The multifaceted Natasha Poonawalla impeccably personifies the quote, “More is more, less is a bore.” While browsing through her over-the-top Instagram feed, one can’t help but feel like they’re flipping through the covers of an editorial magazine. Her visionary knack and pulse for understanding fashion keep her ahead of the game.
For someone who embodies maximalism, her style is truly a feast for the eyes. This fashion connoisseur knows how to carry high-end fashion with effortless grace and confidence, unafraid of public opinion. Whether she’s donning extravagant pieces at galas, attending illustrious events like Cannes and the Met Gala, or simply sharing a frame with close friend Christian Louboutin, Natasha never fails to make us stop and stare. Here are some of her marvellous looks that have set the fashion world abuzz and displayed her love for all things maximalism.
Modern Maharani
Natasha Poonawala rightfully dominated the scene at the Ambani-Merchant wedding as she represented the glory of India in this ensemble by Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla. The silhouette is a synergy of various cultural marvels like the craftsmanship of Awadh Banarasi brocade of Benaras, Bandhani of Kutch, and pure Dhakai of Bangladesh, bound together to create an artisanal masterpiece. The kurta is reminiscent of a royal groom’s turban, secured with a Sehra swaying with strings of pearls. The meticulous hand embroidery that’s adorned with vibrant stones adds the perfect spice, making her truly a sight to behold.
Otherworldly Charisma
Her look at Met Gala 2022 pushed sartorial boundaries to a whole new dimension, bestowing upon her an aura reminiscent of a galactic goddess. The silhouette was nothing less than a wearable work of art that deserves its spot in a glass casket for generations to witness. The heavily or rather heavenly bedecked champagne gold saree was cinched with an armour-esque metallic gold corset that showcases enthralling architectural curvatures. The look is finished off with vivaciously encrusted ornate jewellery. The Sabyasachi meets Schiaparelli creation spotlighted the designers’ individual strengths, culminating in a cohesive and impactful design.
Flower Power
This look would have surely made Iris Apfel a fan, too! Natasha’s selection of Marni couture for the Serpentine Gallery Summer Party in 2024 was a masterclass in modern elegance, delivering a breathtaking moment of haute couture brilliance. The dress feels like a canvas that is cached with vivacious floral patches that resemble ginormous stickers. The ball gown was complimented with a brazen choice of accessories and a voluminous blow-out that lent her an 80s Hollywood charm.
Museum-Worthy Marvel
The fashion savant was a sight to behold in yet another custom couture by Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla and Schiaparelli, perfectly capturing what happens when eminent Indian and international design ethos converges. The luxurious craftsmanship depicts the richness and extravagance of Indian culture. The ensemble, with a thigh-high slit, spotlights spectacular Zardozi and Swarovski embroidery, making it the star of the outfit, given its pitch-black base. The magnificence was further heightened by a dramatic cape and edgy gold-detailed boots, culminating in a look that unequivocally commanded the centre stage.
Futuristic Finesse
Poonawala holds an innate ability to transform any ensemble into a show-stopper, which never fails to astonish us. For the 2023 Met Gala, where the theme was centred around the memory of Karl Lagerfeld, she decided to pay homage to the stalwart by donning an avant-garde body-hugging dress by Schiaparelli. The metallic dress is an ode to the designer’s pet, Choupette. The dress’s sharp, pointed edges frame her face perfectly, while her minimal makeup, sleek ponytail, and absence of accessories only enhance its striking impact.
Dial Up the Drama
When it comes to serving unforgettable looks, Natasha Poonawalla stands in a league of her own. At the 2024 Met Gala, themed “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion,” she arrived in a custom Maison Margiela creation designed by John Galliano. The white bodycon ensemble was complemented by scintillating jewellery, but the torn black chiffon detailing truly stole the show. Her dramatic puffy beret, adorned with cobweb-like details, added a whimsical touch, as if plucked from a forgotten treasure chest.
Cultural Charm
At Anant and Radhika’s Hastaakshar ceremony, Poonawalla draped herself in a craft-focused drape from Pankaj S. Heritage. Featuring a Kamasutra choli that pays tribute to traditional jewellery, the saree blends modern and vintage influences with elaborate glass beadwork. The chikankari fabric, renowned for its museum-quality artistry, is further enhanced by intricate Kharra Gota detailing. The ensemble is completed with precious stone embellishments that reflect the grandeur of Sri Krishna Raas Leela.
A Knack For Black
Natasha Poonawalla demonstrates the undeniable power of a simple black ensemble, solidifying its status as a timeless colour. At the 75th Annual Cannes Film Festival, she captivated audiences in a futuristic saree by Gaurav Gupta, exuding a “dressed to kill” vibe. The saree featured a plunging neckline with a corset detail and exaggerated swirls, while gold accessories and a bold eye look impeccably punctuated the outfit.
Natasha Poonawalla’s high-voltage glamour is no easy feat, reflecting a unique sophistication that’s challenging to replicate. The fashion-forward multi-hyphenate’s inventive approach to reimagining silhouettes has made her the talk of the town in the national and global fashionscape. Her path-breaking looks are a lesson that nothing is off-limits when it comes to fashion. With each appearance, her sartorial choices continue to push the boundaries, thereby emerging as artworks in motion.