‘Rustom’ Is Helping Break Parsi Fashion Stereotypes In India

Ileana D’Cruz as Cynthia Pavri is giving an insight into Parsi fashion in India in the ’50s.

Ileana D’Cruz on a recent magazine cover, and a poster in Rustom. (Photo courtesy: Instagram/ ileanaofficial/ Zee Studios)

(This story is from The Quint’s archives and was first published on 14 July 2016.)

Even as the film is raking in the moolah at the box office, we can’t help gushing over Ileana D’Cruz’s retro avatar in Rustom. Dressed as a pretty Parsi belle in ’50s India, Ileana is sporting some of the most beautiful - and authentic - ensembles we have seen on the silver screen in recent times. And while at it, she’s giving us a glimpse of Parsi fashion in India - beyond stereotypes - during that period. Costume designer Ameira Punvani sure seems to have done a great job.

Check out Ileana’s top eight looks in the film.

The sunny portrait collared, buttoned-up bow dress is a perfect vintage number, especially for a romantic song. (Photo: YouTube)

Large checks were big in that era, and Ileana shows off a simple yet beautiful number that’s set off with a broad belt that tapers on the sides. (Photo: YouTube)

Parsis have always been renowned for their sartorial aesthetics, and Rustom showcases this commendably. Check out this beautiful white-and-pink sari paired with a boat-neck blouse with see-through sleeves. Very chic, very classic. (Photo: YouTube)

Pop-coloured halter-neck beach suit? Check. Large retro beach sunglasses? Check. Polka-dotted bow hairband? Check. Bottom line? A perfect beach ensemble - not to forget the hot hunk on Ileana’s arms. (Photo: YouTube)

What we dig about this flowy dress in classic shades are those little black bows - on the shoulder and along the sides. Retro yet very, very cool. (Photo: YouTube)

Ileana sports a vintage high-collared red long coat paired with leather gloves, a small black handbag and those terribly chic cat eye shades. (Photo: YouTube)

Another beautiful chiffon pale pink number, this time with the border and blouse embroidered. Ileana pairs it with some dazzling gems. (Photo: YouTube)

Majestic and sexy, this boat-cum-V-necked cap-sleeved evening gown that shows off Ileana’s svelte frame is a complete showstopper. (Photo: YouTube)