It was a hot summer in 1990 when the world was first introduced to the magic that is Manish Malhotra. From designing Juhi Chawla’s wardrobe in Swarg to becoming the go-to designer for Bollywood’s crème de la crème, Manish’s meteoric rise to the top is the stuff that fairytales are written about.
As the ace couturier clocks in his fiftieth birthday (while looking precisely half that number) and 26 years in the film industry, we sat him down to take a look back at his journey.
5 of the most iconic Manish Malhotra looks onscreen
It is important to style and design the look of an actor keeping in mind the character being played. I am delighted to have received such appreciation for my work and it is difficult for me to choose any particular look. However, the ones which come to my mind now are Urmila Matondkar in Rangeela, Kareena Kapoor Khan in Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham & Jab We Met, Kajol in Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayengey, Karishma Kapoor in Raja Hindustani and the recent look given to Anushka Sharma for Ae Dil Hai Mushkil.
4 of the biggest milestones of your career
There have been various milestones in my career of 26 years in the movie industry as a costume stylist and designer. From costume styling for Juhi Chawla in the movie Swarg to winning my first Filmfare Costume award for the film Rangeela. Today, I feel proud that my label Manish Malhotra has completed 11 successful years. Being the first designer to have opened the largest single brand couture store of 9000 sq.ft in Delhi was a moment of pride; the store completes 3 years this 2016. Manish Malhotra Label marked a turnover of over INR one Billion making it one of the first Indian luxury fashion house to achieve this milestone.
3 of your all-time favourite showstoppers
I have had all my dear friends from Bollywood walk the ramp for me and love all of them. It is difficult for me to share just 3 names as each one is special and made my show memorable. It is humbling to receive such support and appreciation for my work on and off the runway.
2 Hollywood beauties you would love to dress someday
I would love to dress Madonna and Meryl Streep someday! They are style icons who are individualistic and wear their personality best.
1 piece of advice you would give your younger self
To work even harder with discipline and determination while focusing on what you aspire.
We wouldn’t have thought it’d be possible for him to work harder still, but here’s toasting his incredible journey so far—and to another brilliant 26 years ahead.
