Veteran actor Zeenat Aman has never been one to shy away from sharing her honest opinions, and her latest Instagram post is a testament to that. In a recent update, Aman candidly expressed her views on the current state of fashion, labeling many contemporary designer outfits as ‘unwearable’. Her post reflects a deep-seated appreciation for the past and a touch of nostalgia for the elegance of bygone eras.
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In her Instagram caption, Aman reminisces about her collaboration with the legendary costume designer Bhanu Athaiya, India’s first Academy Award winner. She praised Athaiya’s genius, noting that the designer crafted costumes for over 15 of Aman’s films, including the iconic Satyam Shivam Sundaram. “She was prolific and meticulous,” Aman writes. “Soon after our first partnership had a mannequin made to my measurements. It would stand in her studio, and on this inanimate bust she would actualise the fantastical ideas that appeared in her mind.”
Aman’s admiration for Athaiya’s work was palpable as she described how the designer’s creations were both comfortable and sensual. This stands in stark contrast to her current views on contemporary fashion. Aman revealed that, despite being a prominent figure in high fashion, she prefers casual attire and finds many modern designer outfits impractical. She even shared a humorous anecdote about a wealthy friend who would gift her haute couture, only to have it languish in her wardrobe, alongside her cherished heirloom sarees.
“It’s an unfortunate fate shared by my most prized heirlooms,” she said. “My mother’s exquisite sarees, the most meaningful clothing I own, also languish in the depths of my closet. Perhaps one day I will have the wherewithal to wear them or repurpose them into new outfits more suitable to my taste.”
Aside from her candid fashion critique, Aman is also making headlines for her upcoming projects. She will soon be seen in Bun Tikki, a film directed by Faraaz Arif Ansari and co-starring Shabana Azmi. Additionally, she is set to join the cast of Netflix’s The Royals, featuring Ishan Khatter, Bhumi Pednekar, and Nora Fatehi.
As Aman prepares to return to the screen, her reflections on fashion and legacy offer a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of true craftsmanship and personal taste.