The queen maker

Mona

I believe in the power of women and if I can make it visible and audible in my designs, I would most certainly do it...

That’s the woman who has three glorious decades in the fashion industry; four national awards for costume design in Hindi film industry; who dressed the most beautiful woman in the world Aishwarya Rai Bachchan for her D-day; introduced pre-stitched sarees in early 2000s and upped the ante with fibre optics recently in her wedding gowns.

And, yes you would see Neeta Lulla dressed largely in her own creations for there are few who make clothes to suit her sensibility – traditional yet modern (read blouses with shorts, saree with jacket). She can carry a black jacket with a Kaanjeevaram saree and it’s the balancing of modern designs with traditional elegance that has earned her an impressive clientele across the globe!

After designing the costumes for Manikarnika, Neeta is gearing up for Panipat next. “Designing for films is a tightrope walk and has to be in sync with the demand of the script, aesthetics with director’s vision. If it’s for a period film, it becomes imperative to keep in touch with today’s times.”

Having designed for both Hollywood and Bollywood, ask her if there is any difference...“Not today. Be it fashion or films, we are all at same pace.”

Her non-fashion passions include painting and driving. Apart from enjoying a 15-day drive from Mumbai to Kochin and back, she has loved driving through California, Milan to Barcelona.

Quick takes

When not wearing self creations

I like Armani suits, shoes from Dolce & Gabbana and closer home Shahab Durazi designs.

I would love to dress Meryl Streep. She is one inspiring, iconic woman.

Style statement

I am not for trends. I advise people to keep classics in their wardrobe–that fitted shirt or Lucknawi kurta to pull out the charm.

Tip for fashion aspirants

Wear the look to know how it feels, comfort is the key.

Biggest fashion fear

With everyone and everything just a click away, the major fear is to have someone else show up carrying the same look.