Costume designer, fashion stylist and couturier, Neeta Lulla is one of the oldest and most respected names in the film and fashion circuit. Her love for Indo-Western silhouettes is visible in everything she creates and all her garments exude the passion with which they are created. With four National Awards for Best Costume Design in her kitty, along with many others, Neeta certainly is a force to reckon with. Here, Neeta Lulla shares her perspective on what goes on in creating that perfect look on the ramp, her take on fashion weeks, and more…
What is the importance of hair and make-up in fashion?
Hair and makeup creates the complete look with your clothes. Just like a well fitted and well cut garment gives you comfort, thus creating ease of wear and confidence, which in turn makes you feel look good, thus look good. In the same way, appropriate makeup and a well cut and well turned out hair style gives you the same feel, thus enhancing your personal style statement.
What is the designer’s contribution in planning and creating a look for the ramp?
The designer visualises the entire portrayal or projection of the theme and philosophy with the right colours, silhouettes and cuts, keeping in mind the fashion trends. We create our own story to be able to reach out to the consumer in our own creative way, keeping the above in mind.
How hands on are you in the overall look on the ramp?
I am completely hands on — from the initial inception of the theme, philosophy, styling, sketching and fabrication — to being backstage during the show.
What is the inspiration behind your current line?
The philosophy of my garments is in the Western Fusion attire — be it bridal, couture, diffusion, prêt or Indo-Western wear — which forever changes in its theme through seasons. This season my inspiration is tropical colours, Aztec motifs and elegant linear silhouettes.
What is the most outrageous look you’ve created so far on the ramp or in the catalogue?
The most outrageous look I’ve ever created is for a film called Roop Ki Rani Choron Ka Raja, when I worked with Sridevi. I worked with feathers and embossed pieces of metal.
What is your take on fashion weeks?
Fashion Weeks create a lot of awareness and understanding of the designer’s concept and philosophy for the season, thus giving the consumer an insight on what to expect from the brand in terms of fashion statements.
Do you have any plans of making inroads into the beauty and wellness sector?
I am already working on Neeta Lulla Signature Homes. I am also currently working on bridal bed linen in association with Portico and in the process of many tie ups in the lifestyle segment.
