A fashionista’s choice

Model and actress MUGDHA GODSE is all set for her Bollywood debut with acclaimed director Madhur Bhandarkar’s ‘Fashion’. PURNIMA GOSWAMI SHARMA speaks to her about fashion statements

Are you fashion conscious?
I wouldn’t say I’m fashion conscious. I pick comfort over style any day. I feel that how you carry off an outfit, along with accessories, makeup and hairstyle, makes an individual fashion statement. You shouldn’t follow fashion for the sake of it; the clothes you wear should reflect your true self and enhance your personality.

How would you describe your style statement?
I have a very bohemian style of dressing, a statement of my free spirit. I do have mood swings occasionally, and this is reflected in my style, which changes dramatically. At such times, I prefer a more elegant style of dressing. What is constant is a touch of ‘diva’ that I try and incorporate in every look. It could be an accessory or even a piece of jewellery. I believe that one striking piece can add a touch of glamour for an unforgettable look. I am also into accessories and love to pick up belts, shoes and jewellery. I am neither a fashion victim nor a pundit!
I love to wear jeans from Mango and Esprit and tees from Zara. I love Osho slippers, which I pick up from Pune; they define my boho style. I like to carry eco-friendly cotton jholas with Om designs. These I pick up from Goa. For more formal occasions, I like to carry bags by Nine West. In formal shoes and sandals, I prefer Jimmy Choo, Charles & Keith and Nine West. More than clothes and shoes, I love sunglasses. I have Hugo Boss, DKNY, Givenchy and Vogue in different styles and colours including black, blue, silver and even pink! My favourite is a pair by Tom Ford.

Do you feel that clothes and external appearances are important in today’s world?
As a first impression, clothes speak volumes about one’s personality. The way one dresses is as an interpretation of one’s inner self. The colours speak of a person’s state of mind, what he or she was thinking that day, what mood they were in. If you are adept at reading such things then an ensemble can reveal about 50 per cent of somebody’s personality.

How much do you think brands and labels actually matter?
It does matter to a certain extent. It’s a style statement and adds a touch of class. Wearing brands is not a necessity; but it’s about the feel-good factor. Personally, I’m not a label lover. I can wear non-branded stuff and make it look stunning because that’s my job as a model and an actor. It’s in poor taste to use brands as a gateway to show off. There’s no doubt that branded clothes are most comfortable and assure a great fit. But it’s a matter of individual choice. The labels alone do not lure me; it’s about how the garment looks on me. Style is all about exuding that inner confidence complemented by a good physique.

What kind of a shopper are you? Do you shop on impulse, or do you look out for things in particular while shopping?
I’m a very thoughtful shopper. I draw up a list of things I need to buy and follow it very systematically. Since I detest frivolous buys, I shop cautiously and avoid impulse purchases.

Do you feel that a watch makes a statement about its wearer?
Yes, it does. A good watch spells class and elegance. It is much more than just a timepiece; it says a lot about you as a person. I’m not much of a watch person yet as I have just started building my collection. When you shake hands with someone, the first thing that anyone notices after your clothing is your watch. I always like to see a nice watch on another’s wrist as it gives me some perspective on them.

Define the importance of a watch in relation to jewellery.
Being a woman, nothing beats jewellery. In fact, watches are very much a part of women’s jewellery; an integral part of the accessory category. Watches have long been coveted as collectibles and are quite an important fashion accessory in today’s scenario. I like jewelled or bracelet-style watches. As far as jewellery is concerned, I love chunky beads for everyday wear and diamonds for special occasions.

Which watches comprise a part of your collection?
I believe in having the best. I have a list of watches that I plan on buying in the near future. As of now, I have two watches that have been gifted to me—one is from Guess and the other is Louis Pion of Paris. At home, I have a lovely wall clock, which has pictures of my childhood, my family and friends. It’s the perfect symbol of time!

If you had to create an ideal watch for yourself, what
elements would it have?
My ideal watch will be two-toned—white and gold, studded with diamonds yet masculine in style. Besides a big dial, I would also want it to have a compass. It should be a combination of Tissot and Cartier—something which is masculine, yet has a feminine touch.

Which are the watches that you aspire to own?
I like to collect good things and watches can be your best friends for your life. I am looking to fulfill my wish list in the years to come. I want to own the two-toned TAG Heuer watch, Chopard’s Happy Diamonds model, a diamond-studded Cartier watch, a Montblanc and a Tissot.

Do you think watches make good gifts?
Just like choosing the perfect phrase for a love poem, picking the perfect gift is an attempt at pouring your feelings ...into a box. I think an attractive watch is the best gift one can give. But one must know the recipient’s taste and choose the watch accordingly. I have gifted my father a Fossil watch from Dubai and presented my sister with a watch on her wedding.

What does the concept of time mean to you?
Time to me is akin to God—it marks the continued progress of our existence, and sets a universally organised manner to live in. If time is with you in a good way, you can do wonders. If it’s bad, then you have to accept it and remember, ‘this too shall pass’… Time is to be respected; once lost, it never returns. It’s very precious to me.