Khushi Kapoor’s sleek look for Rimzim Dadu with a nod to the payal is a symbol of both beauty and power.
At this year’s India Couture Week (ICW) 2025, Khushi
Kapoor turned heads as the showstopper for Rimzim Dadu. She looked stunning in a gunmetal hued lehenga set that was inspired by the Banjara Tribe Vibes from Gujarat. However, what caught everyone’s attention was not only her ensemble that drew from centuries of cultural symbolism, but also the anklet, or payal, which was reimagined as a central design element.
Rimzim Dadu’s Language of Material
Since Dadu is known for turning unconventional materials like steel wires and silicone into wearable art, she has always managed to blur the line between fashion and sculpture. This season, her designs leaned towards archaeological elegance. Kapoor’s sleek, almost armor-like silhouette, which was inspired by the delicate links of traditional oxidised payals, is a symbol of both beauty and power.
Khushi’s couture moment, which was rooted in Dadu’s signature style of metallic cords, sculptural silhouettes, and contemporary textures, featured a slit and a high-waist fitting, with a halter neck blouse sans sleeves. The outfit, woven with heritage-inspired detail, was accessorized with bold metallic accents around the ankle, apart from trailing chains, and rhythmic embellishments. The raw yet futuristic outfit oozed feminine grace and power at the same time.
The Payal as Cultural Code
For those caught unaware, the anklet was more than jewelry in classical India. It is an essential part of poetry, politics, and identity. From temple dancers to queens, it is a symbol of femininity to status.
Anklets in Indian culture have been worn for thousands of years, and have been part of Indus Valley figurines, and ancient Sanskrit poetry. They were traditionally worn to mark transitions of women, from girlhood to womanhood, marriage, and more.
By invoking the anklet in a contemporary couture, both Dadu and Kapoor have managed to recontextualize a deeply feminine artifact that speaks of strength, and agency.
The Modern Muse: Khushi Kapoor
For Khushi Kapoor, the ICW appearance isn’t just another runway walk, but also puts her in a place where glamour blends with storytelling. As India Couture Week continues to evolve beyond bridal lehengas, Khushi Kapoor’s look is a testament of how Indian couture can lean into identity, intellect, and innovation. And her anklet-inspired moment stood out for the meaning.
