In the latest episode of “What Happened That Year, or Am I Getting Old?”, we’re celebrating Dil To Pagal Hai’s 27th anniversary. Yes, you read that right—27 years. Sorry, millennials. This 1997 release isn’t just a rom-com for fans of Yash Chopra’s films; it’s much more than that. Dil To Pagal Hai featured the beloved trio of Shah Rukh Khan, Madhuri Dixit, and Karisma Kapoor, who not only captured our hearts with their performance and romance but also made a significant impact on the fashion landscape in the late ’90s.
Even though the film was released a few years before I was born, I still remember cutting snippets of the characters and pasting them into my scrapbook in the early 2000s.
Reflecting on the film’s influence, our beauty Editor, Kannagi Desai who FYI has a little cameo in the film shared: “Dil To Pagal Hai was pure magic—a film that perfectly captured the enchanting idea of ‘someone somewhere.’ It wasn’t just Shah Rukh Khan’s charm or Madhuri Dixit’s persona, though those were undeniably dreamy. It was the 27 Years ‘Dil To Pagal Hai’ promise that, amidst all the chaos of life, there exists a serendipitous connection just waiting to happen. The notion of ‘someone somewhere’ transformed from a fairytale into a whisper of hope, resonating with every heartbreak. For a love-struck soul like mine, it was exactly the kind of inspiration I needed.”
She added, “Those flowy pastel lehengas and Madhuri’s effortlessly chic suits were a revelation. Unlike the heavy, wedding-ready outfits we were used to, they were breezy, elegant, and incredibly wearable. Even today, that aesthetic lingers with me, guiding my choices toward Indian fashion that’s light, graceful, and anything but conventional.”
As we reflect on the movie’s legacy, let’s explore the standout styles that defined the characters and the trends that still resonate today.
Madhuri Dixit’s Chiffon Charm
There’s no denying Madhuri Dixit’s style and allure. And in this film, her character, Pooja, again made audiences swoon with her stunning chiffon kurtas (sans) the dupatta. While most of us recall the transparency of her outfits as being impractical, they undeniably contributed to her style.
Karisma Kapoor Meets Athleisure
A solid 10 on 10 for this one. Karisma’s character, Nisha, brought a fresh twist to Bollywood’s fashion space. Her hip-hop-influenced attire with oversized shirts and trendy accessories like leg warmers was a more modern and relatable approach to the film fashion’s. Her outfits were not just about aesthetics; they gave us a sneak peek into her personality and ambitions in dance and love.
Shah Rukh Khan’s Effortless Style
You know the film is iconic when SRK’s character is named Rahul. In this film, Shah Rukh Khan showcased the suave hero with his effortlessly chic oversized shirts and tailored trousers. His laid-back yet polished looks complemented the film’s overall aesthetic.
The Impact of Manish Malhotra
At the helm of these iconic looks was celebrated designer Manish Malhotra. His vision for the film was a fresh take, blending traditional Indian outfits with contemporary style. The costumes not only enhanced the characters’ personalities but also inspired a generation of fashion enthusiasts.
While Dil To Pagal Hai’s fashion might evoke some cringe-worthy moments today, it’s okay to recognise the impact they held in their time. Many elements from the film are still on our Pinterest board, showing that good styling transcends time.
Also, read: 17 Years Of ‘Jab We Met’, Here Are 17 Reasons Why This Film Is Still So Iconic
