Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Helen Mirren and Jane Fonda lead L’Oréal’s star-studded Paris runway

Highlights

• Aishwarya Rai Bachchan joins Hollywood legends Helen Mirren, Jane Fonda, and Gillian Anderson at L’Oréal Paris’ Paris Fashion Week showcase.
• The show celebrated sisterhood, age diversity, and global representation.
• Aishwarya, Bollywood’s global face, brought Indian elegance to one of fashion’s biggest stages.

Bollywood meets Hollywood on the runway

At Paris Fashion Week, L’Oréal Paris turned the spotlight on global icons in its annual public show, Le Défilé. Among the most celebrated appearances was Bollywood star Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, who joined Hollywood greats Helen Mirren, Jane Fonda, and Gillian Anderson on the catwalk.

Aishwarya, 51, has long been associated with L’Oréal as a global ambassador and remains one of the most recognisable Indian faces in international fashion and beauty. Her presence underscored L’Oréal’s message of celebrating women from every background and stage of life.

Helen Mirren and Jane Fonda bring swagger and grace

Eighty-year-old Helen Mirren drew thunderous applause as she walked in black trousers paired with a glittering high-neck top and long gloves. With her tousled blonde bob and bold cat-eye makeup, she brought what she likes to call “swagger” to the runway.

Jane Fonda, 87, strode confidently in a floor-length gold gown and block-heeled boots, with the empowering words “You’re Worth It” flashing behind her. Her decision to embrace her natural grey hair years ago has made her a symbol of authenticity in the beauty industry.

Gillian Anderson and Andie MacDowell add star power

British actress Gillian Anderson, 57, added a touch of sleek elegance in a silver ankle-length gown with a fitted bodice, her natural look drawing admiration from the crowd.

Andie MacDowell, 67, who has openly embraced her grey hair since lockdown, wore a satin fishtail skirt with a matching blazer and bold red lipstick. She has often spoken about how wearing her greys makes her feel both authentic and beautiful.

Global celebration of sisterhood

The show, staged outside the Hôtel de Ville de Paris and streamed worldwide, featured stars across generations and backgrounds. Alongside Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, the catwalk included names like Heidi Klum, Viola Davis, Eva Longoria, and Bethenny Frankel.

By reimagining the French national motto as “Liberty, Equality, Sisterhood”, L’Oréal Paris used the occasion to highlight women’s empowerment, age inclusivity, and the universal bond of sisterhood.

Why Aishwarya’s role matters

For Indian and South Asian audiences, Aishwarya’s presence wasn’t just another glamorous appearance. It was a reminder of how she has consistently carried Indian representation to the forefront of global beauty and fashion. Walking alongside Mirren and Fonda, she symbolised how Bollywood continues to hold its place on the international stage.