Something that’ll suit Arjun Kapoor will not suit Shahid Kapoor: Designer Kunal Rawal

If you are swooning over the litany of Ranbir Kapoor’s visually sumptuous looks in Jagga Jasoos, credit it due to his designer-stylist. Kunal Rawal has made RK carry the young, fresh, preppy with an alluring nerdy with ease. Kunal tells us about RK’s style, working with other actors and why he enjoys styling and designing equally. Read on...

How was it working with Ranbir?

As an actor when it comes to his film work, Ranbir submits to the director. He gives you the confidence to do what you want to do. Also, actors know their body type best and I always believe that keeping some perspective from the actor always helps.

You have styled Shahid Kapoor, Arjun Kapoor, Varun Dhawan and now Ranbir. Who is easiest to dress?

I actually worked with Ranbir in Besharam, too. None of them are difficult to work with. The younger crop of actors know that film-making is a group effort. They are all team players and understand the fact that the visual appeal of the film is important. Every movie is a different journey and a different process. You can’t compare one project to another project or draw parallels.

Do you invite suggestions?

A lot. I am always up for suggestions and perspective. They have their own take on the character. We all follow the director and add to his vision.

What are the things that you keep in mind while designing for each of these actors?

When it comes to movie, it’s all about building the characters. Their body type makes a big difference and hence influences the kind of fashion. Something that’ll suit an Arjun will not suit  Shahid, which makes it fun. All actors  have an ‘x’ factor to them, which even helps them pull off slightly crazier look. The key is not to be repetitive. Most importantly, if you’re having fun with clothes, it’s not difficult convincing the actors.

You have also styled Anil Kapoor in Mubarakan recently. Tell me about that.

He’s all about youth. In fact, he’s more of-the-moment than the younger crop. When you’re talking to him, you never feel that you’re talking to an older person. He’s a perfectionist. I lived in London and met a lot of personalities there. I have kept it very contemporary like how Punjabis in London are today, who are always up to speed with fashion.

What do you enjoy doing more — styling actors for films or red carpet?  

With your label, you have a certain aesthetic but films are a flight away from your aesthetic. Since I love fashion, it’s great to do both. I feel you should have something fun and exciting to say each time. Whether it’s red carpet or movies — their personal style comes into play.