On-Set Wardrobes | What Ishwak Singh, Tulsi Kumar, Shilpa Rao and Farhan Akhtar Wear To Work

From his breakout role as Imran Ansari in Paatal Lok (2020) to his nuanced portrayal of Vikram Sarabhai in Rocket Boys (2022), Ishwak Singh has been charming audiences both on screen and off. In real life, the actor’s approach to dressing involves timeless combinations with a slight twist.

Everyday Uniform

Singh keeps his regular workday wardrobe clean and uncomplicated: “Black T-shirts, denims, and sneakers.”

Supportive Sneakers

“A good pair of sneakers with proper arch support,” is his go-to. He values them for comfort and functionality, especially during long hours and being constantly on the move.

Closet Classics

Singh treasures his Dior shirts along with jackets from Paul Smith and other luxury fashion houses that he enjoys preserving. “A large part of my wardrobe is special to me because I’ve collected pieces over the years,” he says.

Signature Accessories

“A nice watch completes the look,” he says. Along with watches, he likes wearing solid silver rings and silver chains with dog tag pendants.

Tulsi Kumar, the voice behind “Tum Jo Aaye” from Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai (2010) and “O Saki Saki” from Batla House (2019), blends glamour with practicality. Known for chart-topping singles, her personal style isn’t about chasing trends.

Polished Basics

Kumar prefers oversized shirts, well-fitted denims, structured jackets and classic basics that transition easily from meetings to studio sessions. She swears by her Salvatore Ferragamo classic nude pumps, saying, “They’re elegant, timeless, and incredibly comfortable.”

Collector’s Piece

“One of the most treasured pieces in my wardrobe has to be my vintage Dolce & Gabbana headphones that were created as part of a special collection,” Kumar shares. Recently, she also bought a classic Birkin bag.

Statement Extras

“I love statement accessories, especially necklaces,” she says. Lately, she has been styling the bold Louis Vuitton LV Edge Necklace and her Fendi baguette neckpiece to elevate even the simplest looks.

Known for songs such as “Chaleya” from Jawan (2023) and “Besharam Rang” from Pathaan (2023), Shilpa Rao is a hit maker. Functional, comfortable and understated, her wardrobe is shaped around the realities of studio sessions and long concert hours.

Studio Staples

“If it’s a studio session, comfort and something to keep you warm is necessary,” Rao says. Her ideal work look includes a pair of denims, a sweatshirt and a jacket that allows easy movement.

Performance Sneakers

Comfortable sneakers are non-negotiable for Rao. She frequently wears pairs from Nike, Tongs and Hamster London, especially for concerts and travel. “I’m on stage wearing them for two or three hours and I don’t feel a thing,” she says.

Inherited Keepsakes

Her mother and grandmother’s saris are the most treasured pieces in her wardrobe because of their deep emotional connection.

Less Is More

Rao prefers accessories that complement an outfit, not overpower it. “If you have a great watch, wear it. It’s a statement in itself,” she says.

A force in Indian cinema, Farhan Akhtar is good at everything. But Akhtar’s the director, writer, producer, actor and singer who’s also great at styling himself. “Fashion questions? I’m your guy,” he says with a laugh.

Casual Staples

“I’m never really styled,” Akhtar says. “I love buying my own clothes and dress very, very casually.” He leans towards jeans and T-shirts from brands like Buck Mason and AllSaints for everyday wear, while Yohji Yamamoto is his go-to when he wants to buy something more special.

Functional Sneakers

“I know people who are completely insane about sneakers and collect them. I don’t,” he says. Still, sneakers are his everyday choice over any other kind of shoe.

Sentimental Keepsake

“The most treasured thing, though I won’t wear it, is a T-shirt with a heart painted on it and signed by my older daughter when she was a child,” he shares.

Minimal Extras

“This is the jewellery that I wear, my wedding ring,” Akhtar says. While he occasionally wears something around his neck, he prefers keeping accessories understated and always wears a watch.

SHOE CAM

Ishwak Singh: “HOKA trainers — ultra-cushioned performance shoes designed for comfort, support, and all-day ease.”

Tulsi Kumar: “A stunning pair of Hermès boots.”

Shilpa Rao: “A pair of mojaris, because it’s the summer and you’re doing a lot of kurtas in cotton and mul mul and linen.”

Farhan Akhtar: “I love my pair of Brooks Running shoes [to wear everyday]. It’s supremely comfortable and if my meeting goes bad, I can always go for a run!”