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‘For me fashion is not just a job’

Indian designer Neeta Lulla who will showcase her collection in Dubai soon talks about her label

LONG LOCKS, twenty pounds off, Neeta Lulla looks like one of the models that walk her ramps. Yet behind this vision of loveliness is a woman who has emerged successful after a lot of trials and tribulations.

After showcasing her collection at the Finale of Dubai Fashion Week the designer is all set to take part in the eminent Chivas Regal showing of style in April.

Working effortlessly with shades, silhouettes and silken skeins; one can recall her effortless chic of creating ensembles for Bollywood -for over 19 years. The lilywhite traditional dress of Sridevi in Chandni, the shimmering simplicity of Aishwariya Rai in Taal, the rich blue sari that resonates the story of Devdas were all creations of this designer.

Recipent the National Award for Lamhe, she has several notable projects to her credit, including Jodha Akbar. With a diploma of design and over 300 movies to her credit, Neeta Lulla has decided to take on the challenge of mainstream design.

What’s the secret behind your success?

It’s probably my undying love for my work that serves as a motivation for me and my team. For me fashion is not just a job, it’s a passion. I don’t tire easily as my work is constantly stimulating. I am very detailed and dedicated and try and make things happen for my clients.

What was it like for a woman to cope between family and the fashion fraternity of India?

I started my design company after my marriage to a doctor. My children and my husband are extremely supportive of me. My daughter Nishka is also a designer and helps me with my work; my son Sidharath is a financial consultant and gives me sound advice on how to develop my work.

But life is always a balancing act, I work very close to home, my family comes first and I avoid any long trips, most of the time someone from my family accompanies me.

What is the difference between designing for reel and real?

Several factors need to be taken into consideration while designing a star in the film. The story, the comfort value of the artiste, whether a scene will be shot indoors or outdoors all is crucial in the designing stage. The attire should have appeal not only to the director and the artiste but also be in sync with the background and set.

Out of all the stars, who has been the biggest delight to design for?

Its been a pleasure designing for all the stars, each one is slightly different, Sridevi, Ashwariya and Juhi have been some of the closest to me, but I cannot pinpoint one artist whom I have not enjoyed designing for.

What next for the Neeta Lulla Label and for the designer herself?

I would definitely like to see my label in stores across the world; so liberally put, going international. I have done Rome and South Africa fashion week and had a great response. This has encouraged me to go forth and take this project forward also.