Veteran Bollywood actress Rekha’s recent festive looks is an ode to vintage glam

Known for her love of gold saris and her devotion to traditional Indian handloom, Rekha's sartorial choices consistently pay homage to India’s textile legacy (Images: @manishmalhotra05/Instagram)

At 69, Bollywood's ultimate style diva Rekha continues to charm and excite audiences with her unapologetically classic and deeply Indian aesthetic, reminding us that true style is not bound by time or trends. Recently, she graced the IIFA Awards stage with a dazzling 20-minute performance, draped in a custom-made Gulabi Banarasi Kalli lehenga by designer Manish Malhotra.

This intricate creation featured detailed Zardosi embroidered borders that evoked the opulence of regal India, perfectly complementing the ageless elegance that Rekha has come to symbolize. Her look was completed with stunning traditional jewellery, blending heritage and artistry in a way that only she can.

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Known for her love of gold saris and her devotion to traditional Indian handloom, Rekha's sartorial choices consistently pay homage to India’s textile legacy. One of her recent appearances in a gold handloom tissue sari was nothing short of spectacular. The designer shared this iconic moment on social media, calling attention to her enduring presence in the world of fashion. In true Rekha fashion, the look was punctuated with her signature accessories: a fresh jasmine gajra adorning her neatly tied-up hair, bold kohl-rimmed eyes, and her classic red lips, which have become synonymous with her timeless beauty.

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Rekha’s enduring style is a masterclass in marrying tradition with a personal, signature flair. Her love for pearls and gold jewellery is evident in her iconic pairings of gold maang tikkas, Chandbalis, and stacks of bangles—each detail contributing to her old-world, graceful Indian look. The veteran actress has always stayed true to her roots, choosing pieces that reflect her deep connection to Indian culture. Whether it’s the richness of her fabrics or the intricacy of her jewellery, Rekha is a beacon of how vintage Indian aesthetics continue to enchant and inspire in modern fashion.

At Manish Malhotra’s annual Diwali party, Rekha once again proved her sartorial dominance by stepping out in a rich orange, gold, and yellow silk sari with brocade embroidery. Paired with a silk gold blouse, an embroidered potli bag, and gold Chandbalis, she radiated grace and grandeur. A matching maang tikka, layers of gold bracelets, and a marigold-adorned, center-parted hairdo completed the ensemble, showcasing her impeccable ability to elevate traditional wear into high-fashion moments.

Rekha's consistency in sticking to her vintage-inspired looks has not only solidified her place as a timeless style icon but has also made her a symbol of cultural pride. She reminds us that in an ever-evolving fashion landscape, some styles—rooted in heritage and craftsmanship—never lose their charm. Her unyielding commitment to her aesthetic, whether in her gleaming saris or her love for old-school makeup, continues to influence fashion lovers who look to her for sartorial inspiration.