The Bollywood star and global brand ambassador has joined the ranks of fashion’s most influential voices, marking a historic first for India on one of the world’s most exclusive cultural stages.
Breaking New Ground in Global Fashion
Deepika Padukone, one of India’s most recognizable film actors and an international ambassador for Louis Vuitton, has been named to the jury of the 2025 LVMH Prize, making her the first Indian ever to hold the role. The annual award, overseen by the French luxury conglomerate, is considered among the most prestigious platforms for emerging designers.
Padukone sat alongside industry icons including Stella McCartney, Pharrell Williams, and other leading creative directors at the final round in Paris, where eight designers presented their collections before the jury selected a winner.
A Star on Screen and Now on the Jury
The moment solidified Padukone’s shift from film stardom to global cultural influencer. “This award celebrates creativity, resilience, and originality—the very qualities that have shaped my journey as an artist,” she said during the presentation.
The prize was ultimately awarded to Shota Moji of Soshiotsuki, a Japanese designer recognized for his innovative tailoring. Padukone was among the jurors who presented him with the trophy, cementing her place in a circle long dominated by Western fashion arbiters.
Making a Statement Beyond Words
Padukone’s appearance itself made headlines. She arrived at the Fondation Louis Vuitton in Paris wearing a striking fringe-embellished golden mini skirt paired with an oversized printed silk shirt—a look fashion critics described as a balance of elegance and theatrical flair. The outfit underscored her ability to merge Bollywood glamour with high-fashion credibility.
A Broader Shift in Representation
Her appointment reflects a broader evolution within luxury fashion, where voices from outside Europe and the United States are increasingly shaping global taste. For India, it represents not only a symbolic milestone but also a recognition of its growing cultural influence.
Deepika Padukone’s place on the LVMH Prize jury marks more than personal triumph—it is a signal that global fashion’s gatekeepers are widening their circle, and India, through her, has claimed a seat at the table.
