Actress Sonam Kapoor Ahuja has long been recognized as a force of fashion influence, known for her roles on screen as well as her keen sartorial sense off-screen. She has built for herself a reputation of a trendsetter, particularly acclaimed for transforming the landscape of red carpet fashion in the bustling heart of Bollywood. Cherished for her style-savvy appearances and collaboration with top-tier global luxury brands, she stands as a tall figure in the entertainment and fashion industry.
Sonam grew up in an environment steeped in the culture of fashion, which deeply influenced her aesthetic sensibilities. Her mother, a fashion designer, served as an early inspiration, cultivating Sonam’s understanding and appreciation of style. Reflecting on her beginnings in the film industry, Sonam noticed a lacuna in the red carpet scene in Bollywood. Red carpet events were not the norm, and this is where she saw an opportunity to make a distinct mark.
“I love fashion,” Sonam disclosed, describing the formative influence of her upbringing on her career choices. “When I entered the industry, I noticed that red carpet looks were not so common, in fact non-existent. But I have always wanted to wear beautiful things and make a statement on the red carpet.”
Her pursuit of beauty and her passion for both films and fashion propelled her into a role where she could influence the red carpet narrative. Always stylishly turned out, Sonam’s fashion picks have often commanded attention and spurred dialogue about the evolving style quotient at Indian film events. Her vision was not merely to dress beautifully but also to initiate a broader appreciation for fashion as an art within the film fraternity.
“My passion for films and fashion led me to create that impact,” she explained. “I am enjoying fashion and beautiful things without taking myself too seriously. Fashion is supposed to be fun, an escape. It’s important to appreciate the beauty and goodness in life.”
Indeed, Sonam’s impact has not gone unnoticed, with a recent global fashion report placing her among the high-impact celebrities for luxury fashion brands in 2023, alongside international names like Zendaya, Kylie Jenner, Kendall Jenner, Blackpink, and BTS. This recognition underscores her influence and her ability to set trends that resonate on a global scale.
On the cinematic frontier, Sonam recently graced the silver screen in ‘Blind’, directed by Shome Makhija. The film, which also stars Purab Kohli, Vinay Pathak, and Lillete Dubey, marked her return after a notable hiatus due to maternity leave. Fans can look forward to her next appearance in ‘Battle for Bittora’, while the details of other projects remain tightly under wraps.
Speaking candidly about her work-life balance post-motherhood, Sonam laid out her plan for future engagements. “I took two years off as I was pregnant and then wanted to take some time off with my son. Two years are not done yet, and I have signed onto two projects – one show and one film that I will start working on. They will release in another year because that is how films work.”
Her commitment to family is evident in her decision to focus on a limited number of projects each year. “Then my idea is to do two pieces of content every year, that’s it, not more because I want to spend time with my family as well,” she shared.
Sonam Kapoor Ahuja’s evolution from a fresh-faced actress to a fashion-forward icon and doting mother is a journey of self-discovery, ambition, and elegance. As she navigates the dual paths of parenthood and professional pursuits, she maintains her position as a stalwart of style, perpetually redefining the norm and bringing a sense of sophistication and glamour to Bollywood’s red carpets.
