Kritika Kamra on fashion: 'I dress for myself, not for approval'
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Actress Kritika Kamra says dressing up is a deeply personal act driven by self-confidence rather than external validation. Speaking to IANS, the Fashion Communication graduate from a New Delhi design school revealed that her approach to style is rooted in understanding the craft of fashion, not chasing trends or public perception.
Fashion as Personal Expression
"This is something I realized very early on in life, that I enjoy dressing up. I do it for myself," Kamra said. "It makes a difference to my day, to my confidence." The actress emphasised that her wardrobe choices are instinctive and tied to how clothing impacts her mindset rather than how others perceive her appearance.
Understanding the Craft
Her formal training in fashion communication has shaped her perspective on clothing. "I'm excited about how my clothes are made or, you know, I know what it takes to make a certain textile or what kind of work goes into the making of anything I wear. So, I'm usually really curious about that," Kamra explained. This deeper engagement with fashion mechanics sets her apart from trend-followers who chase seasonal styles without understanding their origins.
Whose Approval Matters
While aware of fashion trends, Kamra draws her primary validation from women around her rather than the broader public gaze. "Because I'm a fashion enthusiast. But I have always dressed up for myself. And if anything, I think the approval I enjoy most is the approval of my girlfriends or women in general, because we look at fashion in a very different way, and we have that eye for detail," she said. "I've never dressed to please anybody."
Collaboration Without Compromise
Working with designers and stylists in the entertainment industry has enriched her aesthetic without diluting her personal vision. "I get to work with very talented people, incredible designers and stylists, so my job gives me that privilege. I'm really inspired by their work, but when I put a look together, I think it's more instinctive," Kamra noted. She described her involvement in styling decisions as active and intentional, driven by genuine enthusiasm rather than obligation.
The Instinct Factor
Kamra concluded that her fashion choices remain instinctive despite industry exposure. "I am very involved in the process of putting my look together with my team. I am very instinctive about it because I do enjoy this a lot," she said, underscoring that authentic passion — not external pressure — drives her sartorial decisions.