Sobhita Dhulipala reflects on Indian couture, personal style after closing Rahul Mishra’s India Couture Week show

Actor Sobhita Dhulipala brought the curtains down on Rahul Mishra’s India Couture Week showcase, presenting an ethereal finale that blended high fashion with theatrical storytelling. Mishra showcased his celebrated Devi collection—previously unveiled at Paris Couture Week—alongside a new festive couture line, with intricate embroidery crafted using his signature ektaarka technique.

Dhulipala first appeared in an ivory-and-champagne ensemble featuring embroidered trousers and a crystal-encrusted bodice that created the illusion of cascading jewellery. She later transformed the look by layering it with a voluminous floral lehenga skirt, accessorised with a diamond choker and sleek centre-parted hair, highlighting the collection’s craftsmanship.

Speaking about the collaboration, Dhulipala said wearing Mishra’s couture feels “less like putting on an outfit and more like stepping into a story.” Her favourite element was the magnolia-inspired hair accessory created in collaboration with Nexxus New York, which she described as “delicate yet sculptural.”

She praised Mishra’s collaborative approach, saying his designs leave room for the wearer’s personality to shine. “He has such a distinctive visual language, but also allows the person wearing the clothes to bring something of themselves to the look,” she said.

On preparing for the runway, Dhulipala explained that she focuses on understanding the emotional world of the collection rather than overthinking her walk. “Once I understand the mood, the silhouette, and what the designer wants the audience to feel, the rest becomes instinctive,” she said.

Discussing the importance of hair in completing a couture look, she said the right hairstyle shapes posture, movement and the way garments flow. She emphasised the value of healthy, natural-looking hair, adding that salon-quality care creates the ideal base for statement styling.

Reflecting on Indian couture’s growing global presence, Dhulipala said international audiences are increasingly recognising it for its creativity and cultural richness, not just its craftsmanship. According to her, Indian fashion today embraces a wide spectrum—from traditional and romantic to experimental and contemporary.

Known for her understated personal style, the actor said she prefers fashion and beauty choices that feel instinctive rather than overly planned. She believes the most memorable looks are those where clothing, hair and makeup come together seamlessly, allowing the wearer to simply inhabit the emotion they create.

Sharing a beauty lesson passed down through her family, Dhulipala said consistency is the secret. “Beauty is closely connected to care,” she said, stressing the importance of regular skincare, haircare, proper rest and a natural approach instead of elaborate routines.

As for fitness before a runway appearance, she avoids drastic preparations. Instead, she focuses on feeling comfortable and centred, believing confidence comes from being fully present rather than making last-minute changes.