Fashion

How to Dress Like Rekha, the Timeless Beauty of Indian Cinema

By Anubha Das

Updated - May 9, 20243 min read

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Rekha, a versatile performer, and fashion queen, has conquered Indian Cinema with her knack for constant reinvention. And her fashion choices reflected that growth.

 

While most people identify "Rekha" with a slew of costly gold Kanjeevaram sarees, the Bollywood queen has more to offer in terms of fashion inspiration. We look back at some of her most memorable style moments and tell you how to incorporate those aspects into your wedding trousseau.

 

Golden girl

 

Image Courtesy: Vogue India

 

Kanjeevaram sarees, and sarees in any shade of metallic gold, have long been linked with the Bollywood diva and have been termed the "Rekha look." This classic style, often channelled by the likes of Vidya Balan and Kangana Ranaut, has proven to be a party pleaser for as long as we can recall. You have the option of sticking with the conventional silk version or modernising it by experimenting with other textiles. Trust us when we say — it always works!

 

We recommend: Readiprint Fashions Beige & Golden Embroidered Saree from Myntra @ ₹ 4,875

 

Image Courtesy: Myntra

 

 

Statement jewellery

 

Image Courtesy: DNA India

 

Rekha has always had a thing for statement jewellery, whether it's temple necklaces or more practical everyday pieces. However, one item became synonymous with her look following the 1981 film Umrao Jaan: the Paasa. It's a more sophisticated relative of the maang tika and would make an excellent complement to your wedding-day jewellery.

 

We recommend: AccessHer Gold-Plated White Kundan-Studded & Beaded Vilandi Jhumar Passa from Myntra @ ₹ 2,931

 

Image Courtesy: Myntra

 

 

Arm candy

 

Image Courtesy: Indian Wedding Saree

 

Rekha's potli bags are as much a part of her outfit as her prized silk sarees. In fact, you're unlikely to see her out in public without one. Potlis are the Indian counterpart of the effortlessly stylish bucket bag, and they're the ideal wedding accessory. Fashionable as well as practical!

 

We recommend: NR By Nidhi Rathi Women Cream Embroidered Potli Bag from Myntra @ ₹ 2,749

 

Image Courtesy: Myntra

 

 

Bold beauty

 

Image Courtesy: Indian Wedding Saree

 

 

While she might have tried out every single hair and makeup look out there, there is a certain something about red lipstick that immediately reminds us of Rekha. Take inspiration from the legend herself and opt for a bold red pout for your wedding day. You can further channel the Bollywood star by either wearing red roses in your hair or going for the timeless gajra.

 

We recommend: Satin Matte Lipstick from Disguise Cosmetics @ ₹ 500

 

Image Courtesy: Disguise Cosmetics

 

 


Whether you choose a gold silk saree on your wedding day or take the Umrao Jaan route and wear a paasa, it's vital to remember that inspiration always trumps imitation. So, instead of going overboard, take subtle style influences and make them your own by including unique aspects.