As an anchor, model, reality show star, singer and dancer, Shibani
Dandekar ‘virtually grew up on stage’, as her bio reads. Also a much-loved fashionista who is widely followed on Twitter and Instagram, Shibani brings her glamour quotient on field as one of the hosts of Sony MAX’s ‘Extraaa Innings T20’ for the ongoing Indian Premier League.
The chic presenter, whose style is a mix of Boho and androgynous, talks about dressing up for the IPL and why having sisters who are equally glamorous can be a good thing.
How has you sense of style evolved over the years?
Style is about need and what I feel comfortable in. Initially, I used to wear more of things that were in trend, but probably didn’t work for me. Over the years, I have started to wear outfits that suit me and which I know I can carry off well.
How different is dressing up for IPL, considering you have to look glamorous in a sporting event?
I think more than the glamour, it’s about breaking the certain kind of image people have about women in sports. I am trying to change that a little bit by being sporty, casual and just myself.
When you are a presenter, you are not playing a character in a movie; you are yourself. Being comfortable and being able to express yourself through your clothes are the two most important factors to consider.
I have a team of designers, particularly Deme by Gabriella and Chandni Sareen, who I work with. They’ve designed my look for the tournament. The aim is to make it more me, more fashionable and stadium-friendly. You cannot refrain from experimenting. People will like it, love it or hate it, but the idea is to take it forward.
Any reactions or compliments to what you have been wearing so far in the IPL?
I have not been monitoring the reactions, but I want to see what the reactions are this season because it’s more about me this time.
Do you use make-up to highlight your best assets?
My best assets are my shoulders, neck and my smile. None of them are areas you can really dress to show off.
With sisters who are as stylish as you — VJ/model Anusha Dandekar and singer Apeksha Dandekar — is there any sort of rivalry among the three of you?
Not really. We have our own style sensibility because of which we don’t share everything, but certain pieces we do. It does come in handy
Favourite designers.
Deme by Gabriella, Payal Singhal, Stella McCartney, Alexander McQueen, Vivienne Westwood, Sabyasachi’s latest collection and lots more.
Style tips.
The most important thing that I have discovered over the years is to know your body type and know what works for you well. Wear what you are comfortable in. Fashion is a form of expression, and you can express yourself through your clothes. It’s an art and it’s subjective. People are always going to say what they want to, but you’ve got to own it and be confident — it’s as simple as that.
