Published By: Nirtika Pandita

Indian Maharani's who the style icons of their time

Every bit of the fashion by them is unmatchable

In India, fashion has often been synonymous with either Bollywood or a heavy influence from western fashion. But long before Bollywood spread its magic of fashion, the queens and princesses from the royal states of India were making heads turn back then with their unmissable drapes, jewels, and accessories. Right from the ornaments to the unique chiffon or silk fabrics to the custom-made handbags, the royal households had an individual sense of fashion that made them stand apart from the crowd. Here are we taking a look at a few such royal ladies and taking a note of their fashion for some inspiration.

Maharani Gayatri Devi

Her’s is the first name that pops in an Indian’s brain as soon as we talk about Royal fashion icons. Maharani Gayatri Devi was declared one of the most beautiful women in the world by Vogue. She is the epitome of Indian beauty dripping in grace and styling. Maharani Gayatri Devi will forever be known for her subtle yet prominent pastel chiffon sarees, bob hair, and the simple shining string of pearls. Every bit of the third Maharani consort of Jaipur reflected utmost grace.

Maharani Indira Devi of Cooch Behar and Rajkumari of Baroda

Indira Devi was a renowned socialite, which made her inevitable to the world of fashion. Being among the royal social circles in India and Europe, Maharani Indira Devi had a keen eye for style. All her pictures are proof of her stylish aura and an epitome of royal elegance. It was to her expert fashion sense that she brought the trend of wearing silk chiffon sarees. A known non-conformist, Indira Devi wore diamond shoes and gambled in the London casinos. If one understands her fashion better, a look at her colourful collection of saris and neckpieces will be enough.

Maharani Sita Devi of Baroda

The Maharani was famous for her French chiffon sarees and exquisite pieces of jewellery that she never missed as a royal to show off. Maharani Sita Devi of Baroda was known as ‘Indian Wallis Simpson’ who lived a luxurious life. It is said that she used to travel with hundreds of matching sarees, shoes, handbags, and furs. In fact, even her cigarette holder had rubies studded in it.

Princess NilouferFarhat Begum Sahiba

Nicknamed as the Kohinoor of Hyderabad, Princess NilouferFarhat Begum Sahiba was the first wife of MoazzamJah, the last Nizam of Hyderabad. An Ottoman princess, Niloufer always believed in following her own style even in the conservative society that she was married into. Thanks to her peculiar eye for fashion, Princess Niloufer redefined the designs of the traditional Indian sari by blending eastern and western cultures.