Janhvi Kapoor Takes India To Toronto In A Desi 'Sari' & Kolhapuri Chappals

At the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), Janhvi Kapoor is commanding attention—not only for her cinematic presence but also for her striking sartorial choices that blur the line between Indian tradition and global luxury. Styled by Rhea Kapoor, the actress stepped out in a golden ensemble from Prada’s Spring 2004 collection, a line remembered for its bold cultural nods to Indian textile heritage.

Janhvi’s strapless gold dress, rendered in sari-inspired silk, was a masterclass in reinterpreting heritage for the red carpet. The fabric’s embroidery evoked the intricacy of sari craftsmanship, reshaped into a structured, modern silhouette. Draped over her shoulders, a matching coat added dramatic elegance and cinematic flair.

Accessories were kept understated—sleek hair, muted makeup, and minimal jewels—allowing the craftsmanship to shine. But the true showstopper was her footwear: golden strappy sandals by Aprajita Toor, a luxe reimagination of the iconic Kolhapuri chappal.

Janhvi’s fashion narrative at TIFF didn’t stop there. She later appeared in a hand-embroidered chiffon sari in warm-toned silks, its floral motifs blooming delicately across the fabric. Paired with a backless blouse and artisanal footwear, the look gained further depth with a vintage men’s jamawar jacket from the 1980s, bringing heritage layering to the fore.

When Miuccia Prada unveiled the Spring 2004 line, it was celebrated as a groundbreaking East-meets-West collection. Drawing inspiration from Indian sari silks, the collection married ornate embroideries with European tailoring, transforming draped traditions into structured, global luxury. Rather than replicating, Prada captured the essence of the sari—the opulence, fluidity, and artisanal depth that define Indian weaving.

By choosing a piece from this collection for TIFF, Janhvi Kapoor not only resurrected a pivotal chapter in Prada’s history but also spotlighted the enduring relevance of Indian craftsmanship on the international stage.

Janhvi is attending the festival with co-stars Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa to present their film Homebound, but her wardrobe has already made its own cinematic statement—one of cultural dialogue, timeless craftsmanship, and global glamour.