How Aishwarya Rai Bachchan's Cannes style reign went from glamour to gaffe

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan’s fashion evolution at the Cannes Film Festival has been a rollercoaster ride, but lately, it’s like the tracks are heading downhill. Marking her debut in 2002, her style book is polarising with iconic looks within her comfort zone versus fashion mutinies that readily fizzled out. More so in recent years, the former Miss World’s saving grace has often been a dedicated fandom, courtesy of her interminable charm. 

However, the diva’s fetching smile can only distract from her steady fashion decline for so long. From her iconic debut in a traditional saree to her more recent experimental and often misguided choices, here is a rundown of how the Devdas starlet fell from glory at the Cannes.

2002

Aishwarya’s debut at the Cannes Film Festival in 2002 remains one of the most talked-about moments in fashion history. Her striking yellow saree was a bold, culturally significant choice that highlighted her Indian heritage on a global stage. This bright, luxurious yellow saree was host to intricate gold embroidery, adding a touch of glamour and sophistication. 

Complementing her saree with traditional Indian jewelry, including large gold earrings, a choker necklace and bangles, Aishwarya’s look was completed with simple, elegant makeup and softly styled hair. This debut was a masterclass in blending traditional attire with global fashion sensibilities.

2008

Fast forward to 2008 and the Guru actor’s fashion choices began to shift. She arrived on the red carpet in a fuchsia gown from Roberto Cavalli, featuring a plunging V-neckline, halter straps, and textured handkerchief detailing along the skirt. With her hair parted in soft waves, she looked elegant, but the gown marked a departure from the cultural homage of her debut.

2011

At the premiere of Sleeping Beauty, Aishwarya embraced a more contemporary style. She wore a navy and white colour-blocked gown from Armani Privé. This gown, with its corset-like bodice and asymmetric hemline, paired with a sleek high ponytail and dark smokey eyes, marked a sophisticated yet somewhat restrained elegance.

2015

The actor briefly recaptured some of her former glory with a textured dress from Georges Chakra. Adorned with small black floral appliqués and a matching black waist belt, the white gown was both modern and chic. Paired with elegant earrings and soft, loose hair, this look is an easy highlight amidst a series of less impressive choices to follow.