Bollywood Stars Lose Fashion Influence As Karan Johar Notes Shift Toward Individuality And Exclusivity

During his appearance on The BarberShop with Shantanu, filmmaker and producer Karan Johar reflected on how consumer fashion behaviour has changed. Once, Bollywood stars set the tone for wedding wardrobes, hairstyles, and everyday fashion. Now, Johar says, people avoid copying celebrities because they don’t want to look like “wannabe versions” of them.

Changing Fashion Landscape

• Johar noted that Kareena Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Deepika Padukone were once aspirational figures whose outfits sparked nationwide trends.
• Today, customers say: “Why should I wear this? Kareena has already worn it” or “Alia has already worn it.” 
• The emphasis has shifted to personalised styling, exclusivity, and individuality.

Rise Of Individuality

• Luxury buyers now demand unique designs rather than celebrity-inspired outfits.
• Designers like Manish Malhotra are seeing clients request clothes that haven’t been worn by stars.
• Consumers want tailored experiences that make them feel special and distinct. 

Cultural Context

• Bollywood once heavily influenced fashion, from Sridevi’s sarees to Anushka Sharma’s pastel bridal lehenga after her 2017 wedding.
• That influence has waned as audiences increasingly value self-expression over imitation.
• Johar, who also runs the jewellery brand Tyaani, says this shift reflects a broader cultural move toward individual identity in fashion. 

Fashion Insights

•⁠  ⁠Bollywood stars no longer dictate mainstream fashion trends

•⁠  ⁠Kareena Kapoor and Alia Bhatt are not seen as “gold standard” style icons

•⁠  ⁠Consumers avoid copying celebrity looks to maintain individuality

•⁠  ⁠Luxury buyers demand exclusivity and personalised experiences

•⁠  ⁠Designers report clients rejecting outfits already worn by stars

•⁠  ⁠Cultural shift from celebrity imitation to self-expression in fashion

Sources: The Economic Times, Free Press Journal, The Indian Express, Times of India, News18, Odisha TV, Hindustan Times