic trip with an ulterior motive. The movie not only won our hearts with its strong cast and grand sets but also the way Aishwarya Rai (now Bachchan) stunned the screen with her vibrant looks.
Now the pandemic may have given a set back to your coming events but it’s giving you an opportunity to think like designers Neeta Lulla and Shabina Khan and recreate some of Nandini’s iconic looks for you or your best friend’s wedding. But worry not, we’re here to help. We put together outfits and jewellery that will give you the perfect Nandini look…
Look 1
Aishwarya Rai’s character, Nandini, looks stunning in this shot as she walks down the stairs in a peach lehenga, styled with beautiful Kundan and Polki jewellery and hair simply pulled back and knotted. Now all you got to do is find a plum lip colour and highlight your eyes with a thick winged bold eyeliner and you are all set to walk down any fleet of stairs looking as gorgeous as her!
Look 2
Let’s talk about the sangeet because that’s where the real competition is at! Are you practicing moves to rock the dance floor with your Nimboda performance, because if you aren’t, you better begin! Well you better ace up to also rock the Nandini look for this one with a royal blue and turquoise embroidered lehenga by Ri Ritu Kumar and don’t forget to style it with a statement set from Sabyasachi’s jewellery collection. We recommend going extra glam for this one with your hair flowing in the air!
Look 3
We know how people can be with white and the bride and as much as we would love to overcome such superstitions white is definitely a fun colour you can wear at one of the functions, because let’s admit it, which big fat Indian wedding does not have multiple functions! Pick a saree from Picchika’s organza collection, brush your brows, create a messy bun and add a subtle piece of jewellery just as Nandini did on her hunt for love. You can hit the beach and trams on your honeymoon too, if you decide to give this a skip on your wedding. Save it for the honeymoon – always works (wink wink)!
Look 4
Shine bright at your next day event with a hint of colour and culture with Punit Balana’s mirror work mustard lehenga from his Rabari collection. Add a bit of boho to your look with these quirky rainbow jhumkas, get some beachy waves and reflect a sense of joyful, bubbly Nandini.
Look 5
We’ve all dreamt of a Chaand Chupa moment where we want to look as mesmerising and stunning as Nandini and as perfect as a dreamy bridesmaid. A ruffle Dupatta lehenga set by Mahima Mahajan can make your dreams come true. Style it with a high ponytail and jewellery from Hazoorilal’s diamond collection and you’re good to go!
Follow us on Instagram here:
Bombay Balloon 