Get ready with me

Top stylists predict what celebs will be wearing on the red carpet and off it. You know what this means. Mere mortals will soon be thirsting for those trends too

- Karishma Kuenzang

Rishi Raj

Raaj has styled Spanish tennis player Arantxa Sanchez Vicario, cricketer Shikhar Dhawan and actors Rakul Preet Singh, Sobhita Dhulipala and Sunny Leone. His tip: "When playing with proportion, understand the wearer's body type."

On the red carpet
Bling never goes out of fashion. Metallics and sequins are always a good choice when there are cameras involved. Like Zendaya's Armani Privé black and pink sequinned gown at the 2024 Oscars. "We'll see it in subdued colours such as dusty pink or a rose gold, which work for Indian skin tones."

Bridal-inspired fashion. "White gowns have stepped out of the chapel and on to the red carpet. "Turn it up a notch," suggests Raj, like Michelle Yeoh did at the Met Gala in 2024. Rahul Mishra and Siddharth Tytler have paired the lehenga with bomber jackets. The maatha patti sets off a brocade tux. A fitted achkan looks good with a sheer churidaar or cigarette pants.

Torso armour. Gaurav Gupta showed metal plated bustiers at Couture Week. Raj recommends styling it "with a shirt or jacket, with just a hint of the metal plate inside". Accessorise with headgear or gloves. "It will be uncomfortable, but it's what makes statement."

Avoid

Platform shoes. It makes feet look like hooves under elegant gowns, says Raj.

Loud logos. "It now reeks of tackiness."

Distressed denim. Not even patches. "Think soft, supple but classic with denim. Leave shredded jeans for memes."

IRL trends

Denim on denim. A lot of '90s styles are returning, says Raj. See Rihanna for inspiration.