Sanjay Leela Bhansali once again collaborated with Rimple and Harpreet Narula, the designer duo behind 'Heeramandi's outfits. The two revealed details about the two-year creation process.
Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s (SLB) name is synonymous with elaborate sets, period dramas, and poetic aesthetics. Over the years, the filmmaker has directed some of the most visually appealing and gripping stories, like Devdas, Saawariya, Goliyon Ki Rasleela Ram-Leela, Bajirao Mastani, and more. At present, he is gearing up for the release of his Netflix debut web series, Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar. The first look of the series, which was released earlier this year, gave audiences an idea of the grandeur of the upcoming SLB project. While the elaborate sets surely took our breaths away, the opulent outfits of the series' cast stole the show.
The Indian designer duo, Rimple and Harpreet Narula, who previously collaborated with SLB for his 2018 film, Padmaavat, have once again joined hands with him for Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar. Recently, in an interview with Lifestyle Asia India, the two shared details about the creation of the outfits for SLB’s series. They have made over 300 breathtakingly beautiful outfits in a span of two years. Talking more about the vision behind these outfits, the duo shared:
“Our goal was to capture the richness and authenticity of the period setting in Heeramandi, while also portraying the diverse personalities and stories of the characters. Since the series is set in the pre-partition era of India, we found inspiration in historical references and the traditional attire of courtesans and aristocrats from that era. Moreover, our costumes not only served as visual adornments but also played a vital role as storytelling devices, conveying the societal norms, power dynamics, and personal journeys of the characters.”
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Further, the two designers revealed that they wanted to represent the time period in a way that matched the series' mood board. Rimple and Harpreet even conducted thorough research through historical archives to find the right textiles and motifs for SLB’s desired aesthetic. The two designers even blended Indian textiles with European prints to reflect the prevalence of cultural exchange during the 1940s.
As per them, Heeramandi’s cast’s outfits include voluminous skirts, fitted bodices, flowing draperies, and structured jackets to reflect the social status and personal styles of each character. Rimple and Harpreet also took inspiration from their familial history in Gujranwala and Punjab and mentioned:
“Our design ethos is deeply rooted in our cultural heritage and personal experiences, particularly our connection to Punjab and our family’s history in Gujranwala. Growing up surrounded by the stories and anecdotes of that time, shared by our grandmothers and aunts, has deeply influenced our creative vision. While we may not be able to physically visit that era, these narratives provide us with a unique opportunity to interpret and reimagine the past in our artistic way.”
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Moreover, when they were asked about the bridal trend that can be expected after the release of Heeramandi, the two designers said that brides will be influenced to add more vintage elements in their outfits. Rimple and Harpreet added that brides can opt for richer colour palettes, including regal purples, emerald greens, and sapphire blues. Furthermore, the duo said that upcoming brides might also include a fusion of Indian textiles with European prints to create unique and personalized bridal looks.
In the same interview, the designer duo was asked to reveal their favourite member of Heeramandi’s cast. While praising the individuality of the six female leads, Rimple and Harpreet chose Manisha Koirala. They said that it was special to work with the yesteryear’s acclaimed actress. They said:
“However, working with Manisha Koirala was particularly special. Her elegance is truly timeless, and the depth of her involvement in her role was inspiring. That being said, every actor, from Aditi Rao Hydari’s innate grace to Sharmin’s vulnerability, Sonakshi’s vibrant energy, Richa’s commanding presence, and Sanjeeda’s warmth, brought their own unique qualities to their characters, making the experience of dressing the cast of “Heeramandi” incredibly rewarding and memorable.”
Share your thoughts on the opulent costumes of the cast of Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar.
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