Flaunting a highly stylish Valentino gown at the iconic Paramount Studios lot for Vogue World: Hollywood 2025, Dakota Johnson was the centre of attention. The light pink gown with crystal floral appliqués and a sheer neck collar was a masterful combination of elegance and audacity.
Nonetheless, the Indian fashion master Manish Malhotra was the one who stole the show with his short but dynamic interaction with the Hollywood actress. Malhotra’s video of Johnson being stopped by Malhotra mid-walk, where a smile and handshake were exchanged, soon went viral on social media, representing the perfect mixture of Hollywood and Indian haute couture.
The Valentino Debut and Design Narrative
The glamour of Johnson’s appearance was not the only reason for her being the talk of the town, as it was also her stepping into the shoes of a Valentino ambassador. She donned the “Look 40” from Alessandro Michele’s Spring 2026 collection, which was a sign of a new creative chapter with the house.
The 1920s-inspired sequin seashell embroidery of her outfit was simultaneously a vintage reference and a confirmation of Johnson’s contemporary and fearless aura. The actress, adorned with minimalistic jewellery and carrying a sleek black clutch, definitely showed that she was not only a sophisticated lady but also a playful storyteller through her attire.
The East-Meets-West Fashion Dialogue
That very incident with Manish Malhotra, which went viral, turned out to be more than just a red-carpet walk – it was a dialogue between the two cultures. Malhotra, who is known for Bollywood glamour, and Johnson, who is on the Hollywood scene, felt like a very symbolic bridge between the two fashion worlds. Fans on social media were very supportive of the interaction, and they were calling the act global fashion unification.
Why This Matters for Indian Fashion and Global Style
Dakota’s presence and the viral exchange are indications of Indian fashion’s increasing power on the global scene. For Indian designers like Malhotra, sharing with international celebrities at events like Vogue World is a great opportunity. For Johnson, being associated with the new wave of Indian designers strengthens her global style narrative. The crossover marks the beginning of a series of deeper collaborations between the fashion worlds.
