Character Costume Styling for TV and Film
From daily serial leads to movie song sequences, I craft wardrobes that build characters. Every stitch is designed to fit the scene, the story, and the actor's comfort on camera.
A glimpse into the world of 'Karna', a Zee Kannada serial I did the costume design for. Styling for a show involves creating a range of looks, from doctor's scrubs and protest scenes to casual wear, ensuring each outfit feels authentic to the character and the story.
Styling for the Colors Kannada show 'Bhargavi LLB' required a specific look. I designed the lawyer's robes and formal court attire, focusing on creating a professional and believable wardrobe for the main characters.
Here is a promo for the Colors Kannada serial 'Nooru Janmakoo'. I designed this dramatic red outfit for the character Kamini, played by Chandana Gowda. The look was meant to be powerful and supernatural, fitting the theme of the show.
This is a backup costume I created for a song sequence in the movie 'Kabzaa'. It's a custom-designed black blouse with intricate zardosi work. Even for backup options, I ensure the craftsmanship is top-notch.
Character styling for the serial 'Karna'. I worked on creating distinct looks for the actors, like the simple, elegant sweater for Kiran Raj's doctor character and a classic look for the veteran actor T.S. Nagabharana.
More scenes from 'Karna' on Zee Kannada. As a costume designer, my job is to ensure the clothes fit every scene, whether it's a casual day at home, a dramatic moment, or a formal awards ceremony within the show's storyline.
A closer look at the character wardrobes for 'Karna'. The embroidered shawl for the senior character adds a touch of elegance, while the simple sweater for the lead actor feels modern and relatable.
About this collection
When I work on a character's wardrobe, it is not just about making them look pretty. It is about storytelling through fabric. Whether it is doctor’s scrubs for 'Karna' or a lawyer’s robe for 'Bhargavi LLB', I test how the material catches light, how it holds up during long shoot days, and if it helps the actor get into character. You need costumes that survive twelve-hour shoots while looking perfect in every frame.
Film and TV styling is a different beast compared to regular fashion. I focus on movement-friendly tailoring. During my work for 'Nooru Janmakoo', I had to ensure the red two-piece outfit allowed for dance movements without causing wardrobe malfunctions. I use reinforced stitching in armholes and gussets, which you will not find in standard off-the-rack clothing. I also select materials treated with softeners so actors stay comfortable under hot studio lights.
If you are a director or producer, I am here to help build your cast's look from the ground up, whether you need a 'villain' style blazer or a soft, relatable lead character aesthetic. I handle the fittings, the sourcing, and the final touches so the team can focus on the camera work. My process involves collaborating closely with directors to ensure every outfit aligns with the character arc, from the initial sketch to the final day on set.
Arulaa by Rashmi Anoop Rao
Hi, I am Rashmi. I love getting inside a character's head to figure out what they would wear. It is all about teamwork with the director and the actors to make sure the look feels real, not just like a costume.
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