Styling Legendary Figures and Iconic Personalities
When I work with legends, it is about honoring their unique history while giving it a fresh, modern sensibility. Every look is a conversation between the past and the present.
The legendary Zeenat Aman styled for 'The Royals' on Netflix. This look features a full length printed jacket by Anita Dongre, paired with layers of magnificent Polki and pearl necklaces for a truly regal effect.
A behind the scenes video from my styling session with Zeenat Aman. It shows the process of layering the exquisite jewelry and perfecting the final look for her shoot.
The cast of 'The Royals' for a Netflix event, with Zeenat Aman seated in the center wearing the full look I styled. It’s always a collaborative effort to create a cohesive group aesthetic.
Behind the scenes of the Mia by Tanishq campaign, where I designed a custom disco inspired dress for Zeenat Aman. Seeing her dance in our creation was a career defining moment.
A quiet moment in the vanity room. Styling Zeenat Aman for the disco themed campaign involved creating a look that was both glamorous and true to her iconic 70s persona.
The stunning Sushmita Sen in a head to toe powder blue ensemble. I styled her in this elegant pantsuit with a matching top and choker for a look that is both powerful and graceful.
A different angle of Sushmita Sen's deconstructed blazer look. The off shoulder detail adds a contemporary twist to the classic pantsuit, showcasing my love for unconventional styling.
About this collection
Styling icons like Zeenat Aman or Sushmita Sen is not just about picking clothes, it is an intense collaboration. We spend hours on mood boards and multiple fittings to ensure the final look respects their legacy while feeling completely fresh for today's cameras. Whether it is a custom piece or a reimagined classic, the goal is to ensure they feel comfortable and powerful before they step out on the red carpet or in front of the lens.
When you are dressing someone who has already defined their own style for decades, you cannot just throw a trend at them. My approach to celebrity styling is deeply rooted in the story we want to tell for that specific project. For instance, when I styled Zeenat Aman for a Netflix appearance, the focus was on elegance and regality, pulling in specific textures and layered jewelry that felt timeless yet sharp.
My process for these high-stakes projects involves:
- Deep Research: I look at archival references and the person's signature style to understand what feels authentic to them.
- Customization: Sometimes, ready-to-wear just does not fit the vision. For campaigns, I often collaborate with designers to create custom garments from scratch, ensuring the silhouette is perfect for the talent.
- Logistics & Execution: From managing heavy sourcing from niche labels and rental houses to ensuring continuity on set, I handle the chaos so the talent can focus on their craft.
Whether it is creating a custom sherwani for Jackie Shroff in a music video or styling a modern pantsuit for Sushmita Sen, I focus on the 'just right' feeling. It is about balancing the technical side of fashion, like garment draping and accessory coordination, with the human side of making sure the person in the mirror recognizes themselves. If you are looking for someone to help you channel your own iconic style, we start by looking at what makes you feel the most like yourself, then we build around that.
Kayal
I am Kayal, a stylist who thrives on the mix of chaos and creativity. I do not just dress people; I help them tell their story through fashion, whether they are on a global stage or a quiet set.
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