'Princess Diaries' India edition: 5 iconic style moments from India’s most glamorous royals

A few days ago, a significant moment in pop culture was announced—The Princess Diaries 3 is officially in the works, with Anne Hathaway set to reprise her role as the beloved, klutzy princess Mia Thermopolis. For many who grew up watching and rewatching The Princess Diaries, this news brings back memories of peak teenage angst, the fabulous royal outfits, and dreams of ruling Genovia one day. 

But beyond the fairytale charm and reel-life princesses, the allure of real-life royals has long captured the world’s attention—particularly in India, where royalty is synonymous with tradition, opulence, and historical significance. And then there’s the fashion. From Gayatri Devi to Princess Diya Kumari, Indian royals have inspired generations with their timeless style. They’re elegant, they’re poised, they’re icons, and the proverbial flag bearers of quiet luxury. So, let’s take a moment to revisit some of the iconic looks from our favourite Indian royals this year and why they remain beacons of inspiration for fashion enthusiasts and admirers alike. 

Gauravi Kumari 

Princess Gauravi Kumari is recognised for much more than her royal title—she’s an entrepreneur and an advocate for women’s empowerment. Yet, her effortless style often takes centre stage. As she puts it, “People think I wake up wearing a tiara or in full princess attire, but that’s not the case. I usually wake up in normal attire, like block-printed pyjamas.” One of her standout looks features a sleek black Bally dress paired with archival museum-piece diamonds and a Cartier cuff. This blend of classic diamonds with a modern, edgy silhouette perfectly illustrates her ability to balance royal tradition with a contemporary global sensibility, reflecting both her heritage and forward-thinking approach to fashion.

Padmanabh Singh (Pacho)

The young Prince of Jaipur is not just a master at polo but also a master at the casual chic aesthetic. Often found at the City Palace, and seldom without a horse by his side, Pacho is the picture of laid-back fashion. The newest brand ambassador of U.S. Polo Assn. claims, “Fashion is an extension of art and an area that interests me a great deal,” a sentiment clearly echoed by his look at the opening of The Palace Atelier, featuring the Aloma Jacket by Ka-Sha, baggy denims, a basic white t-shirt and a classic gold chain. 

Mriganka Singh

The Princess of Jammu and Kashmir is an artist, entrepreneur, mother and even the ambassador of the jewellery brand Diacolor. In true regal fashion, she is often found in perfectly pleated sarees and elegant up-dos. This blue Adarsh Gill saree adorned with Diacolor’s jewellery brings out Singh’s beautiful features and gives us a glimpse of her poise. 

Amar Singh

The art patron and founder of The Amar Gallery in London is also a member of the Kapurthala Royal Family. He’s a women’s and LGBTQ+ rights activist who resides in London and is often found championing the causes he believes in through art showcased at his gallery. The man himself keeps his Instagram private and is almost exclusively seen only on his gallery’s Instagram page. In a casual video shot in his kitchen, Amar Singh is seen reciting a poem he wrote (talk about multifaceted). He's dressed in relaxed linen shorts and a white shirt with rolled-up sleeves, embodying an effortless, laid-back vibe.

Ibrahim and Sara Ali Khan

Representing the new generation of the nawabs of Pataudi, siblings Ibrahim and Sara Ali Khan bring a unique blend of Bollywood glamour and regal lineage to their fashion. 

Ibrahim’s Raghavendra Rathore bandhgala is a fresh take on royal tradition, showing off both his heritage and his personal style. 

Sara in this Torani saree brings a high-fashion dose of understated elegance. The bright colours, the ode to the rainbow in her caption, and the multicoloured matching jewellery set all come together to create a look that feels playful yet undeniably royal. 

Lead image credit: Signe Vilstrup 

Also read: The ultimate autumn/winter 2024 coat trends guide

Also read: The Met Gala 2025 theme—‘Superfine: Tailoring Black Style’—explained