From being a celebrity stylist to a casting director and an image maker, Anila Murtaza is a woman of many talents. A professional stylist who loves her work and considers it her passion as well as her hobby. We sit down and discuss the whole journey with the styling expert as she combs through her memories as well as calling out what needs to be changed in the industry. Scroll down to check out more!
Tell us about the time you realized you wanted to be a stylist?
From childhood, I used to dress up my dolls and my cousins. Everyone in my family would always ask me for my opinion when they would get dressed up for any kind of event. Playing dress up and giving my two scents about someone’s whole look made me feel like I could help someone feel confident and secure in their look, just by giving them a few pointers and accentuate their style. When you do it for all those reasons, it gets addicting!
What were some of the challenges you had to face in the beginning?
There were a lot, but let’s just say it comes with the fact that we are a fledging industry. Stylists abroad are usually signed on to an agency or they have some sort of protection in regards to their professionalism. Over here, stylists are limited to the choices they have and we have to play with what we can get. Designers only want their best bridals to be worn by any and all celebrities. Frankly speaking I don’t believe in putting everyone in the same box. I think everyone’s style is distinct and should be played with. That’s the one challenge I face regularly – to constantly battle with the fact that different is good.
As a stylist, what is the color palette of your choice?
Call me boring or whatever, but I’m a real sucker for monochrome. It’s classic. It’s worn by some of the greats like Audrey Hepburn. It’s something you can never go wrong with and it’s always everyone’s go to when they’re feeling unsure of what colors to wear.
When choosing a look and creating a mood board, what are some of the things you have to keep in mind?
You need to keep in mind the distinctness of your client. What will suit her won’t suit someone else and vice versa. I know what my client will want to look like and how she should look like, and I play on those strengths and deliver a look that makes everyone happy.
You were the official stylist and casting director for Baaji The Film – tell us about your experience?
It was a memorable one, I’ll say that much! Working with Amna Ilyas and Meera Jee as well as the others like Osman Khalid Butt and Ali Kazmi was truly an experience.
What’s the one piece of advice you’ve always valued?
It’s something my dear friend Nomi Ansari said to me. He told me that each look I make has to tell an unforgettable story, and that with each opportunity, I should try as hard as I can to tell a new one each time.
Which international platforms do you derive inspiration from?
I look to all the international magazines like Vogue, Elle, Harpers Bazaar etc. Look at the classics and you’ll find something new to learn each time!
What is the one quality you believe all stylists should have?
They should know their clients. They shouldn’t feel pressured to put them in the same exact box as everyone else. They should have faith in their distinct styles and play around with them.
Who are some of your favorite clients to work with?
I can’t pick just one! I love working with all of them!
Aside from styling, is there anything else you feel you’d like to pursue?
Styling is my first and only love, and I can’t leave it even if I tried!
What’s the one thing you’d like to change in the industry?
There’s a lot that needs to improve. But we are a young industry with a long way to go, and I would suppose the thing I’d most like to change would be how stylists are seen. They aren’t just a mouthpiece for a designer and a celebrity, they are artists with a vision. We sculpt a look from our imaginations and we do whatever it takes to make it look better and better with each new idea. This current outlook is stifling our ability to be creative.
What are some of your favorite places to travel?
Hands down Thailand and Turkey. I leave each place happier and at peace.
Winter or Spring Fashion? Which do you prefer?
Winter for sure! I can play around with a lot of different sweaters and coats and scarves.
From styling shoots to films to ad commercials, what do you do in your leisure time?
I just watch TV and have my coffee to relax me. The hectic noise of each project just goes away when I get lost in a movie or a show. I also love cooking too, that gives me peace.
What’s next for you?
Stay tuned everyone! You’ll be the first to know.