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Step into a time machine of glamour as Bollywood’s golden era makes a dazzling comeback through some of the best Bollywood retro styles. From voluminous hairdos and winged eyeliner to polka dot saris and high waisted bell bottoms, today’s stars are perfectly channelling the timeless charm of yesteryear icons. The modern inspirations of retro style Bollywood pays tribute to legends like Zeenat Aman and Rekha, seamlessly blending vintage elegance with contemporary flair. Get ready to explore how Bollywood’s past continues to shape its most stylish present.
Why retro Bollywood fashion still rules
Retro looks in Bollywood fashion continue to reign supreme because it captures a timeless charm and flamboyant elegance that never fades. From vibrant colours, bold patterns to dramatic silhouettes and iconic accessories, some of the top Bollywood retro fashion looks evokes nostalgia while offering a unique style statement even today. Whether it is the effortless glamour of Rekha ji’s Kanjeevarams or Zeenat Aman’s chic boho looks, the vintage trends in Bollywood perfectly blend in trends with classic allure along with modern sensibilities. In a world of fast fashion, retro looks in Bollywood continue to stand out in a way that is bold, beautiful and unforgettable.
Recreate the best of vintage style with these top celebrity inspired retro Bollywood looks
1. Rekha
Step into the spotlight like the eternal diva Rekha with a head turning Kanjeevaram saree drenched in gold and grace. Compliment your shimmering look with bold kajal lined eyes, deep maroon lips, and a cascade of jasmine flowers tucked into a voluminous bun. Finish your Bollywood retro fashion look with heavy temple jewellery and a regal bindi to channel that poetic, 70s elegance in the perfect way!
2. Zeenat Aman
Inspired by Zeenat Aman’s iconic cabaret glam style, this kind of Bollywood retro style is all shimmer and sass. Think metallic jumpsuits, plunging necklines, tinted sunglasses, and dramatic curls bouncing on retro beats. Amp up your style with glittering makeup, sky-high stilettos, and a whole lot of attitude. The Zeenat Aman inspired retro style Bollywood isn't just fashion, but a whole revolution in itself.
Oh, and the actress, last seen in Netflix outing, The Royals is still very much a fashion icon, retro or not.
3. Hema Malini
Float like a dream in pastel chiffon sarees with delicate embroidery, soft curls, and beautiful pearl accessories. This retro look in Bollywood perfectly captures the iconic ‘Dream Girl’ vibe, which is demure yet so magnetic. Add a touch of the vintage rosy blush, glossy lips, and fluttering lashes for that sweet-seventies innocence. This retro fashion is the classic Bollywood romance, reborn.
4. Parveen Babi
Blending western silhouettes with the Indian swag, the Bollywood retro fashion inspired by Parveen Babi channels the fearless fashion within you. Think high-waisted bell-bottoms, tucked-in silk blouses, bold belts, and oversized shades. Complete the look with smoky eyes, glossy lips, and a bold blowout.
5. Sridevi
Channel Sridev’s larger-than-life 80s vibe with candy coloured sarees, teased hair, and dramatic eyeliner. Pair your look with glitzy accessories, bold eyeshadow palettes, and a sparkle that is impossible to ignore. Whether it is the Chandni chiffon or the Mr. India drama, Sridevi inspired retro look in Bollywood brings out the ultimate Bollywood glam to life.
The latest to channel Sri's classic retro saree styling? Daughter Janhvi Kapoor in the song 'Bheegi Saree' from her upcoming August release Param Sundari.
6. Madhubala
Drift into a bygone era with velvety anarkalis, delicately draped dupattas, and ornate jhumkas that echo the Mughal-e-Azam grandeur. Recreate Madhubala’s retro style Bollywood fashion with soft kohl, winged eyeliner, and romantic curls. It is the old school allure with a dash of poetic mystique that is made for all you timeless souls out there!
And not just us, Madhubala's styling and retro look are a massive inspiration for designers and stylists everywhere. Last year, Bollywood actress Wamiqa Gabbi was featured on the digital cover of a wedding magazine, with the style brief being all about Madhubala's grace. And decked in The Rose Girl outfits, Gabbi was simply a visual delight!
7. Neetu Singh
Cute, quirky, and irresistibly chic, this Bollywood retro style draws from Neetu Singh’s bubbly 70s fashion. Combine floral dupattas, collared kurtas, flared pants, and big hoop earrings for that effortless retro cool look. Pop on some tinted lip balm, minimal makeup, and a cheeky smile to radiate a playful nostalgia that is wrapped in style.
Retro Bollywood fashion: Then vs now
Retro Bollywood fashion was once defined by flamboyant prints, polka dots, bell bottoms, winged eyeliner, bouffant hairstyles, and a dramatic flair. This kind of style evolved as a symbol of rebellion and romance in the 60s, 70s and 80s. The modern day retro style statements pay homage to these roots with a contemporary twist. Back then, actors like Zeenat Aman and Parveen Babi turned cinema screens into fashion runways, flaunting oversized sunglasses, knotted blouses, and bold colours that defied convention. Today, retro fashion is being reimagined by designers and stylists who blend vintage silhouettes with modern cuts, fabrics and minimalist aesthetics.
While the spirit of old school Bollywood glamour remains intact, its comeback on red carpets, music videos, and social media is more polished, curated, and globally inspired. Bollywood retro style isn't just back with a refresh, but it is a space where the timeless meets trendy.