'I prefer not to get a day off'

Bollywood designer

Having worked in over 400 films, Neeta Lulla has become synonymous with Indian film fashion. She has the ability to fire up a canvas and create waves across runways.

By balancing modern designs with traditional elegance, the designer has over the years acquired an impressive list of clientele like Kangana Ranaut, Hema Malini, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Sridevi, Sushmita Sen, Priyanka Chopra, Shah Rukh Khan, Hrithik Roshan and Rajnikanth.

One of her latest projects is costume designing for ‘Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi’ starring Kangana Ranaut. The designer talks about her busy schedule and her working style to Anila Kurian.


How many things are you juggling right now?

A lot! I am working on my Winter festive and bridal collection. I’m also busy with the costume designing of ‘Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi’ which is directed by Krish.


Tell us about your festive collection.

We’ve recently introduced embroidery in my style, so you’ll see plenty of that this time. We’re also working with handlooms, so the collection will include textiles like Srikalahasti, Kanjeevaram, Banarasi, Paithani and Kalamkari.


Working on ‘Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi’ must be hectic...

It is quite hectic. It took about two months to decide on the outfits; we’re shooting in Hyderabad right now. So we’re setting up the entire look.


Who is your favourite celebrity to dress up?

I have worked with a lot of celebrities now. Of late, it’s more of the star’s personal stylist dressing them up as they have their own identity now. But if I had to pick someone from the past, it would have to be Rekha and Sridevi.


Your best work so far - which one are you particularly proud of?

I have enjoyed working on all my projects. I’m glad that my work has graduated and carved a niche. All of them have been given a different identity now. That’s what I’m truly proud of.


A style you hope never makes a come back.

Well, there’s nothing particular like that. But the one I don’t really care about is polka dots; I don’t have a specific reason for it.


On your laziest day, what do you do?

To be honest, I prefer not to get a day off. I love working; I always carry my designing pad and pencil wherever I go. However, if I’m not too busy, I like to paint.


A place you travel for inspiration.

I’m romantic in nature and I love the Renaissance period, so Rome.


If you could say something to the 16-year-old and 60-year-old, what would it be?

Experience makes you a professional and gives you an insight into things. Most importantly, study and understand the foundation and build on it by gaining practical knowledge. So study well, understand your limitations and aspirations, focus on your strength and with experience, your work will take you far.


What questions do you ask before you begin any design project?

For Bollywood projects, I usually have the script in hand. I read and understand the kind of canvas the director is looking at. It’s important to understand how he looks at the characters and the mood that needs to be projected. As for my bridal projects, I usually sit with the bride, understand her mindset, the kind of person she is and her background. Then I design something that is timeless – something she can wear more than once.