Zeenat Aman says she is a casual dresser and finds most designer outfits unwearable, praises Bhanu Athaiya's work

Zeenat Aman, a name that has been synonymous with bold fashion choices and an iconic presence in Indian cinema, recently opened up about her thoughts on contemporary designer outfits and her fondness for casual dressing. Known for her work in movies like Satyam Shivam Sundaram and her contributions to fashion and cinema during her career, Zeenat's reflection on her style choices and her long-standing relationship with the legendary costume designer Bhanu Athaiya has drawn attention.

Zeenat’s take on high fashion is refreshingly candid. Despite her reputation as a trendsetter who has graced some of the most iconic looks in Indian cinema, she has revealed that she finds many contemporary designer outfits to be "unwearable." In an Instagram post, she shared her thoughts on the subject, wearing a sculpted 3D dress in an earthy tone and humorously commenting that she resembled a "Komondor dog breed," known for its distinctive, mop-like coat. This playful comparison highlights her grounded approach to fashion, even in the face of avant-garde designs.

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In the post, she admitted that despite her status as a high-fashion icon, she prefers a more casual style. “I am constantly tickled by my persona as a woman of high fashion,” she remarked, adding that those who know her well are aware that she is, in fact, quite a casual dresser. Zeenat further shared that many designer outfits, although stunning, are often impractical for daily wear. She said, "One who finds most designer outfits unwearable!" This revelation is both amusing and relatable to many who feel that high fashion, while beautiful, may not always be functional.

However, while Zeenat expressed her preference for comfort over couture, she also took the opportunity to reminisce about her cherished collaboration with Bhanu Athaiya, the first Indian to win an Academy Award for Best Costume Design for her work in Gandhi (1982). Athaiya, who designed Zeenat's costumes for over 15 films, including Satyam Shivam Sundaram was a significant figure in Zeenat's career, shaping many of the iconic looks that are still admired today. Zeenat fondly remembered Athaiya's meticulous nature and unmatched talent. “The very best in not just cinema, but also fashion,” she said, praising Athaiya’s ability to craft garments that were not only visually striking but also comfortable to wear.

In her tribute to the late designer, Zeenat recalled the care and precision that went into creating her outfits. She noted that Athaiya, after their first collaboration, had a mannequin custom-made to Zeenat’s exact measurements. This allowed Athaiya to craft outfits specifically tailored to her, with Zeenat only needing to attend fittings occasionally. This unique arrangement made the process convenient for the actor while ensuring that every garment fit her perfectly. “No other designer in my life has come close to creating outfits for me that were as comfortable as they were sensual,” Zeenat reflected.

Athaiya’s ability to strike the perfect balance between comfort and sensuality was unparalleled. Zeenat remarked that no other designer had managed to match this quality. While her glamorous image in films often portrayed her as a high-fashion icon, Zeenat confessed that she does not see herself as a fashionista. Instead, she finds joy in simpler, more casual outfits that reflect her personality off-screen. Her commentary provides an interesting juxtaposition to the polished and opulent image she has maintained in the public eye throughout her career.

Zeenat is all set to make a much-anticipated comeback with her role in The Royals alongside Ishaan Khatter and Bhumi Pednekar. This marks a new chapter in her career, as audiences eagerly await her return to the big screen. Additionally, she has added another project to her roster, a collaboration with renowned designer Manish Malhotra for a film titled Bun Tikki.
Zeenat’s reflections on fashion and her tribute to Bhanu Athaiya reveal the depth of her experience in the industry, as well as her nuanced understanding