When it comes to ethnic fashion, few garments carry the charm and cultural flair of the Punjabi suit. This traditional attire, featuring a kurta, salwar (or Patiala), and a dupatta, has evolved over time while maintaining its roots in Indian heritage. From wedding functions to casual outings, Punjabi suits strike a beautiful balance between comfort and elegance. Bollywood celebrities have taken this staple to new style heights, making it a red-carpet-worthy choice and a fashion inspiration for millions.
In this post, we highlight five leading Bollywood divas who truly slay in Punjabi suits, each bringing her unique fashion sensibilities to this timeless outfit. Whether it’s minimalism, high-glam, or traditional regality, these stars show us just how versatile the Punjabi suit can be.
1. Alia Bhatt – The Ethereal Punjabi Princess
Alia Bhatt is known for her youthful charm and elegant simplicity, and her Punjabi suit looks are no exception. Whether she’s promoting a film or attending a family wedding, Alia often turns heads in soft pastel suits paired with subtle embroidery and flowing dupattas.
- Signature Style: Pastels, light cottons, chikankari work, and phulkari-inspired dupattas.
- Memorable Look: Her blush pink suit with a sheer dupatta during a Diwali gathering went viral for all the right reasons.
- Fashion Tip: If you love understated elegance, emulate Alia’s style by opting for muted shades with delicate detailing.
2. Kareena Kapoor Khan – The Patiala Queen
Kareena Kapoor revolutionized the Punjabi suit trend with her portrayal of Geet in Jab We Met. Her vibrant Patiala suits paired with short kurtis and colorful dupattas brought traditional North Indian fashion back into the limelight.
- Signature Style: Bright colors, bold prints, and heavy Patiala salwars.
- Memorable Look: The mustard kurta and purple Patiala combo from the movie is now iconic in pop culture.
- Fashion Tip: Mix and match complementary bright tones to capture Kareena’s playful, bold ethnic aesthetic.
3. Deepika Padukone – The Elegant Fusionista
Deepika brings poise and elegance to everything she wears, including Punjabi suits. Often choosing structured silhouettes and designer finishes, she elevates ethnic wear to a whole new level. Her looks frequently incorporate silk fabrics, long kurtas, and beautifully draped dupattas.
- Signature Style: Neutral tones, statement earrings, and high-end fabrics like banarasi or raw silk.
- Memorable Look: Her ivory embroidered suit during a Ganesh Chaturthi celebration stunned fans and critics alike.
- Fashion Tip: Choose luxurious fabrics and a tailored fit to mirror Deepika’s regal ethnic vibe.
4. Sonam Kapoor Ahuja – The Fashion Trailblazer
Sonam Kapoor is synonymous with risk-taking and high fashion, even in ethnic wear. She doesn’t shy away from unconventional cuts, bold prints, or heritage craftsmanship. Her Punjabi suits often feature unusual silhouettes, like asymmetric hems and cape-style dupattas.
- Signature Style: Designer ensembles, layered accessories, and fusion elements.
- Memorable Look: Her hand-embroidered Punjabi suit by Anamika Khanna at a wedding function became a talking point in fashion circles.
- Fashion Tip: Don’t be afraid to experiment with fabric combinations, cuts, and accessories to recreate Sonam’s couture vibe.
5. Sara Ali Khan – The Modern Desi Girl
Sara Ali Khan has a flair for traditional outfits with a modern twist. Her wardrobe is filled with colorful Punjabi suits that reflect a cheerful and accessible aesthetic. She’s often seen in mirror work, vibrant prints, and playful dupatta styles.
- Signature Style: Mirror work, block prints, and lively color palettes.
- Memorable Look: A yellow printed suit with a white dupatta, paired with juttis and no-makeup look, became a viral airport style moment.
- Fashion Tip: Embrace bright, youthful patterns and cotton-based fabrics for a fresh, breezy Punjabi suit look.
Why Punjabi Suits Remain a Bollywood Staple
From Kareena’s iconic roles to Alia’s bridal appearances, Punjabi suits continue to be a Bollywood favorite due to their unmatched versatility, cultural significance, and comfort. Whether it’s a big-fat wedding or a casual brunch, they suit every occasion and body type.
Additionally, they allow for experimentation — from traditional phulkari to contemporary mirror work — which helps fashion-forward celebs express their unique personalities.
Bollywood continues to inspire ethnic fashion trends across India and the diaspora. These five actresses have set benchmarks in how Punjabi suits can be styled for different moods, occasions, and personality types. Whether you’re drawn to Alia’s subtle elegance, Kareena’s lively vibe, Deepika’s sophistication, Sonam’s avant-garde styling, or Sara’s youthful charisma, there’s a Punjabi suit look out there waiting for you to make it your own.
Looking to upgrade your ethnic wardrobe? Get inspired by these Bollywood beauties and explore our Ultimate Guide to Styling Ethnic Wear or check out our curated list of Top Online Stores to Buy Punjabi Suits.
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