What is your personal style?

When it comes to outfits and accessories, simplicity seals the deal for me. The idea is to flaunt a look that’s elegant and yet goes well with the occasion, be it formal or casual. A flashy ensemble sticks out like a sore thumb at a casual event.

Five items in your closet that you can’t do without?

I would be lost without my blue jeans, formal shirts in basic colours like black and white, deodorants, a pair of stylish heeled sandals and my crêpe silk saris.

Items you haven’t worn for quite some time?

I have simply lost count of the truckloads of clothes that I could easily give away. Things that I have stopped wearing are fitted tops and jeans that I don’t fancy anymore.

What kind of a shopper are you?

No one can accuse me of being an impulsive shopper. In fact, I pick only those things that I require and go for items that will last me a long time. You won’t ever find me picking up random stuff just because I see it around me.

Your most extravagant buy has been?

Recently, I bought a pair of exquisite gold danglers with an intricate leaf pattern and stunning gold-drop embellishments.

Have money, will spend…

On a wardrobe overhaul. Having deep pockets will help me splurge on beautiful clothes every single day of the week. I may even grab several outfits for a single occasion so that I can pick and choose at leisure. It always helps to have options.

Stranded on an island, your uniform will be…

I’ll be seen in a full-sleeved white shirt to stave off a tan and a pair of capris in a bright, floral print which can’t be worn on regular days.

If there was a fire, what would you save?

I would save an outfit that I would wear when I go shopping for a new wardrobe. I would also grab my cheque-book and wallet so that I can do all that shopping.

What are your inherited treasures?

A pair of traditional Bengali kaanbalas (ornate earrings) passed down to me by my mother. She wore them at her wedding and I wore them in turn when I got married. The elaborately designed earrings have stayed with me ever since.

Who’s your style icon?

I admire the way social activist and actress Nafisa Ali has aged. She has grey streaks which she doesn’t bother to conceal and that makes her look so classy and elegant. Besides her, I think actresses Sharmila Tagore and Hema Malini carry their age really well.

Any fashion faux pas?

I have been a fashion victim on too many occasions and I can still recall one spectacular incident. Since I had never stayed in Calcutta, coming to the city always translated to shopping sprees with my cousins, who doubled up as my fashion counsellors. On one of those jaunts, I picked up this terribly loud pair of pyjamas that had bold floral prints and stripes. I teamed up that psychedelic extravaganza with a lemon yellow and blue shirt. I am sure people had to use sun shades when I was around.

(As told to Susmita Saha)