Dubai Bling's Farhana Bodi on Alia Bhatt's Cannes Debut: She has what it takes to build a legacy

Dubai Bling fame Farhana Bodi has owned the Cannes red carpet since 2017, and when she talks about the process, it’s clear that the glamour we see is only the final, polished product of countless hours of work. “What people see on the red carpet is the final few seconds of weeks, sometimes months of work. From selecting the right designer and concept to fittings, beauty prep, and handling logistics, it’s a full production. The goal is to make it all look effortless, but trust me, there’s a whole lot of effort behind that one perfect photo,” Farhana says.

And behind that picture-perfect moment are countless other stories—ones that the world never sees. There’s always a potential disaster lurking just beneath the surface, from wardrobe malfunctions to last-minute dress changes or makeup touch-ups in the car. But Farhana has learned to take it all in stride, seeing each challenge as part of the journey. “Oh, definitely. There have been wardrobe malfunctions, last-minute dress changes, makeup touch-ups in the car, things that would make anyone panic. But in those moments, you learn to stay calm and keep moving. It’s part of the experience, and those are the stories you laugh about later,” she shares with a knowing smile.

For someone who has made her mark on one of the world’s most iconic red carpets, Farhana’s fashion inspirations run deep, extending beyond just the fabric of a dress. She admires women who bring not only style but also authenticity to their looks—whether it’s the timeless elegance of Aishwarya Rai, the bold, modern vibes of Bella Hadid, or the effortlessly chic presence of Elsa Hosk. “I’ve always admired women who bring poise and personality to the red carpet. Aishwarya Rai’s elegance, Bella Hadid—I love everything about her—and I love Elsa Hosk’s style and vibe. They all bring something unique. I draw inspiration from anyone who walks with authenticity,” she explains. Farhana sees Cannes as a place where fashion and film coexist, each holding equal weight and power. “They go hand in hand. Cannes is one of the few places where film and fashion share the spotlight equally. The red carpet has become a powerful platform to express creativity and make a statement, so it’s no longer just about what’s on screen, but how you show up,” she reflects.

Of course, after setting some legendary looks over the years, there’s always the pressure to outdo yourself—something Farhana acknowledges with grace. “Yes, of course. There’s always a bit of pressure to bring something new, to evolve, and to keep things exciting. But I try not to let that take away from the joy of it. For me, it’s about feeling confident in what I’m wearing and being present in the moment,” she says, reminding us that fashion is as much about confidence as it is about clothes.

Behind every dazzling appearance at Cannes is a strategy—something Farhana knows all too well. “Preparation is key. Having a strong team, knowing your schedule, and staying calm behind the scenes makes a huge difference. But beyond that, showing up with grace, connecting with people, and staying true to yourself—that’s what really leaves a lasting impression,” she asserts. For those like Alia Bhatt who are making their first appearance, Farhana has simple but powerful advice: “Alia, just be yourself and let your aura do the talking. Cannes loves authenticity wrapped in elegance.” And for those wondering whether one appearance is enough to build a Cannes legacy, Farhana’s wisdom is clear: “One iconic appearance can open the door, but it’s consistency, vision, and presence that build a legacy—and Alia definitely has all three.”