Every time one sees her on-screen or off-screen, for that matter, one cannot help but fall more and more in love with Aditi Rao Hydari because of her unique appeal. The aura that she has and the way she presents herself are beyond compare. Apart from all the other aspects, one can just not stop adoring the actress for her subtle and elegant fashion sense, keeping it effortless and comfy. Often referred to as the ‘Royal Princess’, the diva recently glammed up the ramp at the Blenders Pride Glassware Fashion NXT Festival, walking for much-celebrated Varun Bahl. The Pioneer got the chance to connect with the star on an exclusive note as we discussed her fashion for a quick chat.
EXCERPTS FROM THE INTERVIEW
Tejal Sinha
How does the dress you wore as a showstopper represent your fashion?
My attire at the Blenders Pride Glassware Fashion NXT Festival is from Varun Bahl’s latest collection called Wanderlust. So, when you label a collection ‘Wanderlust’, you’re expected to get something very beautiful with intricate details yet with a relaxed vibe. I think in my everyday dressing, people think I wake up in ‘ghararas’ and ‘ghaghras’; I dress quite chill; I am in really baggy jeans; and I just wear a sweater or a sweatshirt and sneakers all the time. For the first time, I’m wearing ripped jeans on the ramp. That’s what I liked about his collection; it’s very true to the way I dress, which is mixing it up.
How do you always make sure to keep up with your fashion game?
II don’t think I keep up with my fashion game; I don’t even know what is in trend and what is not. If I like something, I wear it.
What about this format excites you the most?
This is India’s first fashion festival, taking the glamorous universe of fashion and lifestyle experiences to wider audiences in newer cities. It is an exciting new fashion platform that is redefining fashion experiences beyond the runway for young Indians. It is bringing together a host of stellar high-style experiences across luxury fashion, upbeat music performances, and immersive pop-ups curated by some of India’s coolest lifestyle brands.
How would you describe your fashion statement?
I will describe my fashion statement as effortless.
How would you describe the evolution of your relationship with fashion throughout the years?
When I first came into the industry in 2011, it was like you don’t know anything, so you want to be in a certain way, so I used to not want to wear any makeup or heels. But during that period, like the first 3–4 years, I felt pressure to be what is conventionally glamorous. People used to put lashes on me and make me wear heels to look glamorous. But then, at some point, a lot of people nurtured me and took me under their wing. That’s when I got that confidence—it was from those friendships, whether it’s with makeup artists, designers, or stylists. Sabyasachi has influenced me hugely in owning tradition because that’s what I grew up with. I grew up with tradition and wanted to be proud of it and be able to own it. I really learned a lot from Sanjay Sir and Manish Sir. So, it’s the people who come into your life, and I really value them a lot, and I credit whatever it is that I’ve learned. They might think I’ve learned nothing, but I think I have, and I keep learning every day. I really credit it to them and to the fact that I am a curious child and I watch, learn, and listen, and I do enjoy it. Today, I don’t feel the pressure or burden of fashion or being a particular way. I feel happier to be authentic and to own what it is that I come with, which is my unique self. I’m happy without makeup and heels. I’m happy in my torn jeans and a woven saree.
As fashion continues to evolve and undergo changes over time, has this transformation affected your focus within the realm of fashion?
I just don’t feel the pressure from it anymore. I wear what I like. I make choices instinctively. I own my strengths and am aware of my weaknesses, but I also own those because they’re natural; I’m human. And I am always ready, and I watch and appreciate things. Basically, authenticity is something that you may grow into.
What’s the one apparel you’d never find in your closet?
Anything that is low-waist. I don’t like showing my naval in clothes, even in sarees.
Which style icons do you find inspiring?
Audrey Hepburn, always and forever; then Rekha Ji—love them; I love Jennifer Lawrence. I find her very chill.
Could you describe your style ritual?
I just make sure that I have a team around me that loves me, and then I don’t need to look in the mirror because they take care of me. I like to have my people around because I’m very close to my team, and I really depend on them because I know that they’ll do their best.
What motivates you to keep moving forward?
I love what I do. I love creating, and I love collaborating with people who push me. It’s just good energy; every time I feel good, I’m game to do whatever. I’m also generally naturally an enthu cutlet.
What is the one fashion item you cannot do without?
I really need my sneakers; even when I’m walking on the ramp and I’m being forced to wear heels, my sneakers are on the side, and when nobody is looking, I change. So, my sneakers are not a fashion thing, but I can’t do without my brow kit. If I don’t have it, I might have a meltdown. That’s the only thing I’m really dependent on, and I can go without makeup, but I need my brow kit.
What would you say about the beauty of the Indian salwar-suit that we mostly see you in?
I take a lot of pride in tradition. I love traditional clothes, and they’re so much a part of us, and they’re very authentic. For me, Sabhya has been very important in that journey, and my mother is very happy about it because when I first went to Bombay, she was like, What are you wearing? Today she is damn happy about my clothes and everything.
clothes and everything.