Aishwarya Rai stuns in ivory banarasi and rubies at Cannes 2025

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan made a striking return to the Cannes Film Festival this year, marking her 22nd appearance with a bold departure from the conventional red carpet fare. She wore a custom "Banarasi sari and rubies by Manish Malhotra," a look that fused traditional Indian craft with contemporary couture.

Known for consistently redefining fashion norms at Cannes—from her viral lilac lips to avant-garde gowns—Aishwarya once again delivered a memorable moment. This time, she chose a classic white handwoven kadwa Banarasi sari, reimagined with a couture gown silhouette. The outfit featured a handwoven tissue drape, a sheer train embroidered with gold sequins, and zari detailing in real chandi, making it a luminous blend of heritage and haute couture.

The sari's brocade motifs paid homage to India's weaving legacy, while the sweeping train gave it a dramatic flair that suited the Cannes red carpet. Aishwarya completed the ensemble with an opulent neckpiece—"500 carats of Mozambique rubies and uncut diamonds set in 18k gold"—also from Manish Malhotra's jewellery line.

Her beauty look stayed true to her signature style: straight, sleek hair parted by a streak of sindoor, and bold red lips that echoed both the rubies around her neck and her long standing love for statement makeup.

This isn't the first time the "Devdas" (2002) actor has leaned into ivory tones at Cannes. In 2009, she turned heads in an ivory Roberto Cavalli gown with a ruffled train. In 2014, she revisited white again in another Cavalli piece, also pairing it with red lips and flowing hair.

Each year, Aishwarya brings more than just a look—she brings a story stitched in style. In 2025, that story is one of timeless craft, cinematic legacy, and red carpet rebellion.

Read more

Elle Fanning tears up as Trier's ‘Sentimental Value’ earns 15-minute ovation at Cannes