Fashion, Films and Manish

You have been credited for giving Bollywood  a makeover– what’s the most fashionable Bollywood film till date?

While in days past it was movies like Amrapali with Vyjanthimala’s stunning clothes,   then (there was) Rangeela  that gave a new direction to Bollywood, Dil Chahta Hai too is one of my favourites. In recent times I think Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, and Cocktail to name a few.

When did you first realize that you wanted to plunge into the world of fashion and cinema?

Since my childhood days I have admired Indian Cinema, I used to love watching bollywood movies. It was the bent towards Bollywood that made me experiment in this field and there has been no turning back since.

Brides or Bollywood?

Both for me! Bollywood has always been a part of who I am and is where I take my inspiration from. Brides are the ones whom I dedicate my collection to, and not to forget that’s the work I am known for and is what has made me a brand name.

 
You introduced the concept of showstoppers. What are your thoughts on it? Who is your favourite showstopper?

My showstopper is are either someone who compliments my style or mainly people who I have worked with so I don’t really think I can name anyone in particular. They all have that mesmerizing Indian grace and charm. If I had to pick a few it would be Deepika Padukone, Priyanka Chopra and the Kapoor sisters.

Where do you think the Indian fashion industry is headed?

Indian fashion industry is falling back to its roots as we see our culture being brought back to the forefront. People have started appreciating the real beauty of Indian craftsmanship once again. In the next 3 years, Indian fashion industry will be much stronger and more interesting than it is right now.

Were you ever disappointed with the fashion scenario in Bollywood?

I think the 80’s was the most disappointing era for fashion in Bollywood

For you which has been your most satisfying assignment?

Rangeela! And not just because it was my first movie but also because it gave a new direction to fashion in Bollywood.

Can you tell us something about your latest collection?

My latest collection is the festive collection showcased at Lakme Fashion week called 'Reflections'.
The primary influences are from Rajasthan and Kutch - the mirror work, traditional colour blocking and a palette of deep green, dark beige, and mustard, which are all characteristic of these regions. The collection also features textured silks, youthful bright colours, saturated hues, and my signature thread-work and custom-created zari work from Kashmir. 'Reflections', therefore, marries the best of India's sartorial heritage, with youth, and sparkle. I have also created a trendsetting new silhouette - the ghagra pant, which is a fusion of the sharara and the classic pant. This new creation is a fun and very stylish alternative to the lehenga.

 
Who according to you is the most fashionable celebrity? And why?

Every actress today has a style of her own and the younger lot exude a lot of confidence which makes them stylish. If I had to pick a few names it would be Deepika Padukone and Sonam Kapoor. 

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