Salman Khan is not just a Bollywood superstar; he is a cultural phenomenon whose influence extends far beyond the silver screen. For decades, his distinct personal style and on-screen looks have sparked nationwide trends, turning simple accessories and hairstyles into iconic symbols of Indian pop culture. His unique ability to blend casual cool with mass appeal has made him an unintentional yet powerful fashion trendsetter.
On-Screen Style That Became a National Craze
Salman Khan's film characters have often served as a blueprint for youth fashion across India. In his debut blockbuster Maine Pyar Kiya, the simple cap he wore ignited a massive trend, becoming a must-have accessory for young fans. Similarly, the leather jackets he sported in the early 1990s cemented his image as the ultimate style icon of the era, with markets flooded with replicas.
However, it was his role in Tere Naam that created one of his most unforgettable style statements. His long, centre-parted hairstyle from the film became a major talking point, especially among young men in small towns and colleges. This specific look is still remembered as one of the most popular and widely copied hairstyles in Bollywood history.
The Birth of Chulbul Pandey's Signature Swagger
The character of Chulbul Pandey in the Dabangg franchise introduced two legendary style elements. First, the cool aviator sunglasses, worn with an effortless swagger on the back of his head, became an instant style statement. Second, the iconic belt-adjusting dance move transcended the film to become a cultural craze. This move was copied everywhere, from wedding dances to street performances, becoming synonymous with the character's fearless and cool attitude.
The Personal Accessory That Became a Legend
Perhaps Salman Khan's most personal and enduring style signature is his turquoise stone bracelet. He began wearing this accessory in the early 1990s and has been rarely seen without it since, whether on-screen, at public events, or in his daily life. This consistency has turned the bracelet into one of the most replicated Bollywood accessories of all time. It is widely sold across the country and worn by countless fans as a tribute to their favourite star, proving how a personal item can become a powerful symbol of fandom.
Off-screen, his preference for casual Being Human T-shirts has further promoted his philanthropic brand while setting a trend for comfortable, message-driven fashion.
A Lasting Legacy in Fashion and Pop Culture
Salman Khan's impact on style is unique because it blends reel and real life seamlessly. His trends were never about high fashion but about relatable, aspirational coolness that resonated with the common man. From the leather jacket of a romantic hero to the sunglasses of a fearless cop, and from a dramatic hairstyle to a simple stone bracelet, his choices have repeatedly captured the public's imagination. These elements have cemented his status not just as a superstar, but as a true trendsetter whose fashion legacy continues to influence Bollywood style and Indian youth culture to this day.
