In the world of Indian fashion, Sabyasachi Mukherjee has become synonymous with timeless bridal elegance, intricate craftsmanship, and an eye for detailing. But behind the designer’s iconic collections lies a story of deep personal connections and unforgettable moments with close friends and clients, one of which involves Bollywood actress Bipasha Basu. The tale of the “Bipasha blouse,” an iconic piece that has become synonymous with bridal fashion, is not only a tribute to their long-standing friendship but also a nod to Sabyasachi’s unique design sensibilities.
The blouse in question was created many years ago, long before it became a staple in Sabyasachi’s bridal collection. As Sabyasachi revealed in an interview, the blouse was initially designed for Bipasha Basu during her audition for the film ‘Raavan’, directed by Mani Ratnam. “We used to call her Bonnie in Kolkata,” Sabyasachi recalled, referring to the actress by her nickname. The original design of the blouse was intended for a scene in ‘Raavan’, which ultimately ended up on the cutting room floor, but Sabyasachi was determined not to let the beautiful piece go to waste.
The blouse, with its daring plunging neckline and elegant arm coverage, was unlike anything of its time – feminine, bold, and subtly sensual. Sabyasachi, in his signature style, decided to keep the piece in the atelier, and thus, the “Bipasha blouse” was born. Over time, it became an iconic design that every bride dreamed of wearing. The bold, yet graceful silhouette of the blouse became a statement of sensuality and sophistication, and it wasn’t long before it became a must-have for brides-to-be across the globe.
In fact, the “Bipasha blouse” grew so popular that Sabyasachi’s team created thousands of versions for brides, with reports stating that as many as 25,000 to 30,000 pieces were sold over the years. Its demand soared, and what started as a one-off design for Bipasha Basu had turned into a bridal fashion phenomenon. According to Sabyasachi, “It was quite sexual for its time,” referring to the blouse’s daring cut. Despite its boldness, it maintained a sense of refinement, with covered arms and a deep, suggestive neckline that made it incredibly chic.
Years later, when Bipasha was preparing for her own wedding to actor Karan Singh Grover, she visited Sabyasachi’s store to check out some pieces. To her surprise, she found herself looking at the iconic blouse, which by then had become a symbol of bridal elegance. “She looked at the blouse and exclaimed, ‘Oh my God, it’s got my name written all over it!’” Sabyasachi chuckled and replied, “Quite literally.”
From that moment on, the “Bipasha blouse” wasn’t just a design; it was a piece of fashion history—an enduring symbol of the designer’s ability to blend sensuality with sophistication. The blouse is, to this day, one of the most iconic creations to come out of Sabyasachi’s atelier. It has been worn by countless brides, with its deep neckline and classic design making it a standout feature in wedding collections.
In total, Sabyasachi’s brand has sold over 250,000 pieces of this blouse, with brides across India and around the world opting for its elegant, yet seductive style. The fact that the blouse has remained a central piece in Sabyasachi’s bridal collections for years is a testament to the timelessness of his designs and the lasting influence of his creative vision.
What began as a special piece made for a close friend and a film audition has, over the years, evolved into a global sensation. The “Bipasha blouse” is now a symbol of Sabyasachi’s unmatched skill in creating bridal wear that is both modern and rooted in tradition—designs that speak not just to the aesthetic desires of brides, but also to their dreams of elegance, beauty, and love.
