DESIGNER PROFILE: Neeta Lulla

I promised to deliver more Neeta Lulla, and here she is. The designer is a personal favourite of mine, and I'm definitely going to visit her store in India to see about my bridal sari. She started off as an assistant choreographer in the 80's, working her way into designing outfits for film. She's done about 350 films now, and won a National Award for Sridevi's outfits in Lamhe; more recently she did the outfits for Aishwarya Rai's wedding, and the exquisite pieces seen in Jodhaa Akbar. Here's a short interview she did for The Asian Wedding Editor's Guide, revealing a bit about her personal routine and style.

• How would you describe your approach to bridal design? 

Holistic. I believe in the overall look that includes accessories, hair and makeup.

• Do you have any advice for brides who aren't sure about which look to go for? 

It's very important to go with a color that you really like and go for classic styles that are wearable and well cut. 

• Do you think India's approach to bridal wear has changed? 

Traditions have come down from time immemorial. The lehenga choli is a classic and always looked pretty although there may be a few changes in styling the bridal attire will always stay and not change.

• How would you describe your 2010 bridal collection? 

Contemporarisation of the bridal lehenga will happen, but rather than changing the entire outfit, it's colors and styling that will change most. 

• What is a typical day for you?

I start with a 6.30am walk, followed by a 7.30am swim. I start receiving and making calls at 9.30am, then organise my day and get down to work.  

• Sameera Reddy has modelled your bridal outfits before - are you planning to ask her to do more modelling? 

Yes, Sameera and I will be working together in the future. 

• What type of bride is likely to wear a Neeta Lulla creation? 

Contemporary, elegant, stylish and the one who wants exclusivity. 

Pictures from Neeta's latest collection

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