Hindi serials were mass fashion being silently influenced in their ways. Before Instagram influencers and Pinterest mood boards, the bahus and betis of the prime time soaps created sorting and agitation throughout India for wardrobes. However, these serials were not only mediums that churned family drama-they took it upon themselves to be fashion trendsetters, especially when it came to ethnic wear.
From gaudy sarees to glittering lehengas to fusion salwar sets and the screaming bindis, the TV drama actors further carved the way Indian audiences thought about ethnic fashion. With the trend of TV dramas still kicking in 2025, a little recap of some of the most iconic fashion moments on screen that have since transferred from reel to real looks is needed.
1. Tulsi Virani’s Sarees – Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi
One of the earliest icons of ethnic fashion on television, Smriti Irani’s Tulsi became a national favorite with her simple yet elegant cotton and chiffon sarees. Always paired with a big red bindi and long sindoor streaks, her look became a household staple. Women across age groups embraced the “daily wear saree” with similar blouse cuts, muted tones, and traditional prints. Her wardrobe was as constant as her values—deeply rooted in tradition.
2. Parvati Agarwal’s Jewels – Kahaani Ghar Ghar Kii
While Tulsi kept it subtle, Sakshi Tanwar’s Parvati brought out the grandeur. From temple jewelry to heavy kundan sets, her look turned every episode into a mini-wedding sequence. Costume jewelry sellers across India saw a rise in demand for similar necklaces, maang-tikkas, and jhumkas. Her regal sarees—silks with zari borders—became aspirational ethnic wear, especially during festive seasons.
3. Anandi’s Ghagras – Balika Vadhu
A refreshing departure from the urban saree-clad protagonist, Balika Vadhu brought back traditional Rajasthani fashion to the forefront. Anandi’s brightly colored ghagras with mirror work, paired with dupattas draped over her head, captured attention across urban and rural India alike. Her look not only revived interest in regional handwork but also gave a major boost to local artisans and textile sellers.
4. Akshara Blended Style – Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai
Akshara Hina as was undoubtedly the fine example demonstrating that TV dramas of the era eventually became carriers of fusions and ethnic styles. Her wardrobe was a combination of salwar suits or lehengas in pastel color and light makeup with modern jewellery. It was that perfect balance between new age and traditional, thereby setting the tone for the millennial generation when it came to festive dressing. Akshara’s looks have transformed over the years as she blossomed from a young bride to a dignified matriarch.
5. Gopi Bahu’s Saree Glow-Up – Saath Nibhaana Saathiya
From clumsy beginnings to polished perfection, Gopi Bahu’s wardrobe transformation was an entire arc in itself. Her later looks—rich georgette sarees, sleek hair buns, and defined eyes—found fans among young homemakers. The infamous kitchen scenes might’ve been meme material, but her ethnic outfits were anything but forgettable.
Why Ethnic Fashion in TV Dramas Works So Well
Hindi serials are built on emotional resonance, and clothing plays a huge role in communicating values, mood, and cultural identity. With episodes airing five times a week, viewers form deep connections with characters—and their wardrobes. The frequency of appearance, cultural familiarity, and aspirational value all contribute to these TV dramas’ trend moments turning into offline fashion movements.
Looking Ahead: The 2025 Take
Today, TV dramas continue to influence fashion but with a twist. Shows like Anupamaa and Pandya Store are embracing simpler silhouettes with sustainable, handloom textiles. There’s also a visible push toward regional authenticity and body inclusivity. While OTT has brought edgier wardrobes, traditional ethnic looks still dominate prime-time television and continue to shape the way India dresses at weddings, festivals, and even work-from-home routines.
From saree drapes to \jewelry choices, Hindi TV dramas have consistently set fashion standards for millions. As long as characters live through love, loss, and endless plot twists in beautiful ethnic wear, the TV drama trend will continue to define India’s fashion imagination.