For over two decades, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has been a radiant and unmissable presence at the Cannes Film Festival, serving not just as an ambassador for Indian cinema, but also as a global style icon. Every year, as the red carpet rolls out on the French Riviera, the world waits to see what the former Miss World will wear — and she never disappoints.
Aishwarya’s Cannes journey is more than a series of beautiful gowns. It’s a timeline of transformation, both personal and professional. From early appearances in traditional Indian wear to recent experimental couture looks, she has redefined elegance time and again. Here’s a look back at some of her most unforgettable appearances that continue to inspire fashion lovers worldwide.
Aishwarya’s Cannes debut in 2002 was a cultural moment for India. Representing Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Devdas, she chose a heavily embroidered yellow Neeta Lulla saree, paired with traditional jewelry and bold makeup. At a time when Indian fashion hadn’t yet found mainstream visibility at global events, Aishwarya stood tall in her roots. That look remains one of the most iconic examples of representing Indian fashion on an international platform.
One of her most talked-about looks came in 2014, when she stunned the world in a dazzling gold Roberto Cavalli gown. The form-fitting mermaid silhouette complemented her figure perfectly, and the bold red lips added old-Hollywood glamor. This appearance marked a turning point, as it cemented Aishwarya’s status not just as a Bollywood star but as a global fashion heavyweight.
If there’s one look that became instantly legendary, it was Aishwarya’s powder blue Michael Cinco gown in 2017. With its voluminous skirt, intricate embroidery, and fairytale aura, the dress looked like something straight out of a Disney movie. As she gracefully walked the red carpet, she appeared ethereal — like a real-life Cinderella. That moment quickly went viral, with media around the world hailing her as the “queen of Cannes.
Building on the momentum from the previous year, Aishwarya returned in 2018 with another show-stopper by Michael Cinco — this time, a stunning butterfly-inspired gown that took over 3,000 hours to create. The deep purples and blues swirled across the fabric like wings in motion, and the train seemed to carry its own wind. It was a fashion fantasy brought to life, and Aishwarya owned it completely.
In a bold departure from classic red carpet fashion, Aishwarya’s Gaurav Gupta look at Cannes 2022 was futuristic and sculptural. The silver gown featured structured shoulder details and a flowing cape, giving off a space-age goddess vibe. It marked a new phase in her Cannes fashion evolution — one that embraced edgier, avant-garde aesthetics while retaining her signature grace.
Aishwarya’s 2023 appearance took the fashion world by surprise with a black gown featuring a gigantic silver bow by Sophie Couture. The outfit may have divided opinions, but it proved once again that she isn’t afraid to take risks. The structured design and dramatic contrast offered something unexpected, and Aishwarya carried it with confidence only she could command.
While her fashion choices often steal headlines, Aishwarya’s presence at Cannes has always been about more than just style. She’s walked the red carpet as an actress, a brand ambassador, a mother, and a cultural icon. Over the years, she has used her platform to celebrate Indian identity, support emerging designers, and spark conversations about beauty, representation, and influence.
From traditional sarees to futuristic couture, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has consistently turned the Cannes red carpet into her runway — not just for fashion, but for making statements that transcend trends. Her legacy at the festival remains unmatched, not only for what she wears, but for how she wears it: with elegance, confidence, and timeless poise.
