Sara Ali Khan has turned heads in a new set of images shared by designer Manish Malhotra, appearing in an ivory lehenga that brings together pearlcore and mermaidcore—two of the most influential fashion movements shaping contemporary couture and bridal wear.
The Look Revealed
Manish Malhotra unveiled Sara Ali Khan’s ensemble on social media, presenting a couture lehenga designed to spotlight craftsmanship over excess. The ivory palette, combined with intricate pearl and crystal embellishment, positions the look as both timeless and trend-forward.
The ensemble reflects the designer’s ongoing exploration of pearls as a dominant couture element rather than a decorative accent.
Craftsmanship & Design Details
The lehenga features a sculpted godet skirt inspired by mermaid silhouettes, creating a fluid yet structured form. Hand-sewn pearls and Swarovski crystals are layered across the skirt, blouse, and drape, producing a soft luminosity rather than overt shine.
A backless blouse densely encrusted with pearls adds a contemporary edge, balancing sensuality with refinement. The overall construction reinforces the idea of couture as an heirloom—pieces designed to endure beyond seasonal trends.
Fashion Context: Pearlcore and Mermaidcore
Pearlcore has evolved into a defining fashion movement, extending pearls beyond jewellery into garments, accessories, and footwear. Once associated primarily with classic elegance, pearls are now being reinterpreted as modern, expressive design elements across global couture and red carpet fashion.
Mermaidcore, meanwhile, draws inspiration from fluid forms, oceanic textures, and sculptural silhouettes. The godet skirt and shimmering surface of Sara Ali Khan’s lehenga subtly echo this aesthetic, blending fantasy with wearable luxury.
Manish Malhotra’s design places both trends within an Indian couture framework, making them relevant for contemporary brides and festive wardrobes.
Styling Notes
To let the lehenga remain the focal point, Sara Ali Khan opted for a clean, classic updo with soft face-framing tendrils. Her makeup was kept minimal and luminous, complementing the ivory tones.
Accessories were intentionally understated—diamond studs and delicate rings—allowing the craftsmanship and texture of the ensemble to command attention.
A Growing Pearl Narrative in Couture
Sara Ali Khan’s look follows a similar pearl-forward moment by Janhvi Kapoor, who was earlier seen in a cream Manish Malhotra lehenga featuring layered pearls, leaf embroidery, and tonal stones.
The repetition of pearl-centric designs across collections signals a clear shift in couture direction—where pearls are no longer ornamental but central to storytelling and silhouette.
What’s Next?
As Bollywood continues to influence bridal and festive fashion, pearlcore and mermaidcore aesthetics are expected to dominate upcoming couture seasons. Sara Ali Khan’s Manish Malhotra look reinforces pearls as a modern statement of luxury, craftsmanship, and evolving tradition.
Jay-Ho! will update this story as more fashion moments emerge.
