Smrutha Santhosh Becomes First British-Indian Fashion Designer to Walk the Cannes Red Carpet, Dressing Rachanaa Jain in a Showstopping Look
CANNES, FRANCE – Smrutha Santhosh, founder of Styling by WOW Vastra, made history at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival as the first British-Indian fashion designer to walk the prestigious red carpet. Her debut marked a powerful moment of cultural pride, sustainability, and artisanal excellence on the global stage.
Santhosh captivated Cannes not only with her own stunning ensemble, but also by dressing British singer and actress Rachanaa Jain in a couture masterpiece that turned heads and sparked international acclaim.
The Showstopper: Peacock Royale Lehenga
Rachanaa Jain wore the Peacock Royale Lehenga, a regal creation that featured a six-metre train made of cruelty-free artificial peacock feathers and handwoven Kanchivaram silk. Paired with antique temple jewelry engraved with goddess icons, the look was a visual symphony of divinity, heritage, and grandeur.
This extraordinary couture piece was brought to life through:
• 240 hours of handweaving
• 250 hours of intricate Aari embroidery
• 150 hours of feather artistry
Smrutha’s Own Red Carpet Look
Smrutha Santhosh herself walked the red carpet in a contemporary-draped Ahimsa silk Kanchivaram saree—ethically crafted from non-violent silk and styled with bold statement jewelry. Her ensemble symbolized strength, sustainability, and timeless South Indian craftsmanship, making her debut even more impactful.
Industry Recognition
The fashion world took notice. Prominent Bollywood actors Rahul Bhat and Makarand Deshpande praised both Smrutha and Rachanaa for their bold, culturally rich appearance, which stood out in a sea of international couture.
Flawless Finishing Touches
Celebrity makeup artist Rooby, founder of Make Up by Rooby, completed Rachanaa’s and Smrutha’s red carpet look with refined, radiant makeup that elevated the ensemble’s elegance and presence.
WOW Vastra: More Than Fashion
Under the banner “The Complete Look,” Styling by WOW Vastra is renowned for blending India’s rich textile heritage—like Banarasi and Kanchivaram silk—with modern silhouettes. Smrutha’s Cannes debut wasn’t just a personal milestone; it was a celebration of South Indian artistry and empowered design.
She also designed costumes for Rachanaa Jain’s upcoming international film Bling Power, a Bollywood-Hollywood crossover, signaling her rising influence in both fashion and cinema.
At the heart of WOW Vastra is a mission to empower women artisans from rural and underrepresented communities. Through dignified employment and creative collaboration, Smrutha transforms fashion into a tool for healing and impact.
“This is not just fashion,” says Smrutha. “It’s purpose-driven design.”
Styling by WOW Vastra is more than a label—it’s a movement. Where heritage meets innovation, and every thread tells a story of resilience, elegance, and soul.
Want your own red carpet moment?
Contact Smrutha now to create your own affordable luxury outfit—custom-designed to celebrate your unique story and style.
Connect with Styling by WOW Vastra
Website: www.wowvastra.com
Instagram: @styling by wow vastra
Facebook: @styling by wow vastra
