Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan has added yet another global distinction to his name—one that celebrates not just his cinematic legacy but also his undeniable influence on the world of fashion. The New York Times recently unveiled its annual list of the 67 Most Stylish People of 2025, and SRK has secured a prominent spot, marking a moment of immense pride for India and its expanding fashion footprint on international red carpets.

This recognition, while significant on its own, becomes even more meaningful given that it follows Khan’s much-anticipated Met Gala debut, where the 60-year-old actor made a commanding entrance in a custom-designed look by Indian couturier Sabyasachi Mukherjee. With this, Shah Rukh Khan became the only Bollywood actor to feature in the New York Times’ style selection for 2025—an achievement that fans across the globe have celebrated as both deserved and overdue.

A Met Gala Moment That Captured Global Attention

For someone who has already spent more than three decades shaping the emotional landscape of Indian cinema, SRK’s appearance at the Met Gala felt like the next natural step in his ongoing evolution as a global cultural icon. His debut aligned with the event’s 2025 theme, “Tailored For You,” and Sabyasachi ensured that every stitch reflected finesse, individuality, and meticulous craftsmanship.

According to Mukherjee, the ensemble was centered around a floor-length elongated coat crafted from Tasmanian superfine wool, adorned with monogrammed Japanese horn buttons. The coat featured a hand-canvassed finish, a single-breasted structure, a peak collar, and wide lapels that balanced classic tailoring with modern minimalism. Underneath, Shah Rukh wore a crepe de chine silk shirt paired with superfine wool trousers, embodying understated luxury.

To complete the look, Sabyasachi added an exquisite pleated satin kamarbandh, layered accessories, and the standout piece of the night—a custom Bengal Tiger Head Cane, crafted in 18k gold and embellished with tourmalines, sapphires, old mine-cut diamonds, and brilliant-cut diamonds. These details elevated the outfit from fashionable to iconic.

But among all the elements, one accessory became the center of conversation: a crystal-studded pendant shaped like the letter ‘K’. Nestled among layered necklaces, the pendant added a personal touch, sparking widespread admiration and conversation across social media platforms. Many saw it as a subtle nod to the actor’s identity, his legacy, and perhaps even his family.

NYT on SRK: A Star Who Brings the Met Gala Into His Orbit

The New York Times Style section described Shah Rukh Khan with characteristic admiration:
“Known by his army of fans simply as SRK, Bollywood’s biggest star and one of the world’s most famous actors brought the Met Gala into its orbit as a first-time guest.”

It was a statement that encapsulated not just his celebrity status, but his ability to command attention effortlessly—simply by being present.

His appearance was not merely about fashion; it was a cultural moment. Indian designers, especially Sabyasachi, continued to push boundaries internationally, and SRK’s choice of couture further spotlighted India’s craftsmanship on the global fashion stage.

A Spot Among Icons: The 2025 ‘Most Stylish’ Line-up

The 2025 list curated by The New York Times features an eclectic mix of personalities who shaped conversations around style—across industries, genres, and even species. Sharing space with SRK are names such as:

• Sabrina Carpenter, pop sensation

• Doechii, rapper and genre-pushing performer

• A$AP Rocky, known for redefining male fashion

• Jennifer Lawrence, actor with an effortless style

• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, celebrated NBA style icon

• Walton Goggins, actor recognized for his striking looks

• Nicole Scherzinger, performer and fashion trendsetter

• Cole Escola, actor and comedian

• Noah Wyle, actor

• FLOTUS Melania Trump, recognized for her bold sartorial choices

• Carlos Alcaraz, tennis star

• Influencer Becca Bloom, social media fashion figure

• Girl group Katseye, rising global style influence

In a whimsical turn, the list also included entries that aren’t people at all but have nonetheless shaped modern aesthetics. Notably, Naomi Osaka’s Bedazzled Labubus, the wildly popular collectible toys, were also featured. According to NYT, their presence at events like the US Open—especially the glittering versions designed by artist Kerin Rose Gold—made them impossible to ignore.

For the NYT Style team, the criteria extended beyond clothes. As writer Madison Malone Kircher explained, style could be communicated through a gesture, a swagger, a defining presence, or even something as unexpected as the swirl of a smoothie. It could be serious or silly, quiet or flamboyant—what mattered was cultural impact.

A Global Icon Whose Influence Extends Beyond Fashion

Shah Rukh Khan’s entry into this list affirms what fans and critics have long known: he remains one of the most influential figures in global pop culture. At 60, SRK continues to reinvent himself—not by trying to stay relevant, but by embracing change while preserving the grace and humility that define him.

His Met Gala appearance resonated not just because of the outfit, but because of the man wearing it. He carried it with the unmistakable charisma and effortless confidence that have long made him a favorite of millions. This was not merely a red-carpet appearance—it was a reminder of how deeply his influence permeates beyond cinema.

Indian Representation on the Global Stage

SRK’s presence at an event as prominent as the Met Gala also signified a powerful moment for Indian representation in global fashion. Over the years, Indian designers such as Sabyasachi have gained significant influence across international platforms, but representation at the Met Gala—considered the pinnacle of fashion—remains limited.

With SRK’s debut, Indian artistry found itself placed squarely at the center of global discussions about style and craftsmanship. The ensemble highlighted not just the director-designer partnership but the evolution of India’s luxury fashion narrative on the world stage.

On the Work Front: SRK Prepares for ‘King’

Even as his Met Gala look continues to inspire write-ups, fan edits, and fashion think pieces, Shah Rukh Khan remains firmly focused on what he does best—cinema. His next project, King, has already sparked widespread anticipation. Directed by Siddharth Anand, the filmmaker behind the 2023 blockbuster Pathaan, the film brings together an exciting cast, including Suhana Khan, marking a milestone moment in father-daughter cinematic history, and Deepika Padukone, one of SRK’s most popular on-screen collaborators.

Produced by Red Chillies Entertainment and Marflix Pictures, King is already being touted as one of the most awaited films of the coming year. Fans are eager to see Shah Rukh Khan return to the screen, especially following his successful streak of films in recent years.

A Style Moment That Will Be Remembered

Shah Rukh Khan’s recognition by The New York Times as one of the Most Stylish People of 2025 is far more than a fashion accolade. It is a testament to his enduring impact, his evolving persona, and the way his presence continues to captivate the world across generations and industries.

His Met Gala debut proved that true style lies not in extravagant displays, but in authenticity, craftsmanship, and the confidence to carry one’s identity with pride. And that, SRK has always embodied effortlessly.

With global media celebrating his fashion moment and fans eagerly waiting for his upcoming film, Shah Rukh Khan stands today—just as he has for decades—as a symbol of elegance, influence, and timeless charisma.

With inputs from agencies

Image Source: Multiple agencies

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