Before we swoon over corset-cut jackets, crown-worthy sunglasses, and the opulent Jaipur backdrops that shimmer behind every scene in The Royals, let’s take a quick detour. A rewind, if you will; back to the era of real royalty, in a land where fashion wasn’t just about trends but an embodiment of legacy and power. India’s royalty wasn’t just about grand palaces and dynastic rule, it was about the mastery of an aesthetic that blended regality, elegance, and prestige. From the Maharanis of Cooch Behar swanning through Paris in chiffon saris to the Nizams of Hyderabad dripping in diamonds, the fashion choices of India’s royal families were often as symbolic as they were opulent. So when Netflix announced The Royals, a reimagining of Indian aristocracy in a modern setting, the fashion stakes were nothing short of princely. And with celebrity stylist Aastha Sharma at the helm, this reimagined royalty was set to become an iconic blend of tradition, modernity, and unflinching swagger.
Aastha explains that crafting the show’s aesthetic involved “creating a visual narrative that reflects the cohesive identity of the Royal family.” It wasn’t just about dressing the cast, it was about curating entire worlds through silhouettes, textiles, and accessories. “For the older generation like Zeenat Aman, Sakshi Tanwar, Milind Soman, the couture in the show often leans towards traditional outfits but with a modern touch,” she shares. “From lehengas to saris to kaftans, structured jackets and suits, it’s a beautiful mix with ancestral jewels and accessories. We’ve collaborated with extensive Indian couturiers, old and new, to bring in a beautiful fashion language to the show.”
The show isn’t just a juicy family drama set against the opulent backdrop of a palace filled with secrets, lies, and strategic alliances; it’s a fashion revolution. From intricate brocade saris to sleek contemporary silhouettes, the wardrobe choices are more than just outfits; they are integral to the development of the characters and the show’s narrative. Aastha notes that contrasts in style were key to bringing out the show’s intergenerational complexity.
“Deliberate cross-generational style reflects in the show and contrasts were essential in shaping the wardrobe language of The Royals. These choices help reinforce themes of legacy and identity within the royal family’s narrative,” she explains. “It comes in their outfit choices, silhouettes, personal style and occasion wear. Designers like Falguni Shane Peacock, Anamika Khanna, Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla and many more helped us bring life and glamour to the show.” Across an impressive cast that includes Zeenat Aman, Bhumi Pednekar, Ishaan Khatter, Sakshi Tanwar, Milind Soman, Dino Morea, Nora Fatehi, Kavya Trehan, and Vihaan Samrat, Aastha’s styling mixes old-world grandeur with a dash of modern-day chic. The result is nothing short of spectacular, elevating the show into a dazzling sartorial saga. Let’s break down the fashion drama that unfolds on screen, one royal look at a time.
Zeenat Aman as Maaji Saa: The matriarch queen
Zeenat Aman’s portrayal of Maaji Saa, the formidable matriarch, is the epitome of regal elegance, both timeless and unforgettable. From the moment she steps onto the screen, draped in opulent handwoven silks and adorned with heirloom jewels, she commands attention. Aastha envisioned her as Grace Kelly meets Gayatri Devi—with a touch of Saint Laurent. The result? Sculptural coats, custom millinery, Dior-esque silhouettes, layered Indian jewels, and sleek sunglasses. Styled in Anamika Khanna, Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla, and Amrapali Jewels’ polki, she’s equal parts regal, rebellious, and radiant.
Bhumi Pednekar: From boardroom queen to royal rebel
No dainty duchess energy here; Bhumi’s character is all business before bloodline. Her evolution from corporate boardrooms to royal banquets is a glow-up arc in fashion form. Enter power suits by Nikhil Thampi, structured saris by Falguni Shane Peacock, and ceremonial stunners by Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla. Sharp collars meet crystal-dusted capes, and not a sequin feels out of place. Aastha Sharma’s styling of Bhumi speaks to the character’s calculated manipulation of both people and situations; her clothing is never overly ornate or attention-seeking, but it is always powerful.
Ishaan Khatter: The king we’re all drooling over
Ishaan Khatter’s portrayal of the rebellious young prince is a masterclass in mixing tradition with nonconformity. His wardrobe is a perfect reflection of his youthful rebellion cloaked in royalty. Ishaan plays it cool. His wardrobe balances heritage with high street. For casual scenes, think linen trousers, breezy shirts, and deconstructed silhouettes. For royal appearances? Aastha taps into the quiet luxury of Rohit Bal, Shantnu & Nikhil, and Raghavendra Rathore, classic menswear masters who know how to cut opulence without shouting. The result? Regal, but make it Gen Z. It’s a prince who acknowledges his royal lineage but is unwilling to fully conform to its expectations.
Sakshi Tanwar as Padmaja: The keeper of secrets
A far cry from her on-screen motherly avatars, Sakshi plays a layered matriarch with secrets sewn into her sari pleats. Sharma transforms her into a vision of quiet command with handwoven textiles, moody jewel tones, and statement chokers. Sakshi’s style is understated but razor sharp, much like her role. In classic handlooms, glittery tones, and heritage jewellery, she whispers tradition through her wardrobe. Her character doesn’t need embellishments, she is the legacy.
Milind Soman and Dino Morea as the suave maharajahs
How do you style Greek gods in a Rajasthani kingdom? With restraint and respect. Milind and Dino get the royal-gentleman treatment—bandhgalas, achkans, polo-inspired layering, and a muted palette of charcoal, indigo, and champagne. A touch of Jaipur heritage, a touch of Savile Row. It’s Maharaja meets Milan. When two of India’s most iconic male models enter the screen as warring royals, expect fashion fireworks. Call it East-meets-West-meets-wow.
Nora Fatehi as the enigmatic outsider
Nora Fatehi’s portrayal of the stunning princess Ayesha Dhondy is an absolute masterclass in royal seduction and style. A character wrapped in power and unapologetic boldness, Nora’s wardrobe speaks to her position as the enigmatic force within the royal family. Custom creations from Falguni Shane Peacock push the envelope and gold Y2K bikinis, scandalous thigh-high slits, and intricate metallic embroideries add the cherry on the top. Every ensemble she dons, from her richly layered blouses to dramatic drapes, speaks volumes about her ability to blend sensuality with the stateliness of her royal heritage.
Vihaan Samrat and Kavya Trehan: The cool kids on the block
The youngest in the cast brings the most fashion-forward energy. Kavya is all about co-ords, vintage saris worn as skirts, and sneakers with mirrorwork jackets. She’s royalcore meets Coachella. Vihaan’s look represents the younger generation of royals; polished, poised, but with an air of rebellion brewing beneath the surface. The use of rich colours signals his noble status while hinting at his own journey of self-discovery. “For the younger bunch—Ishaan, Kavya, Vihaan—it leans more towards new-age couture with a mix of their heritage heirloom pieces,” Aastha adds.
The Royals doesn’t just serve drama; it drapes it in decadence. With Aastha Sharma at the helm and a lineup of India’s finest design minds in play, this isn’t your average palace parade. This is power play through pleats, whispered conspiracies stitched into silks, and revenge plotted behind pearl-studded veils. Every ensemble is a narrative, every accessory an agenda. It’s not about dressing up—it’s about dressing with intent.
Because in The Royals, fashion isn’t just a backdrop; it’s the battleground. And if clothes could kill? Consider this show armed and dangerous. Now that’s what we call haute couture with a crown.
