By Hindustan Times

Mumbai, April 17 -- In the '90s, any sari worn by Madhuri Dixit would instantly spawn a million copies. Young girls shopping on Mumbai's Linking Road or in Delhi's Karol Bagh wouldn't hesitate to ask for the Hum Aapke Hain Kaun sari. But Johar predicts the end of such blind imitation.

"Movies dictate street fashion and a certain section of people get very influenced," Johar says.

"But fashion in cinema is now more character-driven, the days of people copying movie looks are over." And if you think that being friends with most of Bollywood restrains his blunt criticism, Johar admits to dishing out advice even when he's not asked for any. "I'm very happy to offer my opinion because we're not a fashionable country. Nine out of ten people get it wrong, even on the red carpet. I cringe when I see stars with access to top brands still messing it up. We only get it right when we stick to Indian garments."

He contests the notion that Indian garments are less fashionable, saying, "Most actresses are too scared to show off the plunging neckline or skimpy back that you find on western gowns. I tell them to stick to a sari, it always looks stunning." His women

Gauri Khan gets his approval, and Sonam Kapoor's experimental style has him waiting for her public appearances. He's observed Kangana Ranaut from a distance, and admits that he's impressed with her "inherent sense of cool."

But if he's a fountain of fashion advice, then why hasn't he helped out best friend Kajol who always finds herself being rapped by the style police? "I've given up on Kajol. She is beyond fashion. Her sheer presence and persona allow her to carry off anything with pizzazz. But even she's been making an effort lately."