Oscar-night beauty may fade, but the most compelling style moments have a way of lingering—and this year, all eyes are still on international fashion model and philanthropist Pritika Swarup. Making the rounds at the Elton John AIDS Foundation Academy Awards Viewing Party and The Party by Guy Oseary, the Prakti Beauty founder delivered not one, but two fashion statements, each telling a distinct, deeply personal story.
Her look, created in collaboration with Swadesh x Manish Malhotra, paid homage to India’s rich artisanal heritage, weaving tradition, texture and craftsmanship into a global spotlight moment. She also stepped out in a bold, sculptural couture by Stéphane Rolland, embracing a more modern, high-fashion edge, complemented by the striking Swadesh emerald zipper necklace.
Ahead, she shares the inspiration behind each look.
Tradition, Reimagined
Dress: Swadesh x Manish Malhotra | Jewels: Swadesh
“My first look was a custom sculptural gown designed in collaboration with Swadesh and Manish Malhotra, and it celebrates Indian craftsmanship at its highest level. It’s made from handloom Maheshwari tissue silk, woven in gold for more than 400 hours by master artisan Aasif Ansari and finished with intricate zardozi embroidery, stones and metalwork.
It’s especially meaningful to me because it spotlights the richness of Indian textiles and the incredible artisans who keep these traditions alive. Wearing it tonight feels like a love letter to my heritage, and it’s a personal mission of mine to help bring that craftsmanship onto a global stage like this.
Dress: Stéphane Rolland | Jewels: Swadesh
For another look from the night, I wore Stéphane Rolland, known for his dramatic couture silhouettes. The black gown features a plunging neckline, framed by oversized chain-like detailing that gives it a powerful, modern edge. It feels very sleek and architectural, and I love how the dress’s bold structure contrasts with the elegance of the diamond-and-emerald zipper necklace from Swadesh.
I loved the idea of wearing two very different looks—one that celebrates heritage and craftsmanship, and another that feels bold, modern and architectural. Together, they show two sides of fashion that really inspire me.”
Personal Mission
“It means so much to me on a personal level. I grew up surrounded by the richness of Indian craftsmanship, the textiles, the handwork, the attention to detail, so being able to bring that onto a global stage like the Oscars feels full circle.
For me, it’s about honoring the artisans behind it and showing that Indian fashion can be reimagined in a way that feels modern and a major part of today’s global fashion conversation.
There’s so much intention, time and artistry that goes into these creations, and I feel a real sense of responsibility and pride in carrying that story forward. The night felt like more than a red-carpet moment—it’s a cultural moment. One where Indian craftsmanship is being seen, celebrated and positioned exactly where it belongs: at the center of global fashion.”
Inspiration Spotlight
“The glam was all about polished simplicity with a soft, luminous finish. For hair, we started with a fresh cut to clean up the ends and give it that really sleek, healthy finish. We added a soft bevel to give it movement and bounce while still feeling controlled and elegant. The deep side part follows my natural parting, which keeps it effortless, and we kept everything super smooth and tucked to let the dress’s neckline and detailing really shine.
For makeup, the focus was radiant skin and softly sculpted features. We went with a warm, bronzed base and subtle contour to enhance dimension, paired with a soft smoky liner and slightly lifted outer eye to create that elongated, sultry effect. The lashes are defined but not heavy, and the lip is a neutral, satin tone that ties everything together without competing.
Overall, the idea was glow over glam—clean, sculpted and quietly powerful, so the beauty complements the look rather than taking away from it.”
Mood Board
“There’s definitely always a plan [for a night like this], but we always leave room for intuition. My team and I start with the gown and build out a visual direction—references, textures, tones—so everything feels cohesive and intentional.
My stylist, Jason Rembert, really has such an incredible eye and plays a big role in shaping that vision and directing the team so everything comes together seamlessly. I also love giving my glam team space to bring their creativity to it—my hairstylist, Mashal Afzalzada, and makeup artist, Tori McConkey, always add their own perspective and ideas, which makes the final look feel even more special and collaborative.
Then on the day, once I’m actually in the dress and we see the full look come to life, we make small adjustments—whether it’s softening the hair, shifting the makeup, or refining the jewelry—so it feels fully aligned. I like to have a clear direction going in, but I also really trust my team and leave space for it to evolve in the moment.”
Glam Prep
“My approach to great glam really starts with healthy, nourished skin. My routine focuses on balance and deep hydration—especially in the days leading up to a big event like the Oscars.
The night before, I always double mask. I start with Prakti’s PaviPure Detox Mask, which helps draw out impurities, refine pores and clarify the skin so everything feels really clean and fresh. Then I follow it with the MahaMask Moisture Treatment, which deeply hydrates and replenishes the skin. It’s the perfect reset for my skin before a big event.
The morning of the event, I always rely on Prakti’s PritiPolish Instant Glow Exfoliator. I have sensitive skin, so I love that it gently exfoliates while still brightening and smoothing the skin to bring out that natural radiance. Exfoliation is such an important step before makeup because it removes buildup and allows your skin care to absorb more deeply, which creates that polished, luminous base where makeup just sits beautifully on the skin. Then, I layer hydration with my holy grail hydrating duo: SundaSkin Essential Hydrating Serum and SapnaSoft Essential Hydrating Moisturizer to really flood the skin with moisture and create that plump, lit-from-within glow!”
Good Vibes
“Our room is always such a fun energy! It sets the tone for the whole day. It was so beautiful and sunny in LA, so we had the balcony doors open during glam, which made everything feel light, fresh and relaxed.
We kept things really nourishing with green juices, salads, fresh fruit and herbal tea for the team. Music-wise, we were blasting a mix of our current favorites—everything from chill R&B and Bollywood hits to more upbeat pop—so we were vibing the whole time.
And then right before leaving, we all had a shot of Clase Azul tequila together to celebrate the moment, which was so fun and special. I’m really big on creating a space with good energy before going into something like this; I want everyone to feel so happy and excited.”
