Making a splash at the Cannes Film Festival is no easy feat, especially when you’re not a Hollywood A-lister. But Indian entrepreneur and actress Parul Gulati managed to grab global attention with a move that was equal parts bold, bizarre, and business-savvy. Ditching traditional red carpet glamour, she walked into the spotlight wearing a strapless black gown made entirely of human hair—a visual ode to her hair extension brand, Nish Hair.
Netizens were quick to share their opinions many called it a “disastrous outfit fail” and “creepy.”
But let’s cut through the noise. Regardless of whether people loved or hated it, the world noticed. And for any entrepreneur, especially in the competitive world of fashion, that’s the goal.
Here are five key entrepreneurial lessons from Parul Gulati’s daring Cannes moment, and how you can apply them to get your fashion brand noticed on a global stage:
1. Turn Your Product Into the Message
Parul didn’t just wear a dress—she wore her business. The gown, made entirely of human hair, was more than fashion; it was a literal manifestation of her brand. As the founder of Nish Hair, which specialises in hair extensions, she used the red carpet as a living billboard.
Tip: If you’re in fashion, think beyond logos. Use the materials, textures, or themes of your brand to create pieces that tell your story—visually and instantly.
2. Disruption Gets Attention
Let’s be honest. A typical glamorous dress, no matter how beautiful, often gets lost in the sea of couture at Cannes. But a human hair dress? That made headlines. It sparked conversation across platforms and brought people straight to her brand.
Tip: Don’t be afraid to disrupt the norm. Whether it’s through unconventional designs, daring materials, or powerful symbolism—disruption invites curiosity.
3. Own the Narrative Before Others Do
Parul released information about her dress herself, explaining that it was a representation of her entrepreneurial journey. She worked with stylist Mohit Rai and designer Riddhi Bansal to bring her vision to life, making sure she controlled the message before the internet could twist it.
Tip: In today’s social media-driven world, explain your concept before the critics do. A bold move only works when backed by a strong, clear story that aligns with your brand.
4. Use Criticism as Currency
While much of the internet found the look unsettling, the virality worked in her favour. People rushed to Google “who is Parul Gulati?” and “Nish Hair.” In other words, every share, comment, and meme drove free publicity.
Tip: Controversy, when handled with confidence and clarity, can convert into brand awareness. Let critics talk—just make sure your brand links are ready to catch the traffic.
5. Strategic Partnerships Matter
Parul didn’t do it alone. She collaborated with industry professionals—celebrity stylist Mohit Rai and designer Riddhi Bansal—who knew how to execute a headline-grabbing look without compromising craftsmanship.
Tip: Align yourself with creatives who understand your vision. Whether it’s stylists, photographers, or influencers, partnerships can amplify your concept beyond your own network.
Final Thoughts: When Fashion Meets Fearlessness
Parul Gulati’s Cannes moment wasn’t about winning style awards—it was about owning the moment. For entrepreneurs trying to break through the noise of the fashion world, her human hair gown is a case study in how courage, creativity, and controversy can fuel brand recognition.
You don’t need to make a gown out of hair to stand out (please don’t if it’s not your thing), but you do need to be bold enough to wear your vision out loud.
In a world of silent logos and predictable fashion, dare to be unforgettable.a
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