Prasad Bidappa expresses his take on his ideal catwalk queen, Chennai's fashion scene and modelling as a career:
How is it being called a style guru?
Well, I would like to call myself an image consultant.
‘Style guru’ is just a fancy title. I run an advertising agency, which coordinates fashion shows and I’m a fashion photographer too. In between all this, I find time to hunt for fresh talent.
Your take on modelling as a career in India?
It is difficult to choose models in India. Because, we are grounded to our culture and have misconceptions about modelling as a career. Even girls who hail from well-to do families are restricted from entering this profession. According to me, modelling is not an easy job and it has its own pros and cons. But mostly, girls from middle class families consider this career to be a mainstream one, and strive hard to be super models.
On choosing your catwalk queen?
Looking at someone, I can tell you if she can be a model. She has to be unique. Women in India lack the right height. And designer clothes look better on taller women.
But Indian women have a beauty that is unseen in any other country. They have a unique complexion and are voluptuous, which is sexy.
Does the glam factor get fake at times?
Well, I’m not a victim. And I believe modelling has gone a long way and has nothing to do with being fake. It’s a serious job and we are serious people. Talking about the wannabes, they are there everywhere.
Your take on Chennai choreographers?
They have a long way to go. When you do the choreography, you should listen to your designers. I worked under Jeanne Naoroji, she was one of the popular choreographers in the 60’s. She inspired me a lot. Choreography is not like a dance movement, it’s more about displaying the designers’ work.
Chennai women?
I love Chennai women, they are bright and focused. They have huge knowledge about what’s happening around them. And like we all know, dusky women are hot. (winks)
Fashion in Chennai?
Fashion in Chennai is conservative.
The textile industry is the greatest, but they have to translate to the style of the younger generation. Also, people in Chennai have a classy fashion sense and they know how to carry it out well.