Leggy, luscious and absolutely lovely to chat with, Bollywood’s hottest import, Nargis Fakhri takes time out from her hectic schedule to chat with Team MissMalini. Here are her thoughts on fashion, beauty and fitness.
Team MM: Nargis, how do you use your experience as an international model to dress up for Bollywood events and promotions?
Nargis Fakhri: I think because I have worked in the fashion industry all over the world, my perception and idea of fashion is very different. I have had the privilege of being exposed to a variety of style and ideas. Its almost like being educated in a form of art. I’m also not afraid to experiment. I find it very hard to stick to one notion of style and fashion. I come from a culture where fashion and personal style is a reflection of one’s personality, moods etc. So I lay more stress on uniqueness as opposed to what’s trendy.
Team MM: How would you describe your personal style and how do you express it?
NF: I’m a moody dresser. I dress depending on how I feel. If you peeked into my closet, you would probably describe my style as more relaxed. At this moment in my life, if I’m not working, I prefer to chill in sweats and a t-shirt with some cool kicks.
Team MM: What is your take on the Indian fashion scene and which Indian designers do you love to wear?
NF: I think there is a huge Western influence on Indian fashion but the industry is really coming into its own. Each designer is bringing an edge and an Indianness to their designs even when its Western. Look at Kanika Saluja, Nupur Kanoi, Masaba, Anamika Khanna – they represent the new ideas of Indian fashion and they have managed to make an Indian outfit young and cool.
It’s not just about sarees and lehengas anymore that we look in awe at our mothers and grandmothers wearing. I think people are now willing to take more risks. I see how street style has transformed and some looks, put together, are truly inspiring. Fashion has finally become a means of individual expression and not just about the herd mentality (while you still might have a few of those). I love how Indian designers focus on details and fabrics. In the West, it’s a lot about the cut and silhouette. Here the craftsmanship is so rich, extensive and beautiful. I am a big fan of Sabyasachi. He has a regal and vintage elegance to his clothes. I think Manish Malhotra is doing some fantastic work right now, his clothes are beautiful. I am also a big fan of Ritu Kumar and Anamika Khanna.
Team MM: How do you maintain your figure and what is your exercise/workout routine?
NF: When I’m in Mumbai, I try to focus on what I eat and as for exercise, it would be my home Zumba DVD and yoga. But when abroad, I love to play tennis, volleyball and go bike riding and I do a lot of walking and hiking! I’m constantly trying to mix it up. That way it doesn’t get monotonous.
Team MM: Share with us five beauty tips which you practice everyday.
NF: My first beauty tip is to recite my positive affirmations in the morning – my prayer of thanks for all I have. I am a happy, positive person. It may sound corny but see the difference it will make to you.
In terms of products, I use regular face wash and a witch hazel toner and then light face cream (La mar gel face cream). I am constantly hydrating. I have some Vitamin C and slices of lemon in my water bottle. I am almost obsessive about staying away from make up and hair products when I’m not shooting.
Team MM: What diet do you follow to keep slim and trim?
NF: Diet? Hahaha! I have to laugh because once again I have to say I’m a moody eater. So, I eat what I want when I want but I actually know my body and enjoy eating more veggies and fruits than anything else. I can feel the difference when I eat meat or carbs like white bread or rice. So I make sure I pay attention to my body. Like right this minute, I’m on my fifth day of juicing, that’s a week long detox diet where I have only juices. And to tell you the truth, I feel amazing!