India’s First Fashion Icon: Maharani Gayatri Devi

Maharani Gayatri Devi, also known as Rajmata Gayatri Devi, who was a prominent Indian royal, politician, philanthropist and also a celebrated fashion icon. She was born on May 23, 1919, London, United Kingdom. Gayatri Devi hailed from the esteemed royal lineage of Cooch Behar, situated in the state of West Bengal, India. She married Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Bahadur on 9 May 1940. In an Interview, she said “I learnt style from my mother; she taught me all about style – she was one of the most fashionable, most independent and most modern Maharanis yet she always insisted ‘she was ordinary.'” Her mother Maharani Indira Devi of Couch Behar, British India was praised for her captivating sense of fashion. She once told that her mother always knew the best places to buy anything and she shopped all over the world. In that era, Indian royals frequently embarked on journeys to European capitals to indulge their desires. Indira Devi's fondness for chiffon fabric took root in Paris. Chiffon, a material with a long history, symbolized opulence and extravagance due to its silk composition, which unfortunately made it less washable. Interestingly, the term "chiffon" originates from an old French word meaning 'rag' – a rather unexpected moniker for a fabric associated with royalty. Chiffon gained wider popularity post the 1930s when it began being produced using nylon, rendering it more budget-friendly and accessible to the general public. Although it is now commonly employed for crafting saris, it was Indira Devi of Cooch Behar who ingeniously applied chiffon to the traditional sari. The art of draping chiffon saris to evoke a whimsical, enchanting appearance ultimately evolved into Gayatri Devi's distinctive and recognizable style. Fun Fact:- Indira Devi was the first woman to bring chiffon into mainstream fashion and incorporate this trend into sarees.

Source:- Pinterest

Source:- Pinterest

After India gained independence and the subsequent dissolution of the princely states, she transitioned into a highly accomplished political figure. She loved horses and playing Polo, she played an important role in reviving the Jaipur Polo Team. She was in 'The Ten Most Beautiful Women of the World' along with actress Leela Naidu by the Vogue Magazine. She was placed sixth after Princess Grace of Monaco, Queen Rania of Jordan, Kate Middleton, Princess Diana of Wales and Princess Charlotte of Monaco. and ahead of Princess Madeleine of Sweden, Crown Princess Mary of Denmark, Princess Margaret and Princess Masako of Japan.

Renowned Indian fashion designer Sabyasachi paid homage to the Maharani's style by crafting an exclusive set of five saris for his Spring/Summer 2013 collection. Emulating the Maharani's preferences, Sabyasachi fashioned these saris in gentle hues of creams, pinks, and blues. Employing luxurious French materials like organza, satin, and tulle, he artfully paired them with satin blouses featuring elegantly extended ten-inch sleeves.

She embodies grace and an unmatched aura of glamour, living life on her own unique terms and leaving an indelible mark on history. Maharani's distinctive approach to chiffon sarees evolved into an iconic signature style that garnered worldwide acclaim. The understated blouses, gentle pastels, subtly impactful pearl accessories, intricate emerald jewelry, meticulously selected lipstick shades – all these elements compose her unmistakable style, which continues to command attention even after many years. Yet, her enduring statements extended beyond the realm of chiffon sarees, encompassing a legacy that transcends her elegant fashion choices.

Source:- Pinterest

Lately, many royal women used to wear predictable benarasi sarees, demure hair plaits and elegant buns but she followed her own fashion rules. With unwavering confidence, she embraced a stylish bob haircut that would go on to spark experimentation among Indian women with their own hair. Her regal highness effortlessly sported subtle and subdued makeup, but it was her fearless embrace of vibrant lipstick shades, notably bold reds and captivating crimsons, that truly exuded an unapologetic aura of glamour.

Source:- Pinterest

Maharani’s take on chiffon saree became a huge trademark and people started it to recognize it more, it gain more global recognition. She displayed an exceptional level of care when it came to details, whether it involved harmonizing her jewelry with her attire, arranging accessories flawlessly, or making the perfect footwear selection. Maharani’s wardrobe was the finest of all it was a testament to her unwavering commitment to perfection and attention to even the finest details. Every aspect of her attire was meticulously curated, reflecting her exquisite taste and refined sensibilities. rom the carefully chosen fabrics of her sarees, adorned with intricate embroideries and traditional motifs, to the precise draping that accentuated her regal poise, each element was thoughtfully considered. Her jewelry, a symphony of precious gemstones and metals, was meticulously coordinated to complement her ensembles, creating a harmonious visual narrative.

Maharani’s skill in blending Indian aesthetics with Western silhouettes added a perfect touch to Indo-western attires. Tailored dresses and gowns were flawlessly paired with accessories that elevated her look, showcasing her ability to seamlessly blend cultural influences. Even her makeup and hairstyles were a testament to her attention to detail. Subtle and elegant, her makeup highlighted her natural beauty while her hairstyles, be it a classic bun adorned with fresh flowers or cascading waves, added the final touch of sophistication

Source:- Pinterest

Every intricate aspect of her clothing, from the selection of color combinations to the choice of accessories, demonstrated her methodical approach. This exceptional dedication to precision played a significant role in establishing Gayatri Devi as an admired and timeless fashion icon. Her royal jewelry assortment was a grand exhibition of lavishness and sophisticated preference. Adorned with an array of precious gemstones like shimmering diamonds, lush emeralds, and vibrant rubies, her collection of necklaces, chokers, earrings, and bangles symbolized flawless craftsmanship and enduring elegance. Each jewelry piece was carefully chosen to harmonize with her attire and elevate her majestic presence. The necklaces draped elegantly, the earrings glimmered with every gesture, and the bangles contributed a melodious tinkling to her strides. The designs presented intricate motifs and scrupulous attention to detail, mirroring her keen discernment for excellence and aesthetics.

Whenever, She used to attend formal events or her everyday elegant look, her regal jewelry was her constant companion, adding a remarkable aura of majesty to her presence. Gayatri Devi was considered Fashion Icon in both India and Europe.

Gayatri Devi's Western outfits were a testament to her cosmopolitan way of life and her skillful fusion of traditional Indian allure with contemporary elegance. Her selection of Western attire, while rooted in her regal background, revealed her forward-thinking and dynamic fashion instincts. With a remarkable finesse, she effortlessly adorned dresses and gowns that seamlessly combined classic Western designs with her inherent royal grace. These carefully chosen ensembles not only accentuated her figure but also radiated an understated charm that spoke volumes of her refined taste.

Source:- Pinterest

Her tailored Western clothing was graced with an array of timeless touches, from delicate embellishments to clean and sleek lines. Her accessories, often pearls or exquisite gemstones, complemented her outfits, adding a touch of regal opulence to her overall look. Gayatri Devi's hairstyles further elevated her appearance, whether showcasing a chic bob or elegantly arranged waves. In essence, her tailored Western attire symbolized more than just fashion; it encapsulated her ability to break away from convention and create a harmonious fusion of cultures and styles. It served as a testament to her role as a fashion visionary who effortlessly merged her royal heritage with contemporary influences, leaving a lasting imprint on the world of fashion.

Source:- Pinterest

Source:- Pinterest

She always paired these dresses with accessories to have a perfect balance between modernity and traditional look. In her choice, she always used to choose an ensemble of pearls or gemstones, added a touch of regality to her Western ensembles. Her style was the perfect touch of traditional Indian and modernity, making her a true fashion icon of her era. The heart of her signature look was obviously chiffon saree, draped delicately around her, The best look of her! Her signature look embodied more than just fashion; it encapsulated her strong sense of identity, confidence, and individuality. It was a reflection of her unwavering commitment to elegance, both in her clothing choices and in her demeanor. Gayatri Devi’s signature style continues to inspire and captivate, leaving an indelible mark on the world of fashion and culture.

Source:- Pinterest

Gayatri Devi used to believe in minimalistic make up, enhancing her own natural beauty. Her makeup was a study in refined subtlety, with soft muted tones that accentuated her natural beauty. The pièce de résistance was her choice of bold and vibrant lipstick shades, particularly reds and crimsons, that added a bold contrast to her otherwise muted makeup, showcasing her unapologetic flair for glamour. It was the master of refined sophistication, while trying to maintain an air of timeless elegance.

Source:- Pinterest

She used to wear oversized sunglasses, it introduced a touch of Hollywood glamour to her look. An aesthetic appealing look, they were a statement that elevated her elegance. Gayatri Devi's distinctive large sunglasses were a legendary fashion embellishment, infusing an air of mystery and sophistication into her already enchanting demeanor. These sunglasses seamlessly merged with her persona, becoming inseparable from her visual identity and an unmistakable hallmark of her appearance.

Source:- Pinterest

As a guardian of delicate chiffon sarees adorned with intricate patterns and resplendent Basra pearls, Gayatri Devi introduced a distinctive blend of individuality, liberation, and allure to the traditional royal style. She gracefully exchanged ornate gotta-laden ghaghras and traditional Rajasthani Borlas for luminous pearls and khaki pants on polo grounds, while sarees remained her choice for welcoming international guests. Gayatri Devi's transformative influence extended to the realm of fashion, reshaping the definition of royalty on a global stage. Her collection, immortalized in vintage photographs that captivate enthusiasts like myself, offers a glimpse into her world. From her assortment of tapestry bags and preference for understated borders to her embodiment of the empowering allure of red lipstick, every facet of her style paints a vivid portrait. Her affinity for chiffon fabric, borrowed from her mother Indira Devi, soon evolved into a defining feature of her wardrobe. Chiffon, woven into the fabric of her identity, remains an enduring symbol associated with her legacy. The Maharani's fashion choices wielded the power to transform India's traditional silhouettes, with her love for sarees transcending borders and capturing hearts across the globe.

Source:- Pinterest

Gayatri Devi emanated an unshakable aura of self-assurance and grace that positioned her as the embodiment of elegance. Her bearing was marked by a majestic self-confidence that effortlessly commanded attention and reverence. Every action, whether she engaged in conversation or walked, exuded an unmistakable sense of self-assuredness, captivating and motivating all who had the privilege of observing her. Gayatri Devi's poise was a manifestation of sophisticated refinement, seamlessly blending her regal stature with an inviting approachability, endearing her to individuals from diverse backgrounds. Whether gracing royal occasions or mingling with the public, she projected an unflappable composure that mirrored her inner fortitude. Her poised presence was a declaration of her profound self-identity and her ability to navigate varying scenarios with unparalleled ease.

The self-confidence and poise that radiated from Gayatri Devi weren't mere surface attributes; they were deeply ingrained qualities that left an indelible impression on those fortunate enough to cross her path. Her unwavering self-assured demeanor continues to inspire, embodying the essence of genuine nobility and timeless sophistication.

Source:- Pinterest

Maharani Gayatri Devi passed away on July 29, 2009. Leaving a remarkable legacy of how a fashion icon be in a very sophisticated manner and a humble person. She made a world record of winning the Lok Sabha seat with the highest percentage of votes (97.4%) in the world at that time. She wrote two books, “A Princess Remembers” and “A Princess Remembers: The Memoirs of the Maharani of Jaipur,” which provided insights into her life and experiences.