Filmfare Exclusive: Tabu on Timeless Style, Fashion Risks and Carrying Elegance With Ease

Tabu has remained relevant in the film industry for over three decades now. The actress has given us some of the most loved and cherished characters in cinema. However, one thing we adore about her, apart from her acting skills, is her elegance and the way she carries herself with aplomb. We catch up with Tabu on a rainy day as she gears up to shoot with us in a joyous mood. She radiates confidence and class, and is quick to answer our questions on style and fashion.

Which was your first-ever red carpet look?

This was when I received my Debut Award at Filmfare. I wore an ethnic ensemble by Tarun Tahiliani. I didn’t do hair or make-up, nothing. I just wore the outfit.

A designer you blindly trust for your looks?

Neeta Lulla. She was my go-to designer. She had the best eye and was super talented. She made several actresses look like divas with ease. And I trusted her too.

One on-screen look that’s etched in your mind?

I remember watching Erin Brockovich and Julia Roberts, thinking, “Wow, this is like a fashion statement.”

Tell us about the first time you styled yourself for an event?

You know, I used to always style myself for events. We didn’t have stylists back then. I used to style myself for everything. So many times, I’d hurriedly pull something out of the cupboard and not know what to do with it. I also wore my mother’s sarees for a lot of events.

Your ultimate splurge-worthy accessory?

Watches.

What would you wear at the following holiday destinations?

Paris: Trench coats and boots

Jaipur: Cotton churidars and suits

Maldives: All kinds of pretty dresses

What would you wear during the following events?

Press conference: A shirt dress or jeans with a formal top

Friend’s sangeet: Salwar kameez

A day off: Flowy dress

Fashion week appearance: There’d be so many choices, I’d be confused and call a stylist.

Which fashion era do you most relate to?

I think this one, where we currently are.

How has your style evolved over the years?

I was always conscious of my style sense. For me, style is more important than fashion.

Do you think fashion and age are related?

I feel there are no rules. One should wear what they feel like, because rules are made by us. I don’t know about fashion but style has no age. People are either stylish or they’re not. Some people are born stylish and some cultivate it.

Comfort or couture?

Comfort, for sure.

A red carpet hack that helps you slay?

Wear what compliments you, without trying too hard. And never let your discomfort show in any way. However beautiful or expensive the clothes are, if you don’t look comfortable in them, it defeats the whole purpose of fashion and style.

Describe your personal style in three words.

Easy, aesthetic and sensible.

Your go-to outfit?

A pair of jeans and a flowy top.