Bollywood influence on clothing selection of Indian consumers

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of Indian (Bollywood) movie engagement on fashion involvement and purchase behavior of Indian consumers who reside in India. Specifically, the study examined the influence of Bollywood movies on fashion purchases and personal appearance of Indian consumers. Survey data collected from 1,058 Indian adults via a convenience sample in a major city using the mall intercept technique found that stronger Bollywood engagement was significantly related to fashion involvement generally. More specifically, Bollywood engagement was found to influence clothing selection, clothing purchase, and hairstyles. The effect was stronger for male participants. In the crowded space for customer attention, findings from this study indicate that Bollywood movies can be a strong promotional vehicle to reach consumers beyond overt brand placement. The participants in this study found clothing style inspiration on the big screen as well as a way to satisfy cultural pressure to adhere to traditional dress while adopting the appearance and implied persona of a Western-influenced lifestyle.