From Sridevi’s stunning white ensemble in “Chandni” to Aishwarya Rai’s rich Bengali saris in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s “Devdas” to Priyanka Chopra’s 12 different looks in Ashutosh Gowarikar’s “What’s Your Rashee?”, she has done it all. Fashion designer and costume stylist Neeta Lulla has been winning accolades in Bollywood and beyond over the last two decades. Excerpts from an interview:
So you have been extremely busy, lining up your collection for the Lakme Fashion Week? Tell us about your showstopper.
All my creations are showstoppers. It is important for me to design each piece as something I would wear myself. If in the process I realise that I would not wear it myself, I just scrap it. As a female designer, I am proud of my ensembles and am willing to wear each and every one of them.
How come your favourite muse Aishwarya Rai was missing on the ramp?
Sameera Reddy it was this time.
Any particular textures that you have used?
Alternating lace and sheer fabric to bring about a contrasting effect while sticking to the same colour tone. Then there are rippling silks, fine nets, unusual georgettes and crepes in emerald green, vermilion red and rani pink. I have tried to bring out the traditional charm of Indian culture through chantilly lace edgings, organza flowers, satin ribbon textures, tulle ruffle and layer accents.
You have several releases lined up too. “What’s Your Rashee?” sports 12 looks on Priyanka Chopra. Which one do you feel will be hot on the popularity circuit?
I think the Gemini look of tutu skirts and denim jackets or even any of the sparkling lehengas will be a rage this Navratri.
What’s your favourite look, from the different zodiacs?
Hmmm. Aquarius and Libra.
It is a tough call, juggling personal clients with fashion week collections and Bollywood commitments. What has been the biggest challenge so far?
There have been many, (laughs) but dressing Priyanka to sport the look of a 14-year-old and achieving the innocence of a girl child on her in a sari was extremely challenging.
What is that one vital quality a costume designer in Bollywood must possess to kiss success?
The uncanny ability to work on a look keeping in mind the characterisation, script requirement and the vision of the director. Add to that the final styling keeping the fashion statement in mind.
Any lucky mascot or charm you believe in including in every project you take on?
Not really. Though the general perception is that I must have a gold outfit in every film!
Where to get
Neeta Lulla retails through her stand-alone boutique at Shop 1, Ground floor, RNA Classic, Santacruz West, Mumbai.
Prices start at Rs. 10,000.
Call: 98331 57445
