Costume Recycling Unveiled
Karan Johar, a celebrated figure in Indian cinema fashion, shared insights into the lifecycle of costumes post-filming. He explained that sarees and other
attire from his productions are meticulously stored in a 'godown' and are frequently repurposed for subsequent movies. This practice ensures that the extensive wardrobe built for films isn't left idle, but instead contributes to the visual fabric of new stories. Johar highlighted that this recycling is so seamless that audiences often don't perceive the reuse. While significant, iconic pieces are kept separate to avoid immediate recognition, a vast majority of the clothing finds its way into other productions, worn by extras or integrated subtly into new scenes. This approach underscores a practical and sustainable aspect of filmmaking, maximizing the utility of valuable wardrobe assets.
Personal Closet as a Store
Beyond the studio's stored costumes, Karan Johar’s personal wardrobe has become an invaluable resource for film stylists, particularly his close friend Anaita Shroff Adajania. Johar described his closet as a 'crazy' and 'best shop in the world' from which Anaita frequently borrows. For the film 'Call Me Bae,' Anaita visited his home to select items for Ananya Panday's character. Johar expressed admiration for Anaita's styling genius, noting her ability to incorporate his clothes so effectively that it becomes imperceptible to the audience. Ananya, he mentioned, has worn numerous pieces from his collection, including bags, jackets, and sweatshirts, which Anaita masterfully weaves into the styling. This collaborative effort demonstrates how personal style and professional needs can converge in the creative world of filmmaking.
Shopping Compulsions and Lost Items
The conversation also touched upon the fate of borrowed items and Johar's well-known penchant for shopping. He admitted that not all items borrowed from his wardrobe are returned, with some simply getting lost in the process. However, he often doesn't even notice their absence, attributing this partly to his habit of purchasing items with tags still attached, indicating they haven't been worn yet. Johar candidly described his excessive shopping as a 'compulsive retail mania' and a 'disease' for which he believes he needs 'rehab.' This self-awareness adds a personal and relatable dimension to his role as a fashion influencer, revealing the human side behind the glamorous facade of his sartorial choices and those he shares.
