Some costumes do more than complement a performance—they become part of cinema history. More than three decades after the release of Yash Chopra’s romantic classic Lamhe, acclaimed costume designer Neeta Lulla has revealed the remarkable craftsmanship behind one of Sridevi’s most unforgettable screen looks.
The elegant white ensemble worn by Sridevi in the song “Kabhi Main Kahoon” has long been admired for its effortless beauty. However, according to Lulla, achieving that seemingly simple look required extensive experimentation, multiple layers of fabric, and meticulous attention to every detail.
“The Hardest Outfit I Ever Created”
Sharing the story in a recent Instagram video, Neeta Lulla described the costume as one of the most technically challenging creations of her career.
She explained that designing a flawless white outfit for the camera proved far more difficult than many people would imagine. Although audiences saw a graceful flowing dress on screen, the creative process involved numerous design revisions before the final version was ready for filming.
Four Chiffon Sarees Were Used to Create the Signature Look
Instead of stitching the outfit from a single piece of fabric, Lulla revealed that she selected three to four white georgette chiffon sarees to build the dress.
The multiple layers helped create the soft movement and flowing silhouette that became one of the defining visual elements of the song.
According to the designer, the extra fabric gave the costume the volume needed to move naturally in outdoor locations while maintaining the elegance that matched the film’s romantic aesthetic.
Why White Was the Biggest Challenge
Lulla also revealed that the greatest obstacle came after the dress was assembled.
When a standard white lining was added beneath the chiffon, it appeared too prominent through the outer fabric, disrupting the delicate visual effect she wanted to achieve.
After experimenting with different techniques, the team decided to insert an additional layer of chiffon beneath the dress. This helped diffuse the brightness of the lining, allowing the costume to appear softer and more natural on camera.
The solution ultimately created the dreamy finish that audiences remember today.
Small Details Made a Big Difference
The designer shared another interesting detail from the costume’s creation.
Rather than using a conventional belt, scarves were specially adapted and tied around Sridevi’s waist to complete the styling. The off-shoulder design further enhanced the outfit’s graceful appearance, contributing to its timeless appeal.
These subtle design choices helped transform a simple white dress into one of Bollywood’s most recognizable costumes.
Switzerland’s Scenic Landscape Elevated the Costume
The song was filmed amid the breathtaking landscapes of Switzerland, but Lulla admitted she had little idea how the heavily layered dress would appear on screen until she watched the completed footage.
To enhance movement, portions of the fabric were carefully slit and textured before filming.
Combined with Yash Chopra’s sweeping aerial cinematography, the costume appeared to float effortlessly against the mountain backdrop.
Lulla recalled being pleasantly surprised by the final visuals, particularly the helicopter shots that showcased the flowing silhouette in motion. Those images have since become some of the most celebrated moments from Lamhe.
Why White Remains the Most Difficult Colour in Costume Design
In the caption accompanying her Instagram post, Neeta Lulla reflected on why white is among the most demanding colours for costume designers.
She explained that every aspect—from fabric selection and silhouette to lighting and camera behaviour—must be carefully considered because white reacts differently under various filming conditions.
According to Lulla, costumes that appear effortless on screen are often the result of countless hours of planning, craftsmanship, and technical precision behind the scenes.
A Timeless Bollywood Fashion Legacy
Released in 1991, Lamhe remains one of Yash Chopra’s most celebrated films and is widely regarded as one of Sridevi’s finest performances. Over the years, the actress’s flowing white ensemble from “Kabhi Main Kahoon” has become an enduring symbol of Bollywood fashion, inspiring designers, stylists, and cinema lovers across generations.
Sridevi’s remarkable screen presence, paired with Neeta Lulla’s thoughtful costume design, created a cinematic moment that continues to resonate more than three decades later.
Today, the story behind the dress offers a reminder that some of Indian cinema’s most iconic fashion moments are born not from extravagance, but from patience, innovation, and exceptional craftsmanship.
