Mar 02, 2026 1:23pm IST
‘Luxury Should Whisper, Not Scream’: Diana Penty On Fashion Weeks, Rekha’s Timeless Grace And The Ramp (EXCLUSIVE)
Penty’s fashion journey spans the full spectrum. Over the years, the Indian actor has attended some of the world’s most prestigious fashion weeks, walked international runways and built a strong global style presence. Having begun her career as a model before transitioning to acting, she brings a rare insider perspective to both the runway and the front row. Most recently, she attended Milan Fashion Week sporting the Di Bag Folio, paired with elegant slingback footwear, and wore Look 20 from the Spring Summer 2026 collection.
In an exclusive conversation with Variety India, she opens up about soaking in the quiet sophistication of Tod’s and the emotional craftsmanship of Missoni, the surreal memory of attending her first international show as a guest, the wardrobe pieces she secretly wanted to take home from her latest web series and the enduring influence of icons like Rekha and Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy on her personal style.
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What was it like attending the Tod’s and Missoni shows at Milan Fashion Week?
Tod’s was quiet confidence. The tailoring, the leather, the way everything moved — it didn’t scream, it whispered luxury. Missoni, on the other hand, was pure emotion. Traditional Italian craftsmanship at its finest. The mix of textures, colours, knitwear with leather — it was layered, rich and so thoughtfully done. I was genuinely in awe.
Do you remember the first international show you attended as a guest?
It’s bizarre that I have to think so hard about this, I’ve walked more shows than I’ve actually attended! I think my first international show as a guest was at New York Fashion Week. I remember being struck by how beautiful and fluid everything felt, the styling, the way the garments moved, the professionalism of the models. And ironically, what stayed with me most was this aching desire to be on that ramp myself. Once a model, always a model, I guess.
What has been your favourite on screen look so far?
There were so many looks in the web series I just did — Do You Wanna Partner — that I genuinely wanted to take home. My character, Anahita, was so close to me even with regard to her style. Her workwear was sharp but effortless, and her evening wear had this confident ease that I love.
Who are your ultimate style icons, both Indian and international?
Indian — I’ve always admired Rekha. There’s a timelessness to her. The way she wears a sari, the jewelry, the poise — it’s iconic without trying too hard.International — I would say Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy. Effortless minimalism. Clean lines. Nothing excessive. Her style still feels relevant decades later.
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