Character & Costume Design: Storytelling Through Fashion
I don't just dress actors. I build characters from the ground up, ensuring every fabric, metal, and drape serves the story on screen.
A close-up of Kajol's 'Kali' inspired look, focusing on the incredibly detailed gold corset blouse that serves as modern armor.
This shot showcases the stacked gold bangles and the loose, fluid drape of the black saree, designed to feel wild and free.
A full-length power pose in the custom Torani saree, capturing the fierce and divine feminine energy we aimed for.
The intensity in this portrait, combined with the turquoise bindi, perfectly channels the fearless spirit of Goddess Kali.
Another powerful close-up, highlighting the intricate beadwork and embroidery of the custom gold blouse.
A collage of Mrunal Thakur as 'Rabia', showing her infectious energy in a vibrant red floral outfit. The look is playful, bold, and full of life.
The full view of Rabia's red floral three-piece set, featuring a flowing jacket, bustier, and pants that allow for beautiful movement.
Behind the scenes of bringing 'Rabia' to life. Here, we are perfecting the fit of her corset dress and layering on mixed-metal accessories.
A video showing the final look for Rabia's trailer launch event, focusing on the hand harness and layered jewelry that define her character.
A makeup artist applies the finishing touches, completing the transformation into the character of Rabia for a major event.
About Character & Costume Design
Building a character's look starts with the script, not the closet. When I work with an actor on a film project, we focus on how the costume moves, how it catches light on set, and how it communicates the character's internal state—whether it is the raw intensity of Goddess Kali or the chaotic energy of a new role. We discuss these elements early to ensure the final look feels like a natural extension of the person on screen, rather than a costume that just sits on top.
My Approach to Costume Design
Designing for film and television is a technical challenge. It is about creating a visual language that audiences instantly understand. When I am developing a look, I look at the narrative arc first. If a character is meant to feel unhinged, the styling might involve mismatched metals or fluid, unpredictable drapes. If the character is powerful, we look at structured silhouettes that command attention.
The Process
- Script Analysis: I break down the script to understand the character’s background and current state.
- Moodboarding & Color Theory: I use Pantone-specific color palettes to ensure the character's colors pop against the set design and lighting.
- Source & Create: I blend high-end designer pieces with local, authentic finds to ensure the wardrobe feels grounded.
- Movement Tests: A costume needs to be functional. I test the outfit through movement to ensure the actor can perform without feeling restricted by the fabric.
Why Details Matter
On a busy set, the small things become the story. A specific bindi, a layered hand harness, or the way a saree is draped can define a character's mood for an entire scene. I manage this through constant collaboration with my team and the production crew. Whether we are in the middle of a Mumbai shoot or on location, my job is to ensure the actor feels the character before the camera even starts rolling. We focus on getting the fit perfect, managing the alterations, and coordinating with hair and makeup artists to ensure the entire aesthetic is cohesive. If you are looking for styling that digs deeper than the surface, let’s talk.
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